The Official WSN Newsletter: Connecting Women to Success

Spring 2025 Edition

Dear Ladies,


March is widely recognized as Women’s History Month, and this year, it was impossible to miss the conversations happening everywhere—from social media and the news to discussions among colleagues—people were celebrating the contributions of women throughout history. While I believe this recognition should extend beyond just one month, it has given me an opportunity to reflect on the incredible support, unity, and inspiration I have experienced while working with the women of the WSN. Their unwavering dedication to our community, through initiatives like The Purse Project and the Yellow Tulip Project, exemplifies their commitment to making a difference. They openly share their challenges and diverse experiences with the hopes of inspiring and empowering future women leaders in business. Being part of this network is a privilege and a blessing. Though the Blackstone Valley is just a small piece of a vast world, I have no doubt that the women in this community are driving meaningful change—just as countless women have done throughout history. Cheers to celebrating the Women of the WSN!

 

Warm regards,

Alise Breton

Chairwoman, Women’s Success Network

WHAT'S HAPPENING

Upcoming Events

WSN Quarterly Meeting

April 17, 2025 | 5:30pm-7:00pm

Whitinsville, MA

Join the WSN for our next Quarterly Meeting discussion on Leading Through Change: Understanding VUCA and Thriving in Uncertainty!


Building on the powerful leadership conversation we began in our last session, our upcoming quarterly meeting will explore the VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous) world we’re navigating today—one defined by rapid change, constant disruption, and growing complexity. This session is designed to deepen our collective understanding of leadership in today’s world while empowering us to show up with confidence and compassion—even when the path isn’t clear. Whether you’re navigating career shifts, organizational changes, or personal transitions, this conversation will offer insight, support, and practical takeaways. Let’s keep the momentum going—and continue being the leaders our world needs.

Learn More & Register Here!

WSN Ladies On The Lake

June 12, 2025 | 6:00pm-8:00pm

Webster Lake

Join the BVCC’s Women’s Success Network as we set sail aboard the beautiful Indian Princess on Webster Lake!


This highly anticipated event features a fabulous evening of networking, quintessential hors d'oeuvres, cocktails and spectacular views. Docked at Indian Ranch, the Indian Princess is a modern day replica of the river boats once seen cruising the Mississippi River. She is one of the few authentic riverboats left in the United States today, using her stern wheels as her only means of propulsion. Cruise with your crew for a unique voyage not to forget!


Registration coming soon!


WHAT'S HAPPENED

WSN January 2025 Quarterly Meeting

Whitinsville, MA

The WSN kicked off the year with their first Quarterly Meeting in January at Hebert Hall, in partnership with the Blackstone Valley Hub. Around 45 women came together to explore the evolving meaning of leadership. Guided by Lynne Turner of Core XP Business Solutions and Joscelyn Young, Vice President of the Blackstone Valley Hub, attendees shared personal stories and experiences—reflecting on their own leadership journeys and the inspiring leaders who influenced them. The group also introduced an exciting new Mentorship Program, set to launch later this year.

WSN at the BVCC's 25th Home & Community Expo

Whitinsville, MA

Did you stop by the WSN table at the 25th Anniversary BVCC's Home & Community Expo? We were there, connecting with attendees and spreading the word about our network! Our amazing volunteers spent the day meeting new faces and introducing the WSN to local professionals. We love an opportunity to engage and collaborate with fellow businesswomen and our community!

WSN Purse Project

Blackstone Valley

The WSN recently wrapped up our second Purse Project collection! This week, our team has been hard at work collecting and sorting through generous donations. Several non-profit organizations across the Blackstone Valley have already received their purses. Check out these photos of our amazing volunteers in action! Special thank you to our site collectors: Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce, Grafton Country Store, Millbury Federal Credit Union, UniBank and the Whitin Community Center.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS

Danielle Desrosiers

Owner, The Green Plate at Home


My name is Danielle Desrosiers and I own The Green Plate at Home. In 2014, I started my business creating healthy, flavorful 100% gluten free meals. A few years later, I was ready to open my café and I reached out to the BVCC. I was given advice and direction on building my business plan and applying for financing. In 2017, I opened my cafe on Church St, Whitinsville. It seemed like there were many other women owned businesses opening in the area and I took advantage of collaborating with them and built many relationships. I have always felt that women owned businesses tend to empower each other. While focusing on our own growth and improvement, it is wonderful to have like-minded women support and build each other up. I am grateful that the BVCC has a branch WSN, dedicated to women owned businesses, I feel this is so important, especially in the valley. 


In September of 2024, I restructured the business.  Although the café is closed to the public, I still prepare menu items that anyone can enjoy, while allowing peace of mind to those with dietary restrictions and allergies. With a little planning, you can enjoy many of the same items, along with a number of rotating new items. Think of it like Hello Fresh (except you do not need to prep anything).   Everything is still 100% gluten free, with many vegan/vegetarian and dairy free options. From fresh or frozen options, breakfast, bowls, pizzas, smoothies, salads and wraps and more. You do NOT need to subscribe, although those who do will receive a discount. Whether you are looking for a meal to enjoy for lunch one day or for the week, you won’t be disappointed. Meals are made fresh day of pickup or delivery. Frozens are prepared fresh and frozen, ready for you to thaw and heat when you are ready. I invite you to take a look at the new website, and follow me on Facebook or Instagram. https://thegreenplateathome.com.  You can reach me at orders@thegreenplateathome.com with any questions. I look forward to preparing your meals so you don’t have to!


Danielle Desrosiers

Owner, The Green Plate at Home

Jamie Burke

Owner, District V House


My name is Jamie Burke, and I’m the owner of District V House, a home lifestyle retail store located in the village of Manchaug in Sutton, Massachusetts. My background is in interior design owning District V Design. Growing up in Worcester, Massachusetts, in District 5, everything I learned about design and wanting to open a store came from the people, places, and things that shaped that community. I bring that knowledge and inspiration into my store every day, and it’s really about sharing a little bit of District V wherever I go. 


When I was first looking for a retail space, I couldn’t find the perfect location in Worcester, so after the pandemic, I decided to broaden my search. I stumbled upon an ad for a space “near Worcester,” drove out to Sutton, and instantly fell in love with the building. It was a bit of a leap because my whole network had always been based in Worcester, but the support I’ve received from the Sutton community has been incredible and rewarding.


District V House offers a curated mix of antique, vintage, artisan, and new items, with under 15 vendors filling our 4,000-square-foot space. Each vendor has their own unique style, and we’ve worked to create a store that’s not just a shop, but an experience. After three years of running the business, I’ve gained a solid grasp on day-to-day operations and logistics. Now, I’m eager to take the next step—reaching more customers, expanding our exposure, and connecting with fellow business owners.


Continue reading here!


Jamie Burke

Owner, District V House

FROM THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

The Power of Mentoring

Why Relationships Shape The Leaders of Tomorrow


At the Women's Success Network, we know that leadership is built on relationships — the kind that inspire, guide, and open doors to new possibilities. That's why we are so excited to launch our new mentorship program for school-age girls, connecting them with women in business to explore what leadership, career growth, and success can look like.



As we prepare to step into these meaningful connections, it’s important to reflect on what mentoring really is — and what it is not. Too often, people confuse mentoring, coaching, and managing, but each serves a very different purpose. Understanding these differences helps us show up in the right ways for the girls — and for each other — as we continue building a supportive and thriving network.


Continue Reading Here!

Lynn Whitney Turner

Owner, Core Business XP Solutions

GET INVOLVED...

WSN MISSION

The Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce Women’s Success Network unites women to achieve their vision of success by creating a community of support and inspiration in their personal and professional lives.

 

The Women's Success Network (WSN) is a committee of the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce (BVCC).

 

Join our committee and help execute the WSN programs, projects and initiatives! Our volunteers play a crucial role in the success of the WSN by offering their time, skills and energy. We are women committed to our mission! For more information about the WSN or to become a volunteer, please email Alise Breton at www.millburycu.com.


Learn More Here!

JOINING THE CHAMBER HAS ITS REWARDS!

View BVCC's Weekly Newsletter!
View BVCC's Website!

Joining The Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce Has Its Rewards

The WSN is a networking group of the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce. If you are not already a member of the Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce, we encourage you to join. When you become a member of the Chamber, a world of opportunities and benefits open up to you.


  • Education & Training
  • Business Services
  • Legislative Advocate
  • Exclusive Connections
  • Credibility
  • Industry Roundtables
  • Advertising
  • Networking
  • Chamber Event & Programs
  • Business Counseling & more!


The Chamber's #1 priority is to help you!


Serving Northbridge, Grafton, Sutton, Millbury, Uxbridge, Douglas, Millville, Mendon, Hopedale, Upton & Blackstone.


Click here to learn more about membership!

Click here to view Top 10 Benefits why you should join the BVCC!

UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

Learn More & Register Here!
Learn More & Register Here!

NETWORKING HAPPENINGS

BVCC 2024-2025 Sponsorship Catalog

 

When you sponsor a BVCC Event you are increasing your marketing and exposure to the Blackstone Valley's businesses, local residents, and potential customers! Take your marketing to the next level with unique sponsorship opportunities with the Chamber!

 

Please click the button below, or contact us at 508.234.9090 for more information.

Learn More Here!
Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce
670 Linwood Avenue, Building A, Suite 5, Whitinsville, MA 01588
508.234.9090 | www.BlackstoneValley.org
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BVCC Mission
The Blackstone Valley Chamber of Commerce is to preserve and enhance the economic vitality of the Blackstone Valley by addressing the needs and concerns of businesses and providing leadership, support and resources in connection with issues which impact commerce and the quality of life in the Valley.