The well-worn cliché of turning life's lemons into lemonade is often little consolation for people whose careful plans have just gone disastrously wrong. But for those who choose to follow its advice, the old saw can be invaluable. When Kyle Paxman, originally of Barre, Vermont, found out that her fiancé was being unfaithful, she called off the elegant wedding she had been planning for months and began to cancel the arrangements: the band, the photographer, the florist. But some of the contracts were non-refundable, including those for the food, drinks and rooms.

Many people faced with this situation might have quietly paid the charges and moved on. But on the suggestion of her mother, Patricia Carbee, Kyle decided to turn her ruined plans into a joyous occasion. Using her reservations at the Basin Harbor Club, where the wedding would have taken place, Kyle organized a charity event for 125 people, including many of the former wedding guests, to celebrate strong women and raise money for two organizations, the Vermont Children's Aid Society and CARE.

Kyle was familiar with the first charity, but had never heard of CARE until she saw our "Natural Resource" video on TV shortly after she began planning the event. The 60-second spot highlights the ability of women to create lasting change in their communities, and its message of empowerment struck a chord with Kyle. "It was the most powerful commercial I've ever seen," she said. "I knew then that I had found my other cause."

The event was a great success. The four-course dinner was followed by toasts and speeches, and staff from CARE spoke about our work and presented Kyle with a framed portrait of women we work with in India, a gift we hope will remind her of the joy she is bringing to women around the world. The evening included a silent auction and a donation box to benefit the two charities. At the end of the night, Kyle and her mother counted up the checks: They had raised over $20,000 for the two organizations.

CARE donors demonstrate their power to help others on a daily basis, despite the challenges and obstacles they may face in their own lives. Kyle had the courage to turn her own setback into a chance to support other women in difficult circumstances, and we salute her strength, initiative and generosity.

Your gift to CARE helps women and families in poor countries lift themselves out of poverty. Click here to donate now.