The Third Annual Power of the Purse Dinner and Auction, now a Portland tradition, raised more than $170,000 and drew more than 600 local celebrities, designers, community leaders, supporters, and volunteers for an evening of fashion and fundraising to benefit Girls Inc. of Northwest Oregon.

The sold-out event auctioned handbags, designed by local celebrities and designers, that sold for as much $6,000 for a one-of-a-kind Gail Jubitz/Karen Malloy evening bag (pictured below) inspired by an antique Chinese snuff bottle and made from an Antique Chinese robe. Another Power of the Purse celebrity, former Portland Trailblazer Jerome Kersey, warmly presented the bag he designed to the winner, one of his biggest fans who paid $2,000 for the one-of-a-kind, autographed messenger bag. In addition to the amazing crowd and fabulous bags, it was obvious that each celebrity warmly connected with their partnering Girls Inc. girl. Many gave their girl tokens of appreciation ranging from a bouquet of fresh flowers, to a handmade, Native American feather necklace.

2008 Power of the Purse Handbags

Photos from Power of the Purse 2008