Lori Gaff has always had an aptitude for helping others — especially women. In 2001, she was involved with the Evolving Women Foundation which provides mentoring and support for young women who want to improve their personal performance and excel within their professional field as well. Today, she is the president of NH Business and Professional Women which strives to be an advocate for women within legislation. Lori is one of the many who fight for equal pay, flex time, healthcare, and flexibility for working families. The networking group services a wide range of people including professional men and women as well as legislation members.

But Lori did not fall into this career naturally – she worked for it. Lori grew up in Saugus, Massachusetts, and was raised by two alcoholic parents. She finished high school under the supervision of her grandmother in Weymouth, MA, and received her GED by attending night classes. "I had a rough childhood," she said. "I did not have good role models as parents." But that did not stall Lori in her pursuit of success.

"I had youth counselors as my role models growing up," she said. "They helped me realize I could be someone. Without those mentors, I wouldn't be who I am today."

As she got older, she found that her greatest need was to give back the same support she had received as a young person. "Young people in communities need people in their community for role models. And I wanted to make a difference."

Since finding her calling, she has mentored countless women. Just six or so years ago, Lori recalled a homeless woman that was receiving location rehabilitation services and living in a makeshift tent by the river. "I would worry about her. I used to go down there and see if we could find her and make sure she was alive. I began working with the disability rights center to help find her a place to live."

At the time, Lori ran her own training program for rehabilitation purposes. The lady by the river graduated from the program and was not heard of for five years. However, just last year Lori received a phone call. The same woman who once lived in a tent by the river had a job. She had a home. She owned a car. And she was working for a social services agency in Concord, NH. And that afternoon she called Lori just to say thank you.

That's the greatest reward of all, Lori says. "For me, it's about seeing them successful. All I care about is helping people overcome their barriers so they can see outside of what they know."

The challenge of overcoming the barriers is in the process. "Sometimes it is hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. You have to surround yourself with positive role models," she said, reflecting on the influence of her own childhood mentors.

She tells everyone that change comes from within. "Nobody is going to change you. You can't change what happens around you. Take that strength within yourself. And don't take on other people's problems. Women are nurturers by natural instinct. We need to realize, as we grow, that we need to be careful with that instinct. We can't take it all on ourselves." This is one of the many reasons why she encourages a mentor relationship.

In that same regard, NH Federation of Business and Professional Women use the same type of model for their success. They rely on a weave of individual women across the nation to appeal for women's rights and interests. With a tapestry of support, they are able to elevate the standards for women in business, promote the interests of the professional woman, bring about a spirit of co-operation among business women within the United States, and extend education opportunities to women across the nation.

Currently, the group has over 100 members. However, previously the numbers reached into the thousands. But due to the curve in the economy and overwhelmed schedules, membership rates have dropped, making that the greatest challenge the networking group faces.

But despite the challenges, the NH sector of Business and Professional Women are still able to advocate for legislation, give away $2500 dollars every year in scholarships, offer programs for those looking to complete their GED, and raise money through events such as wine tastings and holiday auctions.

So whom does Lori credit for where she is today? "I credit myself," she said. "Because I am the one who makes decisions and the choices." Though she is deeply appreciative of her counselors for providing guidance, she ultimately made the decision to move forward with her life. She resolved that her childhood would not dictate her future.

It is a decision everyone must make. And as Lori says, if you choose to move forward, "You can empower people too."

For more information about the NH Federation of Business and Professional Women, visit www.bpwnh.org or contact Lori Gaff directly at lorigaff@comcast.net

For more Inspirational Women article or articles on different topics visit the Applaud Women Library.