5 Dedicated Organizations Working To Support Women
Over the years, there have been numerous efforts to address the issue of gender inequality in and out of the workplace, but there's still a long way to go. Luckily, there are many groups dedicated to empowering women around the world, helping them prosper in their chosen professions. In no particular order, here are some organizations providing women with the support and resources they need to succeed.
First up, at #1, we have the Women's Foundation of Colorado, which aims to advance and accelerate economic opportunities for women and their families in the region. The group's premier event is its Annual Luncheon, which raises funds for foundations and brings together community, civic, and business leaders who support the organization's mission.
The foundation's WAGES program employs research, public policy advocacy, and strategic grantmaking to help Colorado women reach economic security. In 1987, the group also created the Dottie Lamm Leadership Award, which recognizes individuals committed to advancing and accelerating opportunities for women throughout the Centennial State.
Coming in at #2 is the National Indigenous Women's Resource Center, a nonprofit dedicated to ending violence against Native women and children. The organization addresses gender-based violence in tribal communities by lifting the voices of grassroots advocates and providing culturally-grounded resources, training, and policy development.
Among its resources is Restoration magazine, which seeks to inform tribal leaders and advocates about emerging issues that affect the safety of American Indian and Alaska Native women. One of the organization's initiatives is NativeLove, which is focused on addressing dating violence and promoting healthy relationships.
Next up, at #3, we have the Women’s Center. Founded in 1974, it is dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of individuals and families through education, support, and advocacy. Among its programs is Break the Cycle, which provides various services, including crisis intervention, trauma-informed counseling, and referrals to community resources.
It hosts an annual Leadership Conference, where hundreds of corporate and community members come together to hear stories of how inspirational figures have responded to challenges in both their personal and professional life. The organization also offers various services for those who need help in seeking employment or changing career paths.
Taking the #4 spot is the Women's Earth Alliance, a global initiative that aims to catalyze grassroots women-led solutions to protect the environment and strengthen communities around the world. The organization's leaders work at the intersection of various issues, such as food and agriculture, economics, education, and waste management.
The organization's Grassroots Accelerator is an opportunity for leaders to gain the skills, tools, knowledge, and networks they need to accelerate their impact. Through its curriculum, participants get the support and resources necessary to improve on and scale their existing projects that meet the needs of their regions.
Finally, at #5, we have the Alliance of Women Directors, an inclusive collective of directors working together to create positive change in the entertainment industry and advocate for gender parity. Members of the group become part of its database, which is used by producers and production companies.
Through the organization's Rising Director Fellowship, members can participate in mentoring opportunities, workshops, and panels; they are also introduced to industry professionals who may provide career support. Among its other programs is Peer-to-Peer Shadowing, where budding filmmakers are connected with more established directors and shadow them on movies, commercials, music videos, or even web series.