About Fresh Start

ABOUT FRESH START

Our Vision

To create unlimited opportunities for women.

Our nonprofit organization helps women 18 and up focus on key areas of their lives, with a wide range of services, classes and workshops designed to teach self-confidence, life skills and career development. 

Our Mission

To provide access and resources that help women achieve self-sufficiency and use their strength to thrive.

Meet Our Founders, Pat and Beverly

Fresh Start is all about women helping women, and it’s been a true passion project for founders and sisters, Pat Petznick and Beverly Stewart*. Pat and Beverly watched their grandmother become the sole support of their family and vowed to one day support women who found themselves in similar circumstances.

Over the years, the Arizona natives became ardent community activists on behalf of women. In 1992, Pat and Beverly were in a position to personally and professionally reach out to women in need and initially offered a day of pampering each month at the salon they co-owned, inviting 20 women to boost their confidence and self-esteem. Later that year, Fresh Start Women’s Foundation was officially born.

Pat Petznick and Beverly Stewart*

We’re supported by three boards:

• Board of Directors – sets policy and governs the foundation
• Auxiliary Board – supports the organization through outreach services throughout the community and by hosting Fresh Start's Sip & Soirée 
• Men’s Board – raises money by hosting the Fresh Start Charity Golf Classic

Women come to us from a number of different situations. Some are recently divorced or separated. Others are unemployed, or simply looking for a new start on life. They’re looking for a friendly face, helpful guidance and a chance to become the woman they know they can be—all in a place where they can feel safe. And that’s why we’re here, over 30 years later!

*In Loving Memory - We honor and remember Beverly, who passed away in 2023 after a lifetime of passionate service and championing women,