The She Change

Authentically global means both a global strategy and philosophy but also a local context

2011-04-04T15:12:00.000-07:00

Being authentically global means that an organization has a strategy, staff and a philosophy and integrity that works globally but adapts to the local context and the needs and values in the communities it works in.

Women Win is a young organisation, whose mission is to advance girls’ and women’s rights through the sport. The ways in which we try to “walk the talk” of being authentically global:

1. Our ethos -- listening to girls, letting them lead us, inherently makes us global...as they are a global group. We don't pretend to be the experts, we recognize GIRLS as the most important voice to listen to. We support 15.000 number of adolescent girls in programs in 20 countries.

2. How we collect best practices and cross pollinate: Related to girls knowing the answers to their own problems....are the guidelines and tools we co-create with program partners. Collaboratively authored in the field with 35 contributors, The International Guideline for Designing Sport Programmes for Girls, seeks to answer the question: How do we develop effective, sustainable sport programmes for girls and women? We then created an open-source platform, that seeks the wisdom of others in the field, encourages the sharing of experiences and connects with the global community of activists dedicated to this work.    www.girlssportguides.org

3. How we work through strategic partnerships especially about mobilizing resources. We seek to help the traditional funder relationship evolve through forging partnerships...and helping our program partners do the same. We seek to build a global movement -- and using social media to do this.   For International Women’s Day 2011, Women Win released a video – Addressing Gender Based Violence Through Sport – highlighting learning’s gathered worldwide.

Addressing gender-based violence through sport from WomenWin on Vimeo.

Cindy Coltman, Program Director

Women Win

Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Women's Funding Network member since 2007

Alliances can produce synergies that benefit everyone involved

2011-03-31T16:49:00.001-07:00

Fondo Alquimia has built alliances with various sectors of Chilean society. Our concept is that similar to people, organizations have causes in common with others that can produce synergies that benefit everybody that is involved. Last year, with the earthquake lived in Chile, people became conscious about the importance of alliances, we all wanted to help and we looked for ways to coordinate this aid so that all places and different needs were met.

Our links are undoubtedly closer to the women's and feminist movement who is our place of belonging. We also have alliances with other organizations in the various social movements and trade union; we stand in solidarity with their demands and in turn summon them to support the demands of women.

We have dialogues with some universities, especially in relation to our experience in resource mobilization through our individual donors network 'Women Trusting Women', also for them to know about the work the grassroots organizations of the multiplicity of women activists working for women's human rights.

Some medium-sized enterprises which are sensitive to women’s cause collaborate with us giving in kind donations for our fundraising events. Similarly, other human rights and environmental NGOs call us to their events. We also have contacts with local governments that have progressive mayors who are interested in the advancement of women and their organizations.

As for religions as such, we are not related, however, we have conversations with women 'free thinkers' (masons) with whom we shared interests in positioning some issues related to equal rights of Chilean women. It is noteworthy that from march 2010, after the arrival of a right-wing government, has increased the interest in making alliances among organizations, including mainstream demands, which has meant a boom in people participation.

The actions undertaken with others have greater visibility and influence because they reach more people, have greater validity because there are several actors involved, and are more effective because they are complementary, leading to specialization of function. Undoubtedly, the sharing of common experiences enriches the knowledge of all participants and the value of solidarity is enlarged.

We cannot miss the risks, such as unlimited enthusiasm… So, it is advisable to establish partnerships with clear frameworks, i.e. we should be clear about energies available, the way the alliance is inserted into the work plan and maintain identities clear as mission and values.

Sara Mandujano, Executive Coordinator

Fondo Alquimia

Santiago, Chile

Women's Funding Network member since 2002

The advantages and risks of building strategic partnerships

2011-03-31T16:49:00.000-07:00

Right now, for the first time during its existence, the Women’s Fund in Georgia is in the process of hiring a full-time fundraiser for individual and corporate giving. In the end of January we conducted a number of interviews with shortlisted candidates who applied for the position. One of the best candidates emphasized the need to network with the Georgian Orthodox Christian Church – without doubt the most influential religious institution in the country – along with other institutions and agencies in order to improve the visibility of the fund and gain more supporters and stakeholders.

Since its establishment in 2005 Women’s Fund in Georgia has had tight links with women’s groups as well as various donor agencies inside and outside Georgia, including donor spaces like Women’s Funding Network, International Network of Women’s Funds and Grantmakers Without Borders. However, the level of networking and collaboration outside the donor and civil society sector has not been significant till now, not including several brief intersections.

In December 2010, in the frames of the strategic planning process our team conducted a self-assessment survey with a specialized questionnaire that was sent to WFG’s stakeholders – grantees, applicants, supporters, women’s rights and human rights groups in Georgia. The analysis of the results showed us that the main recommendation of the fund’s stakeholders was to increase WFG’s visibility in order to make it more known and popular among the public.

This is very much connected to the current fundraising and PR aims of the fund since we have started a project for increasing the amount of local donors – both corporate and individual. In order to raise more funds locally WFG faces a need to be more visible, more popular and better at delivering its message to the society. Certainly, the question of networking (formal or informal) with various agencies and institutions outside the sector becomes important.

However, one has to be very careful in choosing allies. On the one hand, forming networks with powerful religious institutions can be beneficial because of the influence they have on the formation of people’s values and attitudes – if a women’s fund manages to influence their politics, it can also influence the public attitude towards women’s rights and philanthropy issues in a particular society. On the other hand, often, especially in such conservative countries as Georgia, religious institutions’ agendas go against women’s movements’ agenda and are oppressive and limiting towards women’s freedoms and human rights. This last point is especially relevant for Georgia, because even though, officially it is a secular state, the Georgian Orthodox Christian Church has an unquestioned power and authority, has major influence on politics, and is becoming increasingly fundamentalist.

Thus, despite the fact that Women’s Fund in Georgia acknowledges the importance of forming alliances outside the donor and women’s right sectors, it also acknowledges the risks associated with some of these potential alliances. The clearly feminist standpoint and the social change oriented vision of the fund do not allow us to collaborate with a fundamentalist religious institution that preaches sexism, homophobia and misogyny. Having said this, WFG is still open and searching for progressive religious leaders to start a constructive alliance.

Mariam Gagoshashvili, Program Coordinator
Women’s Fund in Georgia
Tblisi, Georgia
Women's Funding Network member since 2005

Networks expand our skills, knowledge and impact

2011-03-31T16:48:00.000-07:00

HER Fund believes that our work can only be successful if it is fully integrated in the women’s movements. Therefore we place great importance to developing collegial as well as solidarity relationships within local, regional and international networks.

In Hong Kong, HER Fund supports and communicates closely with the local women’s rights advocacy network, the Women's Coalition for Equal Opportunities, also our fund is the fiscal sponsor of East Asian Women’s Forum. To closely follow the development of welfare trend and building exchange with ngos, HER Fund is an agency member of the Hong Kong Council of Social Services. We also network secondary girls’ schools in Hong Kong and each year, we conduct gender awareness raising talks and workshops at schools, reaching out to girls and discussing with them on issues such as beauty image, online relationships, women’s image in media, women and poverty, with a gender perspective. This network also encourages some girls’ groups to initiate small scale fundraising activities at school for HER Fund, like rose selling on the International Women’s Day.

Regionally, HER Fund is a member of the Asian Network of Women's Funds (ANWF), together with TEWA (Nepal), Nirnaya (India), and the MONES (Mongolia), Bangladesh Women’s Fund, The Women’s Foundation ( Hong kong ) and South Asian Women’s Fund.

Internationally, the ANWF is part of the International Network of Women's Funds (INWF), and the Women’s Funding Network. We are part of the global community and the global women’s movements. Building partnerships, fostering close relationships with other women’s funds and leveraging our relationships with the women’s funds’ network tell us that we are not alone, and more, that we are part of a group of dedicated women who are fighting for women’s rights all over the world. It opens the door for us to expand our skills, our knowledge and our strength in creating impact to advance the well being of women around the world.

Linda To, Executive Director

HER Fund

Hong Kong, SAR, China

Women's Funding Network member since 2004

The Sum is Bigger than its Parts

2011-03-29T14:46:00.002-07:00

At The Women’s Foundation, our approach is to utilize existing expertise and resources within the community and to bring different partners together so that the sum is bigger than its parts. Towards this end, TWF’s work greatly emphasises collaboration and inclusion.

An example of this approach is in our recent collaboration on a project called the T.E.E.N. (Talent Empowerment, Equality and Networking) Programme - a youth leadership program for girls and boys aged 13-16 from challenged backgrounds. Partnered with two local NGOs, a government bureau, a corporate as well as a dedicated group of individual experts in community, youth, gender and leadership training, TWF serves as the intersecting point for these commercial and non-profit sectors.

Click below to hear from some of the participants in their own words:

The Mentoring Programme for Women Leaders is also a good example where the ten corporate partners are all leading proponents of diversity and inclusion. The programme gives them an opportunity for sharing best practices in terms of recruiting, training, motivating and promoting female talent. TWF also leverages the expertise of supporting partners, like the Equal Opportunities Commission, Kellogg-Hong Kong University of Science Technology and Edelman, for help in understanding the local context, developing locally relevant content, and articulating the programme's scope and aspirations to the public.

Hear from Desiree Au and Esther Tsang, mentors for the Mentoring Programme for Women Leaders.

Our collaboration with the media allows us to bring critical issues to a wider audience. In addition to participating in speaking engagements and media interviews, TWF has also launched two monthly columns on women and gender issues with leading dailies, the South China Morning Post and the Hong Kong Economic Journal website. The Women’s Foundation secures high caliber contributors for these columns from individuals with leading positions within the academic, corporate and government communities and assists with editing the pieces. It is gratifying to now be seen as a go-to point for comment by international titles like the International Herald Tribune and Newsweek, among others.

We are also about to embark on an ambitious research project to examine the status of women and girls in Hong Kong across 12 key areas including women’s political participation, women in the workplace, women and health, women and education, elderly women and girls. The project will be a partnership between Goldman Sachs, the Hong Kong Council of Social Service and the Chinese University of Hong Kong to all work together for the common good.

Here from Reginald Chua, Sophia Kao and Christine Fang, Women's Foundation stakeholders and supporters.

Integrating such a diverse array of organizations is an effective mode of executing programs because the involvement of the community from so many different sectors increases the chances of it being a long term project with a wider range of impact. This collaboration is also a way for each organization to work outside of its own goals towards a larger ideal—building trust between corporate partners and non-profits, strengthening ties between citizens and its government, and more effectively being able to grapple a complex social problem by utilizing more resources. It reminds our community that all sectors of society have a stake in the futures of our children.

The risk this interdependence poses is to balance the overlapping and sometimes contradictory interests of corporate, academic, government and non-profit organisations. However, what makes these collaborations successful is the firm conviction that we are all working towards the same goals. TWF has taken on the role of being a rallying voice for the different women's groups in Hong Kong, and the exciting thing is that we are now receiving multiple invitations to collaborate with other institutions on key initiatives. This is a real opportunity (and challenge!) to drive change in public opinion in the short run and public policy in the longer term, through collaborative efforts which ensure we truly capitalize on the opportunities we are creating.

Pui Yuk Ching, Associate Director
The Women's Foundation
Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Women's Funding Network member since 2004

Collaboration raises the visibility of your work and builds up your reputation in the community

2011-03-29T14:46:00.001-07:00

Background:
Since its founding, Tewa has always put diversity, non-hierchical working style, collective decision making, frugality and sustainability as not only as value statement but has put them in practice too. Tewa is a Philanthropic women organization and has fostered the Modern Philanthropy and successfully raised more than 20 million rupees for its grant making program through contribution of more than 300 Nepali individuals and institutional donors. Tewa commits to the empowerment and advancement of women through regular grant making to rural women group. Tewa aims to increase the self reliance of Nepali people by encouraging women and men to share their resources regularly for sustainable development and lasting peace. Tewa grant has opened doors for rural women to other opportunities, linkages and network and no doubt it has had a multiplier effect. As of now Tewa has awarded 375 grants worth more than 19 million rupees in 64 districts out of

Collaborative work:
Local Fundraising- As one of the core program, Tewa has been working closely in partnership with different institutions, private sectors such as banks, airlines, industries, schools, college etc. During our fundraising events organization has been supporting and contributing to Tewa regularly. Tewa also attempts to get support from corporations through its corporate Sector Campaign. The campaign aims to builds a sense of social responsibility amongst Nepali business people and raise funds for Tewa in the process.

Good example: For 2 years Nepal's one of the best domestic airlines Yeti Airlines Pvt. Ltd supported Tewa by allocating Rs.1/- (One Rupee) from each ticket sold in all domestic sector. Like wise there are few private banks supporting in every fundraising events and inspires us to keep up the good work

Advantage:
Due to Tewa's transparent way of working style it is an asset to Tewa to work with all our profit making donors. Once a year we also organize an event where our local donors and grantee women can interact "face to face", this is how we are accountable to our donors. Every fiscal year donor name is mentioned in our annual report and at the same time we also mention the Grantee organization with the amount of grant provided for their different project of each grant cycle in the report. We involve our donors in different working committees of Tewa and also sometime invite them in our events to chair the program and request them to handover the grant to the rural women group. This way we will be able to involve our donors in Tewa's activities and increase the visibility too. Our track records show that the practice of philanthropic giving in Nepal can be a solution to many of our problems. We are also working closely with government sector to strengthen our grant making program in rural areas to monitor the grantee groups

Risk:
Tewa always looks forward to work very closely with our donors and other organizations. Due to several organizations raising funds in local context it can risk our local fundraising effort. Since its inception as per Tewa's value we do not want to be involved in any Party Politics. While working with government sector we are very conscious in every step-In the present political context of Nepal it is very difficult due to transitional period. Decision would be delayed and as the party changes in the government it can take longer time to make them understand our work and get their trust.

Janaki Shah, Co-Coordinator

TEWA

Kathmandu, Nepal

Women's Funding Network member since 2002

Linking grantees to other changemakers increases impact and influence

2011-03-29T14:46:00.000-07:00

Background to the Women’s Fund for Scotland

The Women’s Fund for Scotland (WFS) is dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls across Scotland. Since its launch in 2002 the WFS has been funded directly from the Scottish Government through the Equalities Unit. Until recently this funding has been quite stable.

Working with the Government
We have been able to work well with the government in both delivering their objectives related to equality and ours. We have been very conscious however of gaps in this funding (no funding for younger women and girls) and the risks of working to the government’s agenda. We are also conscious of the risks of being dependent on one single source of funding for the majority of our work.

On the positive side this support has enabled us to award more than one million pounds in grants to over 500 very diverse projects, in the past 9 years. These grants have focused on supporting the development, self- sufficiency, and economic and social equality of Scotland’s women. In addition, we have been able to raise our profile across Scotland and promote the work of the groups that we support.

Multilevel Networking
Scotland is a small country (5 million people). Because of this size, we have access to and are able to meet informally with Members of the Scottish Parliament through a range of networking events. We are also able to interact with and inform local government about the wider issues affecting women in Scotland and what local groups that we fund are doing. As a result of this networking, both local government and national governmental agencies have become more aware of how our support for community groups in their areas has improved people’s lives. This also means we have had input into how government policy has met or not met women’s needs.

Facilitation of networking and collaboration
In order to increase the capacity of the groups we fund, we offered our grantees the opportunity to participate in a networking day. This enabled them to explore each others work, make new contacts and form collaborations for future work. The feedback was very positive and for many smaller organisations it was their first chance to see what groups outside their immediate geographical area were doing. We are hoping to facilitate more such events in the future.

In March 2009, we embarked on a proactive collaboration. We commissioned the Scottish Community Development Centre and Community Health Exchange to carry out research into how a range of governmental and charitable agencies work with the issue of teen-age pregnancy in the city of Dundee which has the highest teen pregnancy rate in Europe. This included investigating the determinants of teenage pregnancy such as self-esteem, confidence building and sexual health education. The research also looked at collaborative working between public sector agencies and voluntary sector organisations and the support for young people to influence strategies and activities that directly affect them. The report was distributed to all the agencies and groups in the area. The feedback was that facilitated networking and the resulting collaboration was very welcome. Again we are looking at other opportunities to engage in this role. The risk here is that we are seen as ‘outsiders’ and perhaps using our funding to promote a specific view, rather than act as facilitators.

Pam Judson, Advisory Panel Member and Grants Panel Member
The Women’s Fund for Scotland

Edinburgh, Scotland

Women's Funding Network member since 2004

Trust, Dialogue, Tolerance and Solidarity – Get Networking!

2011-03-24T13:52:00.000-07:00

When you get involved in engaged/activist/political theater at eighteen years of age you learn about the ideas and commitments of the feminist movement, and then many things begin changing for you on a personal level. You become part of a societal group which fights and strives for advancement and a change of life in a country, especially focused on women’s human rights.

My first encounter with the peace movement took place in 1991 on the Republic Square (Belgrade) when the brave Women in Black demanded that the state stop the wars on the territories of former Yugoslavia. That mute installation of women’s bodies dressed in black, in silence, had woken up a sense of revolt in me. In time I learned about the Women in Black network and about the strength of networking, communication, action and reaction. An especially important result of my learning about their work is the deconstruction of patriarchy, militarism, power and control. All of this breaks the matrix of behavior, conduct, development, maturating, of value systems. Women set new codes of conduct and of education, which of course is frightening to men.

During the nineties, and at the start out of 2000, Serbia was ripe with nationalism, in isolation, under sanctions, and this was a particularly difficult period for all people. Wars were taking place in the neighboring countries of ex-Yu, violence was escalating and many people lived day in and out in fear for their lives. At the Autonomous Women’s Center activists phoned day and night to women in Albania, Bosnia and Croatia – so that we would know how they were. Of course, people in our immediate surroundings, and even those closest to us, considered this an act of betrayal, but we were encouraged anyway that we were on the right path due to the strength of connecting with other women, solidarity and support. The right path being able to hear the Other. For me the essence of work and of development of a society is through a network of women who are fighting against violence, discrimination, all types of repression and terror, for a change in the value system, relations in society and for the freedom of movement and expression.

If you live in a closed off and repressive society sometimes it seems that there are no borders outside of your country. The only borders and territories are the feminist spaces, where women understand one another. I met Marta Drury, a philanthropist, activist and friend in Labris, a lesbian rights group. The support which many women in Serbia, and neighboring countries, got from the Amazon Marta, showed me a new dimension of networking. At Marta’s invitation several activists from the ex-Yu had the opportunity to take part in the Creating Changes(http://www.creatingchange.org/ ) conference. I was amazed by the number of people who attended this USA national conference. People were connecting and respecting each other with such passion, love and open communication. For me this was an eye opening experiencee – to meet queer, transsexual, intersex people, radical lesbians, all possible diversities - changes your frame of mind and your perception.

My greatest love is theater. The Magdalena Network is one of the largest women’s networks in contemporary theater. Ten years ago I went to Denmark for the first time for the Transit Festival. This was like magic: theater artist, actresses, masters all in one place. Theater techniques, shows, lectures and presentations were all exchanged and shared. There were 200 women from around the world: Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Russia, Czech Republic, Germany, USA, Mexico, Columbia, Africa, Europe… the whole world! The experiences I had there cemented my belief that the power of listening to each other, sharing and exchanging, development, changes, risks, dialogue, respect, trust, solidarity can bring us individually or as networks to new knowledge that on various sides of this globe there are women who are also fighting for a better future and a different world – a world without violence. That we are never really alone and can get support, encouragement and practical ideas from each other.

Zoe Gudovic, PR Manager

Reconstruction Women’s Fund
Belgrade, Serbia

Women's Funding Network member since 2005

Partnering with multiple stakeholders will increase support for your work and give you greater access to resources

2011-03-24T13:51:00.002-07:00

At the WHEAT Women’s Fund, we engage with multiple stakeholders and development agencies, in order to ensure that our engagement and advocacy as civil society actors is holistic, cuts across diverse sectors and ultimately has a greater and lasting impact.

Our collaboration with government agencies in South Africa has mainly been with the local and provincial Departments of Social Development (DSD) and the Departments of Health (DOH). In the last few months, we have partnered together and held convening’s.

Representatives from these departments have come to our convening’s and formed an integral part of our information sharing sessions and peer-learning’s with grassroots women about their socio-economic rights, and what recourses and channels are available to women. In this way, WHEAT bridges the gaps and creates safe spaces where grassroots women can access local governance structures, which would otherwise be inaccessible. Also, government agencies offer accredited training opportunities and knowledge that is supporting our grassroots women-led community based organizations to establish and formalize. These include obtaining Non Profit Organization (NPO) status and being registered in their databases as recipients of information and funding opportunities. Lastly, the Government departments also have material resources and financial support that WHEAT can tap into.

The corporate sector has mainly functioned as our donor base, through their Corporate Social Investment (CSI) programmes. However, WHEAT is increasingly engaging with the corporates as partners in implementing strategic developmental plans and as consultants, due to our extensive networks and experience; as well as our credibility and access to grassroots women. Furthermore, WHEAT has identified a niche with the corporate sector in South Africa, which is currently male-dominated, where we are educating them on issues pertaining to human rights for women, as well as philanthropy for women’s funds.

Our partnership with schools and universities is mainly through our ‘girl talk’ convenings. WHEAT believes in an intergenerational approach to development. We therefore support women and girls in our work and have initiatives aimed at promoting leadership among girls between the ages of 14 and 19 years, in high school.Some students from the university are involved with us as volunteers and research associates. We are also affiliated with socio-economic departments and societies in the universities around us, mainly in the capacity of non profit sector education, especially on women’s funds, feminism and philanthropy.

The advantages of a multi-pronged developmental approach, with a variety of stakeholders, is that we leverage more support for our work and have greater access to a diversity of resources. Also, central to WHEAT is the ideology that we should not work in isolation, so collaboration results in a stronger civil society initiative.

The risks of collaborating with a myriad of developmental agencies is that they may be many areas of interest represented, and usually, the gendered and feminist debate can get swallowed in the greater socio-economic and political discourse. Our agenda is the women’s agenda, and in a patriarchal society, that is not always well received, especially in religious settings and spaces.

Nompilo Cindy Ndlovu, Programme Manager

WHEAT Women's Fund

Cape Town, South Africa

Member of Women's Funding Network since 2003

Networking with corporations and goverment agencies can expand funding sources

2011-03-24T13:51:00.001-07:00

Nirnaya sees the need for networking with corporates and goverment agencies. The corporates are the movers and shakers for any political party to gain and retain power - run the government. They are also the critical elements in promoting the political will for advancing women's rights agenda. We involve individual women in positions of power within the government or corporate sector into our work as board, who in turn help in some collaborations. The risk in our involving with the government per se, is that we can sometimes be promoting initiatives that threaten the sustainability of women's empowerment and leave this collaboration to our grantees.

Impressed by our outreach to remotely placed grassroots women, after attending our formation day celebrations in 2006, the Hyderabad based General Manager - Corporates of State Bank of India, invited Nirnaya to apply for a loan of Rs.10,00,000 for onward lending to the community based women's groups she is linked to. The lending was to dalit and Muslim women in a district of Andhra Pradesh, covering 10 groupswith a celing of Rs.10,000 for one woman, the interest was borrower friendly and the success was such that the in the next year the same women's groups were awarded loans to the tune of Rs1,00,000 by other banks in that district. Our grantee WNGO which works in the district was able to address a wide range of women's issues from then onwards.

Indira Jena, Executive Director

Nirnaya Women's Fund

Hyderabad, India

Women's Funding Network member since 2002

Collaboration is important in order to establish credibility and raise more funds

2011-03-24T13:51:00.000-07:00

Since its first day of establishment, the Bulgarian Fund for Women board and staff have evaluated as very important the collaboration with different country institutions in order for the Fund to receive popularity and credibility with its work and later on – raised opportunities for fundraising from local donors in the country.

Collaboration was executed by different means depending on the specific institution, as for example with:

Government

The main common activities have recently been connected with the elaboration of the National Program against Domestic Violence. The President & CEO Stoila Bongalova was invited and took part in 3 meetings of the Working group set up by the Ministry of Interior with the task to elaborate the National Program for 2011 year. There were representatives of other Ministries and NGOs actively involved in actions and policies against domestic violence.

The Board Chair Stanimira Hadjimitova actively participates in the work of the National Council on Gender Equality to the Council of Ministries. Nevertheless the NGO representatives have a consultative status to this body, this is the only official structural instrument for influencing the State policy in the field.

Business

BFW is a member of the Bulgarian Donors Forum where a special Club of Business Donors exists. This is a real space for meeting different decision makers in the field of business, where BFW can present the specific problems women and girls in the country face and thus argue for financial support of programs that are focusing on overcoming of such problems. Stanimira Hadjimitova is a member of the BDF Board and her position gives her additional options in favour of the Bulgarian women. For example, in April the BFW and the BDF will organize the first Conference “Women and Philanthropy”, where by promoting good donor practices Bulgarian women will be encouraged and motivated to participate in achieving socially important causes through voluntary work and expertise and financial support.

On the other side, during the years, BFW organized numerous events focused on business representatives trying to train and make them more sensitive towards the existing gender discrimination in practice.

Universities

BFW used its “Youth Program” to contact the Sofia University and its Faculty on Sociology in the year 2009, when both organizations held a survey among young people in 10 Bulgarian towns that BFW run the Program on the youth sensitivity about gender discrimination and presented the results at a national Round table discussion.

Last but not least, BFW is using all modern means to reach its collaborators, like its Internet web site, the social network Facebook, and the Blog.

The only challenges are connected with the small staff number and the need of much more regular contacts with the different stakeholders.

Stanimira Hadjimitova, Board Chair

Bulgarian Fund for Women

Sofia, Bulgaria

Women's Funding Network member since 2005

International means working together while retaining diversity

2011-03-16T12:05:00.000-07:00

I, personally, prefer the term INTERNATIONAL rather than global. As defined by the Oxford dictionary global is: relating to the whole world; worldwide... And, for me, this term is not right in describing our work. INTERNATIONAL, for me, means: allowing us work together on achieving our one common goal, and yet retain our diversity.

It is very important to feel yourself as a part of one bigger thing. Many NGOs in Mongolia are working on many different social issues, from offering social services to advocacy campaigns. They see there’s a problem and they work to address it, but they don’t see that they are an actors and builders of social change as a whole. And the unique role that women’s funds are playing is creating space for interaction and shared knowledge, and thus, building movement for social change. And not only in Mongolia, but also contributing to social change on international arena!!

By being a member of international networks, we have learned many innovative ways to raise funds for women’s rights; to better strategize our grantmaking, so it doesn’t duplicate or overlap the areas already covered; to effectively evaluate our grantees and evaluate our own organization.

MONES is a member fund of Asian Network of Women's Funds, a regional network of 7 women’s funds, which is implementing a joint research project “Where is the Money for Women’s Political Participation in Asia”. And it taught us a lot on collaboration; communication, planning and scheduling, because of the own country contexts, and slightly different time zones. But these all also proved that doesn’t matter where each fund is located, as long as we have the dedication and are committed to work for one common goal – of achieving just and truly democratic society – we are, and will be able to overcome our preconditioned boundaries.
Working on women’s issues, and just any other issue that is challenging modern society; it is very important to have a space to share and learn from peers, both from inside and those that are located in different continents of the globe.

This inspires and makes us feel that we belong to a movement that is truly international. Meaning we understand each other; we are united under one goal, but we are each uniquely different, allowing us be in a “commonality” and yet keep our diversity.

Khandarmaa Zorig, Foreign Relations and Fundraising Programme Officer

MONES Mongolian Fund For Women

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Women's Funding Network member since 2004

Authentically global means common purpose and shared long-term goals

2011-03-16T11:46:00.000-07:00

Based on the experience of the Urgent Action Funds for Women´s Human Rights, “authentically global”, at the very minimum, implies common purpose and shared long-term goals. Our option for social transformation leading to peace, justice, and equality for all, and a clear decision to protect and promote the right of the diversity of women to participate in all aspects of citizenship and peace building at the local, national and international levels, is at the heart of our “globalness”. As three “sister” funds, the well-being of each is the concern of all.

Although we are three independent and autonomous organizations belonging to the same sisterhood, we share essentially identical Missions, Visions, and Values. In other words, we are readily identifiable as the Urgent Action Funds both for what we stand for as well as our shared programming initiatives. We are authentically global in that we work in all countries of the Global South and East for the defense and promotion of women’s rights from offices in Bogotá, Colombia for women in the Americas; in Nairobi, Kenya for African women; and in Boulder, Colorado to meet the needs of women human rights defenders in other parts of the world.

To program global does not imply we are absolutely and forever identical: in fact, to fulfill our mandate of responding to the needs of the diversity of grassroots activists and women human rights defenders, we incorporate contextual specificities that respond to their realities. Being authentically global also implies we must be able to decipher and incorporate, with the participation of colleagues on the ground, the needs of women on many continents, in a multitude of countries.

At the same time, to be “authentically global” means to step beyond shared philosophical concerns and political goals and to be committed to similar, if not completely identical, programming initiatives. In order to build synergy; strengthen women’s organizations through shared learning; and to develop effective advocacy strategies at the international level, programming initiatives involving similar themes and processes have been developed. Around the world, the Urgent Action Funds are known for Rapid Response Grant Making, and although our Categories and Criteria may vary slightly, our identity for this particular funding niche is unmistakable. Each of the Urgent Action Funds is also committed to involving partner participation in the implementation of Collaborative Initiatives including Research, Publications and Advocacy. In other words, we are also “authentically global” because we implement programs that can benefit a wide diversity of activists and women’s human rights organizations around the world.

Operational concerns are also important; language capacity, for example, allows for global communication that ensures collaboration and cooperation. In the case of the UAF´s, the question of where offices should be located is not a determining factor; rather than one centralized office, regional offices have proven to be operationally and programmatically feasible. Collaborative rather than competitive fund-raising, as well as shared advocacy initiatives at the global level, are features of an authentically global organization or network- based on shared goals, programs and practice.

Eleanor Douglas, Executive Director
Urgent Action Fund of Latin America for Women´s Human Rights
Bogotá, Colombia
Women's Funding Network Member since 2010

An authentically global organization works beyond its geographical, physical, individual borders, and is willing to think beyond its cultural border.

2011-03-15T16:52:00.000-07:00

"An authentically global organization works beyond its geographical, physical, individual borders, and is willing to think beyond its cultural border. This global organization works in NETWORK.”

The organizations which work in networks of affinity or activity, they change immediately because they don't have just local objectives anymore, but local objectives linked to global collective action.

Uno de los factores más importantes de las REDES es su carácter multiplicador, su poder que irradia el ideal de la democracia propuesta por la sociedad actual, desde el cual se vuelve particularmente relevante en lo simbólico y para la difusión de una nueva utopía de la sociedad civil democrática.

A network should preserve the autonomy of groups, the communal character of these groups and necessarily to invest in organizational management of information exchange, communication and performance openly democratic, creating a free area where their members can restructure themselves in their individual and collective action .

Uma organização global, se articula globalmente, e a maneira de estar em vários países, tanto em percepção do contexto local, como em atuação, se dá por meio de redes. Integrando atores diversos, articulando o local e o global. Ou seja, é necessário que essa organização invista intensivamente em tecnologia da informação e se baseie na cooperação entre todas organizações que fazem parte da rede, sem que se perda a autonomia de nenhuma integrante.

The networking action is being proliferated by a multiplicity of factors: economic globalization, which changed the productive and administrative processes toward greater flexibility, integration and interdependence, the recent changes in the state and its relations with society, imposes new management models involving the interaction of decentralized structures and innovative forms of partnerships between state and organizations (social or not).

En el caso de América Latina, estos factores son concomitantes con el proceso de democratización, que modificó la estructura social, con la proliferación de muchas organizaciones sociales y el desarrollo de una nueva conciencia social de ciudadanía, reclamando una mayor participación en procesos de acción más globales, así como los obstáculos y fenómenos sociales que enfrentan.

A emergência de redes responde às necessidades e características do contexto atual, onde o poder apresenta-se como plural, diversificado, difuso, complexo.

The operating or action possibilities of a global organization is conditioned to developments in communications technology, allowing virtual interactions in real time. So we must consider that countries still have considerable inequalities among themselves for access to technology and information, for example. And these inequalities can not mean a hindered participation in the network.

Sobre comunicação é importante frisar que uma organização global, que trabalha em rede, invista em ferramentas e mecanismos que possibilitem a troca de informações independente do idioma das organizações que integram a rede. Definir um idioma como o idioma padrão na rede ou organização global não é uma solução eficaz, pois exclui a participação das ativistas e organizações que não dominam esse idioma. Isso é muito grave, porque o sucesso da atuação em rede consiste na qualidade da informação que ela fomenta e recolhe localmente e que depois distribui globalmente.

Por esse mesmo motivo é indispensável que uma organização global considere as diferenças e diversidade regionais, que se traduzem em complexidades socio-político-culturais, por exemplo: a região norte do continente americano tem particularidades distintas da região central, que por sua vez difere da região sul do continente. Uma organização global, ou pelo menos que queira atuar no continente americano, deve pensar em estabelecer uma sede no norte, no centro e no sul, garantindo assim um vinculo globalizado, um envolvimento, um comprometimento com as regiões onde atua, e assim, investindo em acessar as informações mais precisas sobre os contextos locais, com vista a sua ação global.

The maintenance of networks imposes challenges as: processes of negotiation and consensus building, establishment of rules of engagement, interaction and distribution of resources, building mechanisms and decision-making processes, priority setting and monitoring.

The ELAS has several experiences of networking. Among them we highlight the ConMujeres Network. A Consortium of Women's Funds in Latin America and Caribbean, an alliance of Funds, created to mobilize, distribute and increase financial resources for human rights of women and girls and, thereby, contributing to the development and strengthening of organizations and women's movement and their capacity.

The ConMujeres's objectives are: to multiply the impact of social investment in leadership and human rights of women and girls in the region; to contribute to the strengthening of women's and feminist movements in Latin America and the Caribbean; and to contribute to the greater visibility of organizations working for the rights of women and girls in the region.

El éxito de la iniciativa se debió a la ampliación de la fuerza para recaudación de fondos de los Fondos de Mujeres del ConMujeres, a continuación, en apoyo directo de decenas de organizaciones de muejers en 17 países de la Región, y el impacto generado por una acción coordinada en la Región.

Além do esperado, tivemos ainda outros êxitos no âmbito do ConMujeres: estimulamos a criação ou desenvolvimento e fortalecimento de outras redes; estimulamos o desenvolvimento de ações de transformação social ou de reivindicação de direitos mais coletivas, e também além das fronteiras geográficas locais, por parte dos grupos envolvidos, e ampliamos o conhecimento de todas as organizações envolvidas na rede sobre contextos políticos e sociais na Região de alcance da rede, o que necessariamente aprimora nossa ação de transformação social.

We (ConMujeres) invested in an exchange of information in both official languages of the Region (Spanish and Portuguese), and this experience was very rewarding for the members of this network.

The diversity or acceptance of others as different, plurality and the recognition of others as partners, coordinated and interdependent actions, conflict negotiation and the search for a common goal, requires a democratic culture and a structure of "power distribution."

K. K. Verdade, Program Manager
ELAS-Fundo de Investimento Social

Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
Women's Funding Network Member Since 2004

Being authentically global is more than just having diverse members

2011-03-15T16:38:00.000-07:00

Global network requires not only having the diverse membership. It requires having a very diverse staff with ability and knowledge to understand and reflect the needs of members from all different regions of the world. The services need to be created and developed already with strong focus on differences and contexts of the global membership and not to be created with one continent/one region centric lens and being just replicated in other regions. In all communication of the network which considers itself to be global there is a need of a very strong focus on use of language “understandable” globally. Last but not least the diversity of the membership needs to be reflected also in the governing bodies, advisory committees and other institutions of the network.

Marketa Hronkova, Country Director

Slovak-Czech Women´s Fund

Prague, Czech Republic

Women's Funding Network member since 2004

Recognize a Women-Led Organization Making a Difference in Your Community!

2011-03-01T12:22:00.000-08:00

We are partnering with GreatNonprofits in the 2011 Women's Empowerment Campaign along with GuideStar, the National Council on Women's Organizations, the American Association of University Women, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and the National Center for Lesbian Rights to recognize nonprofits working on women's issues and initiatives.

Go to the Women's Empowerment Campaign site and tell us about an organization making a difference in your life or your community.

What do the nominated organizations get in return?

Recognition: Every organization that gathers 10 or more positive reviews during the month of March will make the GreatNonprofits Top-Rated Women's Nonprofits List.
Community Engagement: This is a great opportunity for you to interact with and engage directly with an organization you admire!
First-person stories: This is an opportunity for you to share how an organization serves your community. Your first-person experience is a powerful and authentic resource that your chosen organization can use to engage new donors and volunteers!

"Women's Work Is Real Work"

2011-02-02T17:06:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Domestic Workers United member Christine Yvette Lewis, who was interviewed on "The Colbert Report" recently.

Domestic Workers United is a grantee partner with Ms. Foundation for Women, a member of Women's Funding Network. We are thrilled that Domestic Workers United will be one of the organizations featured during our upcoming conference The Power of Global Networks, in Brooklyn, New York April 7-9.

Conference attendees have the chance to visit with organizations and women, like Christine, who are creating lasting, systemic change in New York City that is having a worldwide impact. You can register online to attend our conference if you want to be part of our citywide tour of social change sheroes.

The Colbert Report

Mon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c

Christine Yvette Lewis

www.colbertnation.com

Colbert Report Full Episodes

Political Humor & Satire Blog

Video Archive

Join Us in Brooklyn April 7-9!

2011-01-13T15:55:00.000-08:00

We are thrilled that Executive Director of the new UN Women and former President of Chile Michelle Bachelet will be delivering the keynote at our upcoming conference, The Power of Global Networks, in Brooklyn, New York, April 7-9!

The Power of Global Networks is open to all so register online before February 18 to take advantage of discounted rates!

Among the highlights this year:

A warm welcome April 7 from MacArthur "Genius" awardee and world renowned eco-entrepreneur Majora Carter.
Meet social change movers and shakers throughout New York City during a tour guided by local women leaders.
Workshops to increase your activism and leadership in creating equality and social change in your community.
Dynamic conversations and tools for how to embrace social media to bring about social change -- with a gender lens.

We cannot wait to see you there! Register online now!

Holiday Giving Strategy: Find Power in Numbers

2010-12-02T16:37:00.000-08:00

U.S. News and World Report has included Women's Funding Network in its "10 Smart Money Ways to Give" rundown. You can read more here.

Women's funds are a great choice for charity giving because the money you give is an investment in a community, whether the women's fund is supporting improvement in your community, state, nation or worldwide.

If you are looking for an innovative way to honor someone special in your life, consider giving to your local women's fund.

Taking Our Case to Congress

2010-09-15T13:46:00.000-07:00

Deborah Richardson, Women's Funding Network's Chief Program Officer, testified before a Judiciary Committee hearing on domestic minor sex trafficking Sept. 15 about the problem of underage girls being commercially sexually exploited across the United States.

You can read Deborah's testimony here.

The hearing is a major step in bringing awareness to the issue of domestic minor sex trafficking and taking real action toward preventing and ending this problem. But so much more remains to be done.

If you want to take action right with us right now in the U.S. you can urge your lawmaker to sign on to H.R. 5575, which would create a comprehensive system of care for survivors of trafficking as well as increased penalties for those who buy and sell girls for sex.

SF Chronicle Hones In on Craigslist Ads

2010-05-20T10:39:00.000-07:00

Craigslist's hometown paper, the San Francisco Chronicle, has taken notice of all the pressure mounting nationwide for the online services firm to do something about ads posted on their site that allow the prostitution of girls -- some as young as 11 years old.

Yesterday, the Rebecca Project placed an ad in the print edition of the Chronicle calling Craigslist to task for not doing enough to restrict prostitution of children on the site. It was accompanied by this letter on Huffingtonpost.com.

You can do your part to send Craigslist a message by signing our petition here. Keep up with the latest on this issue at A Future. Not A Past.

Craigslist UPDATE

2010-05-13T16:22:00.001-07:00

Women's Funding Network Chief Program Officer Deborah Richardson has co-authored a commentary in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution on preventing child sexual exploitation. Read it here.

Craigslist CEO Jim Buckmaster responds to GEMS founder Rachel Lloyd's criticism of the online service as contributing to the sexual exploitation of girls. Read it here.

And, of course, join our effort to prevent child sexual exploitation. Sign our petition to Craigslist here (or at the link below) and learn more about A Future. Not A Past.

Tell Craigslist: Make Real Changes to Adult Services Ads to Protect Our Children

2010-05-10T16:19:00.000-07:00

Craigslist is making a $40 million profit from "Adult Services" -- a section that includes the sale of children for sex.

Tell Craigslist you will BOYCOTT them until they take action to prevent the sexual exploitation of children on their site!

Our goal is to get 150,000 signatures for every girl at risk of being endangered and sold this year. Sign NOW and spread the word.

JOIN US NOW!

Thank You

2010-04-02T11:02:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all of you who voted, the band Metric won the Pepsi Refresh SXSW Challenge. As a result, Women's Funding Network will receive a $100,000 grant toward the national expansion of A FUTURE. NOT A PAST., a campaign to stop the commercial sexual exploitation of girls in the United States! Women's Funding Network is grateful to Metric and the Pepsi Refresh Project for making this possible. You can read the announcements at Spin Magazine and Pepsi's Refresh Blog.

Deborah Richardson, Women's Funding Network's Chief Program Officer, says, "It is estimated there are more than 200,000 children -- mostly girls -- being bought and sold in this country every year. Your clicks were for them!!"

A FUTURE. NOT A PAST. was created in 2007 to address and prevent the prostitution of girls in the state of Georgia. The campaign seeks to protect and inspire hope in girls who have survived commercial sexual exploitation, disable demand and prosecute and increase penalties for pimps and johns. The Georgia campaign has been so successful and the issue is so prevalent in states across the country that Women's Funding Network is launching the national expansion of A FUTURE. NOT A PAST. this Spring.

The $100,000 grant from Pepsi will support Women's Funding Network's efforts to:

Collect data on the number of sexually exploited girls in target states to document the national scope of the issue
Develop a plan of action for a nationwide comprehensive system of care for sexually exploited girls
Create and implement public awareness and advocacy campaigns to decrease demand and provide support for survivors
Increase programming that prepares girls to lead full and healthy lives

Vote for Us As Many Times as You Can in the Pepsi Refresh SXSW Challenge!

2010-03-18T14:58:00.000-07:00

Vote here as many times as you can! Don't stop clicking until midnight Eastern tonight!

The band Metric approached us this month to be the recipient charity for the Pepsi Refresh SXSW Challenge. This is a challenge between the bands Metric and Broken Social Scene in partnership with Austin’s SXSW Challenge. If Metric gets the most votes we could receive $100,000. The winner will be announced March 31.

Metric chose Women’s Funding Network to support the launch of the national expansion of A Future. Not a Past. to end the prostitution of girls across the U.S. This phenomenal concept originated in Atlanta, where child sexual exploitation was running rampant before city officials partnered with Atlanta Women's Foundation and The Harold and Kayrita Anderson Family Foundation to create ways to prevent and end the trafficking of children. Women's Funding Network wants to take the work done in Atlanta and replicate it nationally to make all our communities safer.

Please visit the great Video about the Pepsi Refresh Challenge, Metric and Women’s Funding Network. Please take a couple of minutes to link to our Facebook page, too and VOTE! You can vote as many times as you want!

Vote here!

What's In Store for Women and Girls This Decade?

2010-03-05T13:51:00.000-08:00

Some of the remarkable women who lead women's funds and partner with them as donor activists got together to share what they feel is possible for women and girls in the next 10 years.

Have a listen and share what you think is possible.

Happy International Women's Day!

Progress or Regress?

2010-02-08T11:04:00.000-08:00

Lately it seems we've seen several instances of women selling their virginity in the media, whether for college expenses or even academic study. Recently The Associated Press reported on a young woman in New Zealand, known only as Unigirl, who is selling her virginity to pay for her college tuition.

Last month, Natalie Dylan of San Diego, CA posted her virginity for sale, and now bidding has surpassed the million-dollar mark.

Dylan has a degree in Women's Studies and insists that she is not demeaning herself.

Both women appear to believe that the ends justifies the means.

On an individual level, one might be able to say that these women are wholly in control of themselves and their desires, which is a wonderful thing. It is empowering to know you may do what you want with yourself.

However, if measured against a broader scale, couldn't it be construed that their actions perpetuate a perspective that is unhealthy toward women? Namely, the perception of women as objects that may be purchased and sold.

These organizations – all women’s funds and members of Women’s Funding Network – fund innovative programs and organizations that improve the lives of women and girls by educating people about human rights and equality:

Global Fund for Women
V Day, founded by Eve Ensler
Equality Now

African Women's Development Fun

It's somewhat of a paradox that higher education has led Dylan and Unigirl to sell a portion of themselves on the Internet.

What is your take on their actions? Are they signs of progress or regress?

Measuring Real Wealth: Beyond GDP by Riane Eisler

2010-02-03T17:11:00.000-08:00

The U.S. Commerce Department recently announced a growth in Gross Domestic Product of 5.7 % for the last quarter of 2009 — the fastest growth in six years. This sounds like great news. But it's only a small part of the economic story, which is why GDP is so misleading.

Besides the fact that GDP doesn't measure unemployment or other dire realities facing businesses, workers, and families in the U.S. today, GDP fails to measure what really counts. It tells us nothing about the degree to which a nation invests in its real wealth: people and nature.

Investing in what economists call "high-quality human capital" is essential as we shift to the post-industrial knowledge/service economy. Yet here are some statistics, from even before the "Great Recession," showing how the U.S. has actually been neglecting its most important resource: its people, starting in childhood.

Infant mortality: The United States ranks 44th, behind every industrialized nation, and behind much poorer nations, according to the 2008 CIA Fact Book.
Childhood Development: The Save the Children "report card" comparing 25 wealthy nations on 10 key benchmarks of early childhood development shows that Sweden meets all ten, Finland, Denmark, France, and Norway meet eight, and the United States only meets three.
Child and overall poverty levels: The U.S. had the highest child poverty rate (21.9%) of industrial nations and the highest overall poverty rate (17.0%) of the 17 OECD countries, according to the International Comparisons chapter of The State of Working America 2004/2005. Finland (5.4%), Norway (6.4%), and Sweden (6.5%) had the lowest overall poverty rates.
Maternal mortality: The United States ranks 41st according to a UN analysis of 171 countries.

None of this information is shown by GDP, or even by the World Economic Forum's Global Competitiveness index. Nor does GDP reflect whether or not a nation is investing in caring for nature – even in face of mounting environmental threats

Because government and business leaders urgently need more accurate and inclusive economic measures, the Center for Partnership Studies (CPS) has commissioned the Urban Institute in Washington, D.C., to survey the current movement toward measures that go beyond GDP – from the earlier United Nations Development reports and the recent Sarkozy report by noted economists such as Joseph Stiglitz and Amartya Sen to less – publicized environmental, gender, and children’s well-being indicators – and to make specific recommendations.

One of the concerns of CPS is to ensure that new economic indicators are inclusive, and particularly that the majority – women and children – are not again forgotten. This is not only for their sake, but because data about children and women is essential for any accurate assessment of global economic and social conditions. As was recently posted on this blog, "A healthy global economy needs a strong societal foundation and this cannot be achieved without the contributions and participation of 51 percent of the global population."

There is strong evidence of this. Studies (including the CPS "Women, Men, and the Global Quality of Life” report and the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap reports) show a strong correlation between a nation’s general quality of life and the status of women. Similarly, Canadian and other studies show that national investment in children, such as in high-quality childhood education, is key to success in the post-industrial economy.

I urge all policy makers and developers of new economic measurements to consider these correlations. Only by taking them into account will business and government leaders have the inclusive and accurate economic indicators they need to develop more effective and humane economic and social policies.

Riane Eisler wrote this post as a guest of The She Change. She is a systems scientist and cultural historian, president of the Center for Partnership Studies, and author of the international bestsellers The Chalice and the Blade and The Real Wealth of Nations.

Welcome to the Bad Girls Club

2010-02-02T15:29:00.000-08:00

CBS News recently ran a story about a series of videos that have become the latest YouTube phenomenon. However, this time the innocent interest in videos featuring Susan Boyle or little Charlie biting fingers does not apply. With over 8 million hits, the latest on the YouTube scene is videos featuring teen girls in fiercely violent interactions.

The teen girls in these videos are nothing short of outrageous, but perhaps even more disturbing is that we actually are amused by their behavior! These girls are seen brutally attacking one another with no sign of physical regard or caution. One girl is actually shown sitting on top of another girl attempting to rip her adversaries hair out while repeatedly pounding the teenage skull into pavement.

Parents, children, peers are present in these videos but choose to watch the “show” instead of intervening on the cruelty occurring only steps away from them. Gerry Leone, District Attorney of Middlesex, Mass., said recent reports indicate that 80 percent of physical violence that happens on school grounds occur between teen girls. In fact, recent statistics show 1 in 4 girls have been involved in at least one violent interaction at work or school. What has caused teenage girl violence such an entertaining trend?

My thoughts immediately go to the popular Oxygen channel reality show Bad Girls Club. The series, which just began its fourth season, has a pretty basic plot. The network casts the seven most aggressive, shallow, rude young women they can find (the age group is early 20s), strap them into the most revealing satin mini dress on the market, throw them into a house together and have them fight it out. The housemates of the Bad Girls house frequently resort to violence or verbal assault when faced with any grain of antagonism. These women pride themselves on their vicious nature and sometimes suggest that those characteristics make them more of a woman. The Bad Girls Club is being broadcast on a channel that is directed towards women's interests. The Oxygen channel is promoting this vision of women today.

Now just for a moment, try to see this from a teenage girls perspective. These women are sexy, trendy, popular, and lively, they live in a mansion in Los Angeles, and no one would ever think of crossing a Bad Girl. Now I’m not suggesting that the Bad Girls Club is the cause of the up rise in teenage girl violence, but the hit series is definitely an example of how today’s society is popularizing the image of the violent young woman.

By watching these YouTube videos and reality shows are we promoting violence in our girls? This type of violence does seem to be getting massive attention, and what does a teenage girl crave more than attention? Could it be that the increase in teenage girl violence is perpetuated by our desire to watch it?

I suggest that if a network, such as Oxygen, decides to found their network on the issues of women today, they need to present a more positive outlook. Our teen girls are constantly being pummeled by the media's image of women. Let's give our young women a sense of self-worth by promoting positive attention based on education and intellect rather than negative attention based on trendy viciousness. Contact Oxygen and let them know what you think about the representation that they are giving our young women.

Working Women

2010-01-28T10:51:00.000-08:00

The New York Times today ran a piece about how large Indian financial institutions have increasingly adjusted employment policies to make room at the leadership table for women. You can read the story here.

This reminds me of a report CBS did last fall when they interviewed the Vice Chair of our Board, Jacki Zehner, about research she recently collaborated on showing the difference between women's leadership and men's leadership. There is a difference and part of creating space for women in leadership positions is acknowledging the unique perspectives and talents women bring to the table. You can read more about Jacki's work and the CBS report on her blog, Purse Pundit, which you should definitely bookmark.

Anyways, the New York Times story, when read together with the report about Jacki, adds a nice context to the blog posting below about all the talk in Davos this week.

Regarding the photo choice, I cannot help but think about Melanie Griffith's role in "Working Girl" back in the '80s. Putting aside the seriousness for a moment, I think she rocked it. She also did a good job representing real women in "Cherry 2000," another '80s KlassiK.

Open Letter to the World Economic Forum: Women Key to Long-Term Growth

2010-01-25T09:49:00.000-08:00

This week, world leaders and the world's largest corporations will be gathering at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, to discuss, in the words of the summit's theme, how to "Rethink, Redesign and Rebuild" the global economy. It is our hope leaders take time to consider that women - more than half the population - contribute to global economic stability and security and must be fully integrated into any recovery plans.

As a growing number of thought leaders and world bodies - including corporate initiatives like Goldman Sachs' $100 million investment in training 10,000 women business leaders -herald the pivotal and transformative role of women and girls to enrich societies everywhere, we must adopt strategies to achieve gender equality not only because it's just and moral but because without it, no country will achieve solid prosperity. According to a recent study by Boston Consulting Group, women workers will be driving the post-recession world economy, representing a massive emerging market more than twice the size of India and China combined. The World Economic Forum's own Global Gender Gap report shows when countries decrease the gender gap they increase development.

However, the most recent report also describes "significant" gaps in job opportunities for and wages paid to women as well as continuing inequality in women's political participation. A report in The Economist earlier this month echoed these findings:
"Only 2% of the bosses of Fortune 500 companies and five of those in the FTSE 100 stockmarket index are women. Women make up less than 13% of board members in America."
In this same environment, the U.S. government last fall released data showed the number of women in the workforce is on the verge of surpassing men for the first time, albeit women still earn an average of 78 cents to every dollar a man earns. Increasing women's participation alone will not fix the economy, as the U.S. can attest.

Tapping into the potential of economic growth women hold means providing them a space at the leadership table and creating new solutions and approaches to challenges that keep women and girls from realizing their full potential. Some of this is already taking place through partnerships and discussions between large foundations like Kellogg and Ford, women's funds worldwide, corporations like Ernst & Young and national governments. This year the fifth anniversary annual meeting of the Clinton Global Initiative included discussion of investing in girls and women, with sessions focused on the different ways women strengthen societies and grow economies and the need to eliminate gender inequity. The event sparked enlightened conversations and renewed commitments for cross-sector investment in women and girls, including a $5 million partnership between the World Bank, the Government of Liberia and the Nike Foundation to improve economic opportunities for adolescent girls in post-conflict Liberia by linking skills training to labor demands.

We strongly encourage the delegates at Davos to continue discussions such as these and to make actively solving gender equity a central strategy to create global economic growth. As a pall of uncertainty hangs over the start of 2010 - continuing global terrorism, climate problems, continuing job losses, ongoing wars - there should be one sure strategy world leaders, corporations and global citizens alike should agree on: investing meaningfully in women and girls.

In the past there have been missteps in actions by all sectors that have led to women being relegated to the sidelines of major efforts to create growth. A healthy global economy needs a strong societal foundation and this cannot be achieved without the contributions and participation of 51 percent of the global population. While most of us can agree on this, the next step is to make bold financial commitments that will create a noticeable difference in the future. Let's get to work!

How Women's Funds Are Responding in Haiti

2010-01-14T14:44:00.001-08:00

In response to the recent tragedy in Haiti, women's funds are providing crucial funding and resources to the people who need it most. Please support their efforts during this critical response period. We are continuing to track ongoing rescue and relief efforts, this page will be updated as more information becomes available.

American Jewish World Service's Haiti Emergency Relief Fund

Global Fund for Women's Crisis Fund

Global Fund for Children's Emergency Fund

MADRE's Emergency and Disaster Relief Fund for Haiti

V-Day's Haiti Rescue Fund

SPARK's Haiti Response Fund

Urgent Action Fund has translated their Rapid Response Grantmaking Program information into Kreyol and has also prepared a letter (below) for organizations in Haiti working to support women affected by escalating conflict.

A tout sè nou yo ann Ayiti, Fon pou Aksyon Ijan nan defans Dwa Imen Fanm (UAF) ap di nou yon gwo bonjou. Non mwen se Saira Hamidi e mwen travay pou pwogram Entèvansyon Rapid nan bay Sibvansyn nan UAF.

Nou ap ekri ou an solidarite apre nou swiv nan nouvèl tout kalite dega tranblemandtè a fè ann Ayiti. Sa fè kè nou mal anpil e nou vle asire nou ke sè nou nan peyi a byen. Anplis de sa, nou ta renmen raple nou ke UAF la gen yon pwogram Entèvansyon Rapid pou li bay sibvansyon nan ka kote sityasyon prezante e nou kapab bay yon asistans. Byenke nou pa kapab bay fon pou asistans imanitè, nou kapab kan menm asiste gwoup fanm nan sityasyon kote vyolans ak konfli ap ogmante.

Malerezman, jan nou konnen, vyolans kont fanm se yon bagay ki ogmante souvan apre yon katastwòf natirèl. UAF bay sibvansyon tou pou konsolide sekirite defansè dwa imen fanm e li pote asistans nan afè nan lajistis lè gen posibilite pou sa etabli yon presedans nan kesyon dwa imen fanm. Nou mete avèk lèt sa a yon kopi kategori e kritè pou don sa yo, e nou mete tou yon fomilè pou fè yon demand pou sibvansyon. Pou jwenn plis enfòmasyon, ou kapab konsilte sit Entènèt nou nan adrès: www.urgentactionfund.org (nap mande pou eksize nou pase preske tout sit lan se ann anglè).

Nap mande nou pou nou konnen jan nap panse avèk nou.

An solidarite,

Saira Hamidi

The Women of Twitter: Entrepreneurs or Cheerleaders?

2010-01-11T09:46:00.000-08:00

A Vanity Fair article entitled "America's Tweethearts" caused a bit of an uproar in the social media sphere last week, with various bloggers calling it "condescending" and "embarrassing." Even Felicia Day, a popular actress who is featured in the article, wrote in her own blog that she was disappointed with the article:

"But what really ENRAGED me was the general tone, which artfully made intelligent, articulate women sound vapid and superficial."

The article profiles six young women who use social media, like Twitter, to expand their influence, but instead of focusing on their individual achievements, the article reads as clearly dismissive of Twitter, its users, and even the women featured in the article.

It likens them to cheerleaders:

"It so happens that they are nice girls—the Internet’s equivalent of a telephone chat line staffed by a bunch of cheerleaders..."

Others on blogs such as Geek Week, CNET and Geek Girl Diva also expressed their dismay with the article.

The VF article makes no mention of how these women use their social media savvy to promote themselves or the people and causes they believe in; instead it focuses on Twitter as an enormous and hollow popularity contest.

The prevailing criticism is that Vanity Fair missed an opportunity to highlight the accomplishments of these women, who collectively have more than five million followers. That is a huge number of people who are interested in what these women have to tweet about.

Day's quote is what the story should have focused on:

"Doors were closed to us before,” says Day. “Now the tools for success have been democratized. It’s just me and whoever wants to talk to me, wherever they are in the world.”

For a better article about women and Twitter, read Forbes' "14 Power Women To Follow On Twitter." Unlike the Vanity Fair story, this actually focuses on women and their social media exploits, detailing exactly why these women are worthy of their many followers.

"These 'twilebrities' are constructing digital empires by building brands from the ground up. They are not only experts, but also extraordinarily engaging, hard working, interactive and responsive to their communities. And they are deserving of your follow."

Of course, any list is not necessarily exhaustive or objective, but Forbes is respectful of every woman on their list.

Twitter does make it easier to reach out to real experts, and Twitter makes the real-time Internet into a more personable experience.

Check out us out on Twitter at @womensfunding to learn more about women's issues.

How do you use Twitter to connect to issues you care about?

How Do We Change Our "Culture of Sexual Assault"?

2010-01-07T13:11:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, the Christian Science Monitor published a telling commentary on Western society's "culture of sexual assault" by Chloe Angyal. A group of male students from the University of Sydney created a "pro-rape" Facebook group. It has since been removed, but the simple act of creating that group speaks volumes about the widespread acceptance of sexual misconduct.

As I started reading this, I immediately thought of the California Bay Area (Richmond) gang-rape case from almost three months ago, in which a group of people simply stood by and watched instead of helping the 15-year-old girl. Angyal connects this incident with the Australian students:

"The ugly reality is that neither Australian nor American culture holds its young men to a high enough standard."

Angyal writes that our society implicitly condones this behavior, from the TV shows we watch to how we seem to quickly forget when rape occurs because it is so prevalent. A study by the Parents Television Council suggests that the incidents of violence against women on TV have increased by 120 percent from 2004 to 2009.

Angyal also cautions that

"...rape is no metaphor, no joke. It’s real, and it happens alarmingly often. We need to demand better of our young men... Their humanity, and women’s lives, depends on it."

The New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault's (a grantee partner of New York Women’s Foundation) Project ENVISION conducted research last year on the root causes of sexual assault in the small communities of the Lower East Side, Manhattan; the South Bronx; and Williamsburg, Brooklyn . Project ENVISION is tackling sexual assault on a community scale, and have found that more than 50 percent of those surveyed in each community believe that educating the youth on sexual violence may be the best way to change perceptions of gender inequality.

Do you know of any other women-led organizations working on innovative solutions to this problem?

Congrats to a Social Justice Pioneer

2010-01-04T13:56:00.000-08:00

On New Year's Day, Women's eNews released their list of "21 Leaders for the 21st Century," an annual compilation of women who are improving the lives of women and girls everywhere.

Among this year's leaders is Cecilia Boone, who serves on the Board of Women's Funding Network and is also the co-founder of the Boone Family Foundation, which is working in very innovative ways to make a better environment for women and girls in the great state of Texas.

Congratulations Cecilia! Keep on making change!

Are We There Yet?

2009-12-14T10:45:00.000-08:00

Something I missed in the last two weeks: The CEO of VerticalResponse posted an amusing but potent retort on the Inc. blog to Miss Venezuela's comment -- made during the Miss Universe contest Q&A -- that women and men are treated equally in the corporate sector:
“I do believe that we have reached the same level that men have. We must realize that there are no longer any barriers amongst us.”
Vertical Response CEO Janine Popick shares some interesting stats on women in leadership roles:

Only 13 percent of the Inc. 5000 list this year was made up of women.
Of the Forbes 67 Most Powerful People, just three are women.
In 2009 there are only 4 women governors.
Fifteen Fortune 500 companies are run by women, which is up an astonishing three from last year.
Another breakthrough for women this year? Ursula Burns is the first black women to be appointed to top post of a Fortune 500 company, Xerox.

A resolution for 2010: Let's pump up the numbers in this list!

A Changed Man

2009-12-10T09:30:00.000-08:00

Interesting post in PhilanTopic this week from Larry McGill, who is the Vice President of Research at the U.S.-based Foundation Center.

In the post, Mr. McGill recounts his experience attending an international meeting of women's funds focused on measuring the impact of social change philanthropy. His personal reflection does a good job of capturing the energy and, dare I say, magic that is in the air when committed, focused, talented women leaders are in one room to discuss solving the world's most pressing problems:

"What I discovered was that it was impossible for this man -- an outsider to the group in so many ways (in terms of gender, upbringing, experiences, and unearned advantages social, economic and political) -- to work side-by-side with a group of women of such deep commitment and accomplishment without being personally affected, indeed "changed." For me, courage and strength have a new face -- in fact, more than two dozen new faces. And even that isn't quite right -- because linked inseparably with each of these remarkable women are the lives of countless other women whom they would tell you are the most remarkable of all." (emphasis mine)

Have you been changed by a women's fund in 2009?

Stand Up for Gender Equality on World Poverty Day

2009-10-14T10:34:00.000-07:00

Take a Stand in the U.S.

Take a Stand Globally

Are You a Social Venture Capitalist?

2009-09-29T16:18:00.000-07:00

Watch this interview with Kavita Ramdas -- a self-described 'social venture capitalist' -- who talks about the challenges facing women as well as the immense opportunities during this moment of transformation in the world.

Notable quote (on "women's issues"): "I really don't know what that is. What issues should 51 percent of the world check out on?"

A Prescription for G20 Leaders: Invest in Girls

2009-09-23T10:14:00.000-07:00

Today's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette features sage advice from the leaders of two women's funds -- Heather Arnet at Women and Girls Foundation of Southwest Pennsylvania and Kavita Ramdas at Global Fund for Women.

Among the interesting facts:

The global recession is hitting girls the hardest because they are the first in their families to go without food, to be pulled from school and to lose jobs ... 22 million women will become unemployed, driving more girls into the sex trade.

Arnet and Ramdas also point out interesting data from Indonesia, which is one of only two countries in the G20 with a woman finance minister:

Sri Mulyani of Indonesia, is credited for her work in putting Jakarta's financial house in order by dismantling the cronyism that plagued Indonesia's financial architecture from the Suharto era. Indonesia now enjoys one of the most conservative balance sheets in the world and over 4 percent economic growth -- and Ms. Mulyani is credited for her role as a tough regulator.

What is your advice to G20 leaders?

On the Right Track?

2009-09-16T11:14:00.000-07:00

The New York Times reports on Ladies Specials in India -- commuter rail cars reserved for women travelers only. These trains, similar to the ones in other large cities around the world, like Cairo, are in response to the growing number of working women contributing to India's explosive economic growth. As more women participate in morning and evening rush hours, they are being exposed to increasing harassment from fellow male passengers.

But are separate compartments the solution to such a complex problem? This article shows how widespread systemic change is needed to solve the interconnected problem of personal security -- not just in India, but around the world. The article points out that violence against women has increased along with higher rates of participation in the workforce.

Thankfully, women's funds are addressing complex problems like the ones highlighted by the increase in Ladies Special cars in India.

What do you think are some solutions that can be applied in this situation that involve all of society?

Ludacris Gets the Philanthropy Bug

2009-09-08T18:04:00.000-07:00

Rapper Ludacris, who recently launched his own foundation, announced over the weekend he had given away 20 cars as a way "to give back to those who need it." Read the whole story here.

This story is encouraging because it puts a spotlight on philanthropy -- especially for young people who listen to Ludacris and come across this story while searching for information on the artist.

It also shows there is a consciousness that economic difficulties are not ending just because a few economic indicators are heading back up.

I am also hoping this is the beginning of a personal journey for Ludacris as he hones his philanthropic knowledge and begins learning about root causes and systemic change. Giving away cars does not solve problems. Hopefully Ludacris is on his way to becoming a donor activist capable of creating lasting, sustainable change by working with communities to solve the causes of problems.

Luda -- if you're reading -- check out Anderson Family Foundation. They're in Atlanta too and doing amazing work!

$ + ♀ = Δ

2009-09-04T12:45:00.000-07:00

More high-level recognition that putting money toward programs and policies that support women creates improved conditions for everyone, this time from the U.S. Agency for International Development.

A USAID staffer said they expect to increase funding for women's health by 50 percent in the next two years to address widespread societal poverty that results when women do not have equal and adequate access to healthcare. You can read more here.

While that comes as good news, it is likely not enough money, which is where women's funds make a critical difference by providing resources directly to women in communities most affected by inequality. And, unlike USAID, women's funds also provide major funding to women right here in the United States, where maternal health is unfortunately on par with many "developing" nations.

'He had Medicare'

2009-09-03T14:07:00.001-07:00

Associated Press reports that a health care reform supporter in Southern California bit off the pinky finger of a fellow protester with opposing views. Get the gory details here.

In a call with women's fund leaders today, it was sagely pointed out that the people screaming the loudest in these health reform debates are those who have their health care needs met.

Where are the voices of those who need health care the most -- especially women and people with low-to-no income?

Future Philanthropy

2009-08-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

This weekend The New York Times Sunday Magazine hits newsstands with a special edition focused on the power of women to create lasting positive change in society.

As part of this focus, the Times covers the rising power of women-led philanthropy, paying special attention to women's funds and the Women Moving Millions campaign. But of course!

Pick up the Magazine to read about the power of women and check out The Power of the Purse!

Let us know what you think? For example, does anyone find the art work unrepresentative?

Prosperity Is Calling

2009-08-12T15:35:00.001-07:00

We have re-launched our cell phone recycling program, this time with more money going back to participating women's funds.

Here's how it works: go to www.recellular.com/wfn and get a free shipping label, put it on a box and send your phone in. Recellular, our chosen recycler, breaks down the phone if it's too broken to reuse, and the proceeds from the parts go to the women's fund you designate.

If the phone is reusable, it is refurbished and given to women's shelters or senior centers for use as an emergency phone.

If you want to collect multiple phones at your office, school, place of worship or other location, you can download resources (posters, fact sheets) here: www.recellular.com/wfn_resources/

What Do You Think About 'The Philanthropist'?

2009-08-05T13:39:00.001-07:00

Our own Deborah Richardson writes:

I've been watching NBC's "The Philanthropist" and wonder if the show will turn a corner anytime soon and start following more closely the philanthropy of the man who inspired the show - instead of mixing "MacGyver" and "The Amazing Race."

Read her full post on Huffingtonpost.com!

More Than a Volunteer

2009-08-05T11:07:00.001-07:00

Today marks the final day at our organization for Rachel, who has been our Communications and Marketing Fellow for the last year. Rachel is a volunteer through Lutheran Volunteer Corps (LVC), which places recent college graduates at non-profit organizations in cities across the United States.

It has been our pleasure to work with Rachel and to share in her creativity, energy and professionalism. She has contributed so much to the fabric of our organization and she will really be missed!

We also want to praise LVC for the fantastic program they run. Their guidance and the development they provide for volunteers is phenomenal. We are looking forward to welcoming two new volunteers at the end of the month and cannot wait to partner with them to advance the women's funding movement.

So we wish Rachel the best as she begins another year with LVC, this time in Minneapolis. We will miss her greatly!

Summer Reading: What is Your Self-Worth?

2009-08-03T10:47:00.000-07:00

Philanthropist, activist, psychologist and family advocate, Cheryl Saban, Ph. D. , recently published her latest book titled What is Your Self-Worth?. The book sets out to help women define and value their personal self worth. It offers thought provoking perspectives on they way that women typically see their lives, questions for personal reflection and inspiring stories of other women's lives.

From the book:

"Why is it important to understand your true value or personal currency? I'm going to be bold and say that not only is it important to recognize your innate worth, it's critical that you do. Your survival and sense of well-being virtually depend upon it."

In order to help women around the world, the proceeds of the book will be going to women's fund. So this summer, dedicate your book club to funding women led solutions.

Click here to purchase your copy of What is Your Self-Worth? today.

Member Spotlight: Women's Fund of the La Crosse Foundation and the White House Rural Tour

2009-07-30T13:35:00.000-07:00

On July 16th, the White House Rural Tour - a series of events featuring top Obama Administration officials discussing how communities, states, and the federal government can work together to help strengthen rural America - stopped in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The Women's Fund of the La Crosse Foundation was there to welcome Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Trasportation Secretary Ray LaHood to La Crosse and ensure that the well-being of women and girls was included in the day's discussion.

Diane Raaum, President of the Women's Fund, had the opportunity to speak out. "...Over 80% of those seeking transportation help today are women. We know this administration is about solutions. The Women's Fund is also about solutions and doing work at a community level. There are [145] women's funds throughout the world that are effecting social change in their communities. [In Wisconsin] women only earn $.71 for every dollar that a man earns. Furthermore, the current economic downturn has disproportionately impacted women and their families. We had almost $70,000 in grant requests this year from our community but were only able to fund $19,000. Many of these requests were going to meet basic needs. So we would like to know how you are proposing to include women as a solution to these problems and how you are going to help women and families in need in the La Crosse area," Raaum said.

The Secretaries responded that President Obama "gets it" and has passed that message on to his cabinet. They noted that President Obama passed the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act and that supporting women and children is a priority for this administration. The Secretaries also noted the administration's goal to eliminate child hunger by 2015.

Congratulations to The Women's Fund of the La Crosse Foundation for making their voices heard and seizing this unique opportunity to raise the visibility of women's funds and the plight of women and girls during the economic downturn!

Post by Amy Moy, Interim Director, Communications and Marketing, Women's Funding Network

Increase in Minimum Wage Bad for the Economy?

2009-07-23T15:22:00.000-07:00

This Associated Press story includes comments from an Economist predicting the new increase in the federal minimum wage -- set to go into effect this Friday -- will lead to a bump in unemployment numbers: http://bit.ly/bZ8gV

What do you think?

Quick Hit on Women's Role in Food Security

2009-07-22T13:29:00.000-07:00

The intersection of gender and food security is an issue that seems to be generally overlooked. In our world, women make up the majority of people who produce our food, yet they typically don't own the land they work on. There is also evidence, that when food is scarce, women are the first family members to skip a meal.

In recent years, with the price of food has sky-rocketing, women around the world are disproportionately affected. But women should not be looked at a mere victims in this food crisis, but rather a means providing food security for families and communities. President Obama and legislators seem to be getting this point. Ritu Sharma, president and co-founder of Women Thrive Worldwide, wrote a great article on this topic. She says:

President Barack Obama has called upon Congress to double U.S. assistance for global agricultural development to more than $1 billion in 2010. The bipartisan Roadmap to End Global Hunger and Promote Food Security Act (H.R. 2817) co-sponsored by Jim McGovern, D-Mass., and Jo Ann Emerson, R-Ste. Genevieve, introduced last month, outlines a comprehensive strategy for U.S. leadership on this issue. It also recognizes that assistance should reach women farmers, not just farmers or small farmers.

Read the full article here.

Liberian Woman Takes on Colbert

2009-07-15T13:08:00.000-07:00

The Colbert Report

Mon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c

Leymah Gbowee

www.colbertnation.com

Colbert Report Full Episodes

Political Humor

Jeff Goldblum

While Stephen Colbert’s killer-comic timing usually shocks and stupefies his guests, he met his match last night with the Liberian peace activist Leymah Gbowee. Ms. Gbowee organized the courageous women of Liberia to bring an end to their devastating civil war, citing that they were fed up and could not take the terror and violence any longer and decided to do something about it.

Her poise and ability to keep Colbert engaged in the issues demonstrates that when you’ve taken a stand to the likes of human rights offenders like former Liberian Dictator Charles Taylor (currently on trial in The Hague for crimes against Sierra Leone), the Colbert Report ain’t so scary.

Leymah Gbowee and the women of Liberia are the subjects of the award-winning documentary Pray the Devil Back to Hell. Check out the interview (above) to get a taste.

Find out more about how African women are improving their communities.

(Post by Kristina)

Quick Thoughts on Judge Sotomayor's Hearing

2009-07-14T09:59:00.000-07:00

In following the confirmation hearings for Judge Sonia Sotomayor I have become increasingly frustrated with the emphasis being placed on her "wise Latina woman" comment. We should be praising Judge Sotomayor and including her because she does NOT match the uniform identity that currently dominates our Supreme Court.

These days, it is more important than ever that we diversify our leadership and include women in top decision making positions. With evidence that points to the success of organizations and institutions that include diverse perspectives in their leadership, we should be looking to these models for moving our country and the world forward.

Have you been following the confirmation hearings? What are your thoughts?

Is "The Philanthropist" Good for Philanthropy?

2009-07-08T15:50:00.001-07:00

Last night the third episode of NBC's new show The Philanthropist aired. One would think that a prime time TV show focusing on philanthropy would be good for promoting the work of foundations and funds around the world who generally struggle to make their work seem exciting to a wide audience. However, the show really misses the mark and in fact provides a rather counterproductive depiction of today's philanthropy.

Where to begin...

The show has already been labeled racist and neocolonial, and I think it can also be called sexist and comes off as an unrealistic and unsustainable model of "philanthropy" -- which is portrayed on the show as random acts of charity rather than social change philanthropy. I am hoping that the story and characters develop out of this macho and imperialistic form of giving, but from the first couple of episodes I am not convinced.

Here are some of my reactions to the first couple of episodes:

The show reinforces a very patriarchal model of philanthropy (white man giving to poor people). The philanthropy is not democratized and it fails to lift up voices and solutions besides those of the western world.

It upholds what I consider an “old model” of charity -- where solutions come top down and are not necessarily sustainable (all of the “philanthropy” that the show actually depicts is very much random acts of charity rather than sustainable systemic philanthropy, like getting a little girl in Burma/Myanmar a kidney transplant, or delivering vaccines to a village in Nigeria).

It also portrays a linear model of development where the global north is “saving” or “helping” the global south, not lifting up and providing resources for solutions from on the ground. The show also reinforces very negative stereotypes of the global south, portraying countries like Nigeria and Burma/Myanmar as dangerous, primitive, corrupt and unable to help their own people, which perpetuating a negative view of these places.

And the show seemed sexist to me. The women who were in the show were all secondary characters and didn’t offer much in the way of solutions to the problems the main character faced. The story line also continually circled back to the achievements/concerns/emotions of the main male lead.

It is also rather disappointing because the work of Bobby Sager, who the main character is based off of, is really inspiring work. Lets hope that NBC takes The Philanthropist away from this James Bond type charity and focuses on sustainable philanthropy.

Have you seen the show yet? What is your take?

Working to Stop Domestic Violence Before it Starts

2009-07-08T09:50:00.000-07:00

In the past few weeks it seems like violence against women has been getting a lot of press attention. In our news round ups we have been seeing headlines like Domestic Violence can also Include Economic Abuse and Spousal Rape Laws Continue to Evolve. People have discussed the idea that domestic violence has been on the rise due to the economic crisis, and of course the press has been paying close attention to the Rihanna vs. Chris Brown case.

Even with the announcement of the new White House Advisor on Violence Against Women, the press continues to fail reporting on successful and innovative solutions to domestic violence. The Women's Fund of Central Indiana has been working to break the cycle of domestic violence by educating youth.

"I am really proud of a $150,000 grant Women's Fund gave to the Ruth Lilly Health Education Center (RLHEC)... RLHEC created a curriculum to help the students learn to recognize appropriate behaviors and what to do if they are currently in or someday are part of an unhealthy relationship."

Read more about this awesome program at the Women's Fund of Central Indiana's blog.

Keep up the great work!

What's Happening With Women's Economic Security? A News Review for the Week Ending June 26

2009-06-26T11:56:00.000-07:00

The Washington Post focuses on a 19-year-old mother of two who has stayed in school with help from a program supporting teen mothers

The Dallas Observer profiles a program that seeks to end the cycle of teen pregnancy and poverty by focusing on low-income girls’ etiquette and self-esteem

In an op-ed in the Ithaca Citizen, contributor Jennifer Wilkins argues in favor of extending Women, Infants, and Children program benefits to farmers markets, writing that doing so will provide better nutrition to low-income families

As reported by the Associated Press, Illinois will be making more nutritious foods available under the Women, Infants, and Children program
The Bridgewater Courier News interviews a local mother who has a new home of her own thanks to Habitat for Humanity’s Women-Build events

This news roundup has been crossposted by Lisa Kays at Ask Us How: The Washington Area Women's Foundation blog.

Visit the Women and Poverty page on Spotlight on Poverty and Opportunity!

Spotlight on Poverty and Opportunity is a foundation-led, non-partisan initiative aimed at ensuring that our political leaders take significant actions to reduce poverty and increase opportunity in the United States. We bring together diverse perspectives from the political, policy, advocacy and foundation communities to engage in an ongoing dialogue focused on finding genuine solutions to the economic hardship confronting millions of Americans.

News Round Up: June 23, 2009

2009-06-24T12:06:00.000-07:00

Here is our news round up of yesterdays coverage - www.womensfundingnetwork.org/News-June-23. Women's Funding Network made the news for our new report, and continued coverage and discussion of women in Iran.

Check it out, we updated our News Round Up page - www.womensfundingnetwork.org/Daily-News.

New Report: Women's Philanthropy on the Rise!

2009-06-23T14:57:00.000-07:00

The Women's Funding Network and the Foundation Center released a new report on Monday, June 22 called Accelerating Change for Women and Girls: The Role of Women's Funds. The report discusses trends in philanthropy for and by women. Read a short excerpt from the executive summary below:

Although the report clearly states that women have been making an impact in and through the world of philanthropy, we all know, our work is far from over. Click here to read the full executive summary and order a hard copy of the full report. Thank you to all of our member funds who participated in the research for the report.

Check out press coverage of the report here, here and here.

News Round Up: June 22, 2009

2009-06-23T14:37:00.000-07:00

Here is the News Round Up from Monday, June 22 and the weekend - http://www.womensfundingnetwork.org/News-June-22.

We will be posting the our news digest on our news page daily (just click where it says Daily Coverage of Issue Affecting Women)!

Happy reading!

My Own News Roundup for the Week Ending 6/19

2009-06-19T16:24:00.000-07:00

The She Change is taking a break from the usual Friday news roundup from Spotlight on Poverty.

So feast your eyes on a women's news cornucopia focusing on all the issues women's funds focus on.

Health:
An Op-Ed from Fort Worth Star-Telegram writer Linda Campbell calls on lawmakers to put politics aside when creating health care reform (published in Sacramento Bee).

Washington Post writer Ezra Klein shares the full text of the Finance Committee’s Health Reform Outline.

A report in Forbes claims global health funding doesn’t always reach its intended recipients.

NBC reports on a Gallup poll showing who Americans feel should be held accountable for health care reform.

A Washington Post report looks at why teen births are on the rise.

The Associated Press reports on a poll by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation that shows many Americans are concerned about the costs of health care:

An Op-Ed in the Hudson Valley Press says maternal mortality is a crucial human rights issue that needs to be addressed.

NPR reports on the risks the economic crisis is placing on global health.

An Op-Ed in the Albany Times-Union blasts New York state lawmakers for squandering gains in women’s reproductive health.

A U.S. News article talks about Obama’s strategies for an abortion policy.

The Atlanta Journal Constitution shares a study discussed by HealthDay News that shows depressed pregnant African-American women are at increased risk for giving birth to premature babies.

The Wichita Eagle profiles a Colorado OBGYN who continues providing reproductive health care despite threats.

Read the full text of President Obama’s address to the American Medical Association, where he told the story of a mother’s battle with health care costs after being diagnosed with cancer.

Health on the Blogs:

Planned Parenthood ad campaign

pressures pregnant women in the workforce are facing

a report from Save the Children

Gates Foundation’s $258 million HIV initiative in India

Feminist Peace Network

Violence:
Eve Ensler slams world governments in a Guardian Op-Ed for ignoring Congolese women survivors of sexual assault and violence.

The Jakarta Post reports how survivors of abuse are often charged by police for reporting their batterers.

A new survey shows 1 in 4 South African men have admitted to raping women (Associated Press).

A bill being proposed in the New York state legislature would increase penalties for violence committed by abortion clinic protesters.

Almost $2 million of Washington state’s economic stimulus money will go to programs that fight violence against women (King County NBC affiliate).

A California doctor advises women living in abusive relationships in a San Luis Obispo Tribune opinion.

The Tri-State Defender (Memphis) laments justice is elusive for women survivors of violence.

The Economy:
NOW will highlight equal-pay in their weekend summit, reports the Indianapolis Star.

A USAToday column looks at women in the workplace and their role in our economy.

An Associated Press feature claims the market for sex has diminished amid the global recession.

The Christian Science Monitor reports the worldwide economic downturn has fueled human trafficking.

The Economy on the Blogs:

how Africa is being affected by the global recession

Feministing takes a USA Today columnist to task

Philanthropy:
The Seattle Times “Business of Giving” blog profiles young professionals who are honing their philanthropic skills.

The Associated Press covers Michelle Obama’s call for philanthropic institutions to support efforts to rebuild the economy.

A Bergen Record feature discusses a women’s giving circle’s support of teen mothers.

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports on the trend of Impact100 – a group of 100 women who pool gifts of $1,000 each to benefit relatively unknown grassroots organizations in their communities:

The Neighborhood Star profiles two young rap artists who performed a concert to benefit a community organization that mentors girls.

Philanthropy on the Blogs:

Where do you donate

financial literacy for girls is so crucial

Can Women Save the Economy

more women on corporate boards

trend of “mega gifts” in philanthropy

Iran:
The Associated Press reports conservative women are joining Iran's opposition street protests.

Forbes discusses feminism in Iran in light of the current election drama.

The Guardian says this is still a time of hope for Iranian women, as their campaigning has had a slow but sure effect.

The Baltimore Sun reports on what unrest in Iran means for women.

Iran on the Blogs:

Feministe

discusses the rising influence of women in Iran

Education:
A San Jose Mercury News columnist warns against the persistent tech gap between boys and girls.

A Times of India article reports education is improving the lives of rural girls.

An Atlanta Journal Constitution feature profiles a program that shows at-risk girls how to produce plays.

A Wall Street Journal online guide answers the question: How Can Young Women Develop a Leadership Style?

Miscellaneous:
Voice of America reports on the United Nations call for nations to address displaced women around the world.

Change.org outlines why women in the media matter to progressive leadership.

NPR reports on the new White House office on women.

NPR profiles Katie Orenstein’s Op-Ed project for women.

Happy Reading!

Before and After (or answer to the question: What's a Women's Fund?)

2009-06-17T15:10:00.000-07:00

A lot of people are unfamiliar with women's funds -- what they are and what they do -- and I think this article explains their impact in at least one of the issue areas they work on: violence.

Read about the impact The Women's Fund of Birmingham has had on the community it serves.

This paragraph sums up quite nicely how women's funds give more than money -- sharing connections, expertise and best practices to break down a problem at its core and make changes in the way a community tackles a problem:

As part of the Voices Against Violence initiative, The Women's Fund made a grant to the Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence to provide training to court and law enforcement, funded a YWCA court advocate and purchased digital cameras for the Birmingham Police Department. The ACADV used these funds as the local match to attract federal money for two purposes: a shared information system prototype so local courts could look up perpetrators' previous convictions on domestic violence charges and seed money for warrants and subpoenas to be served in Operation Hit Back.

The momentum has continued to build with new partners coming on board.

Men and Feminism

2009-06-16T09:06:00.000-07:00

Click on the poster to enlarge the image (in a PDF).

Deborah Siegel -- who blogs over at Girlw/Pen! -- is holding a really cool event in Brooklyn on June 20 in honor of Father's Day. You can read her preview on her blog (and also watch a video from a past event with some of the other women who will be there -- including the most awesome Courtney Martin).

If you are looking for some inspiration on Father's Day and you're in the New York City area, go check it out.

Father Knows Best? Get the Latest Roundup of News on Women and Poverty for the Week Ending June 12!

2009-06-12T16:16:00.000-07:00

The Washington Post covers a study showing the health disparities experienced by black women and citing poverty as a major cause

In an op-ed in the Washington Times, guest columnist Rebecca Hagelin argues that fathers are essential to family well being and economic viability, and that mothers and children are more likely to fall into poverty without stable husbands and fathers

As reported in the Boston Globe, a joint health venture between a Catholic hospital chain and a healthcare company to provide insurance to low-income patients is facing criticism from Catholic leaders for providing abortion coverage

In a report on a summer camp program for low-income teens, the Los Angeles Times highlights a youngster who was able to overcome bulimia thanks in part to the support she found at the program

A farmers market profiled by the Boston Globe accepts vouchers from the Women, Infants, and Children program

A Fort Worth all-girls school will cater toward low-income students, according to the Fort Worth Star Telegram

Taking a Stand for Women's Security

2009-06-11T13:42:00.000-07:00

The current administration has made strides for women’s equity since coming to office; from signing into law the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, to creating the White House Council on Women and Girls, and appointing of many strong women to positions of power, our President and his administration have been an advocates for women and girls world wide and we are seeing the effects. Just yesterday, the House passed legislation that approved the creation of the Office of Global Women’s Issues within the U.S. State Department.

However, in light of the recent killing of Dr. George Tiller, we are reminded of how far we still have to go in order to ensure true security for women both in the US and abroad. It is crucial that we protect the right to safe and accessible health care for all women, particularly those in conflict areas where studies show that funding for women’s health is drastically decreased. Women and doctors should not be intimidated, threatened or harassed for seeking or providing reproductive health care, family planning materials, and birth control.

With our nation currently focusing on the issue of health care in the United States, we must work to ensure that women’s perspectives and concerns are brought to the table both here and abroad. Global women’s health is an issue that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has deemed a priority of the Office of Global Women’s Issues, among other issues including poverty reduction, and freedom from violence. Though many opposition groups are attempting to derail the passage of this legislation, we know that the effects of a woman in good health can have a ripple effect throughout society.

Schwarzenegger's Barbaric Cuts Will Leave California a Weakling

2009-06-05T10:47:00.000-07:00

At noon on Sunday mornings the church I attend in downtown Oakland distributes about 100 bags of food. Those who line up to receive these bags are usually elderly residents and a few homeless men who live in the neighborhood. Last Sunday as I looked at the line forming, it was a starkly different group of people—many more single young men in their 20s and 30s and mothers with their young children. In the end, we packed and distributed 223 bags of food.

This very same week our Governor announced his proposed elimination of most major supports for public assistance to our state's poor and disabled residents. He proposed that we eliminate CalWORKS, the program that provides very limited cash support (a maximum of $652 per month for a family of three) to low and no income families with children. This would leave 1.3 million Californians with no cash support, most of whom are single mothers with significant barriers—access to affordable childcare, disability or domestic violence—to employment in an economy where it is very difficult for unemployed people with strong skills to find jobs.

The Governor also proposed the elimination of Healthy Families, a program that provides health coverage to low income children, and two programs created by Governor Wilson: the Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) and the California Food Assistance Program.

CAPI provides core assistance to about 10,500 mostly elderly Asian women, many of whom immigrated here after the conflicts in Southeast Asia. These are the women we see on Sundays at the food pantry because they cannot live on their current income. Women who, despite their advanced age, stand in line for 2-3 hours leaning on their walkers in order to get a bag of food that contains one can of vegetables, one can of fruit, one can of soup, a small can of tuna or chicken, cereal, milk, a grain or beans and on a good day a few pieces of fresh produce. At the end of this wait, they struggle to walk home with food that will last a day or two.

If the California Food Assistance Program (state funded Food Stamps for legal immigrants) were eliminated, 23,700 people would lose their food assistance and $30 million would be cut from the economy. That’s because these programs are mostly funded by federal dollars. The portion of state funding varies from 10% to 33% of the total expenditure. Ending these programs not only leaves federal dollars on the table but further decimates city and county budgets and creates greater need for nonprofit and faith-based social service programs—programs that are already under-funded and over-extended.

The economic concerns are the least important. How we as a state treat "the least of these" matters the most. As the Governor was announcing his severe cuts he talked about California standing on the edge of a cliff with a gun to its head. It is the Governor who is standing on the edge of this cliff and throwing over the edge poor women, poor children, the disabled, the elderly and the mental ill. Is this the California we want?

There are solutions. These solutions, however, demand an increase in State revenues, skillful budget cutting that protects those least able to protect themselves and a legislature that can move from being positional to being true problem solvers.

We must communicate to our elected officials that we would be receptive to thoughtful tax increases and that we expect them to stop pointing fingers and digging in their heels. We elected them to be problem solvers, and if there was ever a time when we needed cooperative and creative problem solving it is now.

Posted by Judy Patrick, president and CEO of the Women's Foundation of California, a 30-year-old public foundation working to make California the healthiest, safest and most economically prosperous place in the world to live.

Women and Poverty in the News, Week Ending June 5

2009-06-05T10:37:00.000-07:00

As part of a call to reduce immigration, Christian Science Monitor op-ed contributor Lawrence Harrison cites cultural "problems" that he claims immigrants bring from Latin America, including high rates of teen pregnancy and single motherhood

A Chicago Sun Times column focuses on Mama Brenda, a Chicago spoken word poet who performs outreach to single mothers and others in need

The Washington Post reports on a program that offers at-risk girls mentors and healthy activities

The Los Angeles Times profiles two sisters who benefit from a program that sends low-income girls to summer camp

Chicago Sun Times columnist Mary Mitchell, who is currently battling breast cancer, asks for more assistance for low-income women struggling with the disease

A Philadelphia Daily News story on the difficulty of getting into a special charter school for children from foster homes interviews a mother desperate to get her daughter into the program

In the News: Women and Poverty, Week Ending May 29

2009-05-28T17:09:00.000-07:00

The New York Times profiles a nonprofit that provides free clothing to assist low-income women entering the work force

A Chicago Sun Times column focuses on Mama Brenda, a Chicago spoken word poet who performs outreach to single mothers and others in need

A new program is encouraging healthy eating by increasing the value of food stamps for low-income mothers who shop at farmers markets, according to the Washington Post

The Los Angeles Times notes that among the proposed cuts from California’s budget are treatment for breast and cervical cancer for illegal immigrants and women older than 65

As reported by the Albuquerque Journal, the economic downturn has forced a local program for low-income girls to merge with a parallel program for boys

A Chicago Tribune article profiling a program that sends kids from a troubled area to summer camp to provide both enrichment and safety quotes a mom who is concerned for her son’s safety in their Chicago neighborhood

In a report appearing in USA Today, a single mom who lost her job is among those who send their children to a school catering specifically to homeless children

As covered by the Chicago Tribune, a clinic for low-income women is among those being closed due to financial constraints

In an op-ed in the Centre Daily Times, the author argues for stronger pre-natal health coverage for low-income women

It's About Time to Increase Women's Leadership

2009-05-19T09:27:00.000-07:00

Women's Funding Network Board member Jacki Zehner writes on her Purse Pundit blog today about the need for increased women's leadership in the corporate sphere -- a call to action echoed today on the Financial Times Op-Ed page.

The lede paragraph in the FT piece is especially juicy for this sentence: "Many boards, especially in financial services, are in flux after the testosterone-fuelled excesses that led to financial disaster."

I'm not pointing this out to start a war of the sexes, however. The FT is merely responding to what is a long-standing desire of many for gender balance in the corporate world. And Jacki's piece previews detailed work she will soon release -- in partnership with the National Council for Research on Women -- that links women's leadership in the financial sector with increased prosperity for all.

Stay tuned for more on women's leadership!

The Scoop on Women and Girls for the Week Ending May 15

2009-05-15T13:58:00.000-07:00

An editorial appearing in the Chicago Sun Times argues that more support for single moms will benefit the next generation

The Washington Times profiles a Washington, D.C. resident who is known for her charity work with low-income mothers

In an op-ed for the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, a contributor in favor of Notre Dame’s controversial invitation to President Obama argues that he disapproves of bishops’ support of pro-life candidates, which he believes has led to a widening of the gap between rich and poor

As reported in the Atlanta Journal Constitution, several clinics for low-income patients, including a women and children’s center, are slated to close in Georgia

The Detroit News reports that Michigan’s cuts of certain programs may hurt its chances of receiving federal matching funds allocated to low-income mothers and pregnant women

A Milwaukee Journal Sentinel commentary on a low-income clinic struggling to stay open notes that most of its clientele is single mothers and their children

A USA Today piece on stimulus funds going to Indian tribes notes the benefits it will provide to people like Naomi Sitting Bear, a mother living with her family in dilapidated housing, as well its support for domestic violence programs

A Chicago Tribune piece on new housing for homeless and low-income residents interviews a woman, recently released from jail, who believes that the housing will provide her with new stability and opportunities

The Miami Herald reports on a disabled woman who was given housing from Habitat for Humanity on Mother’s Day

The Governor of Rhode Island has proposed a plan that would cut state aid to low-income pregnant women, as noted by the Associated Press

This news roundup has been crossposted by Lisa Kays at Ask Us How: The Washington Area Women's Foundation blog.

Spotlight on Poverty and Opportunity is a foundation-led, non-partisan initiative aimed at ensuring that our political leaders take significant actions to reduce poverty and increase opportunity in the United States. We bring together diverse perspectives from the political, policy, advocacy and foundation communities to engage in an ongoing dialogue focused on finding genuine solutions to the economic hardship confronting millions of Americans.

News Roundup: Women and Poverty, Week Ending May 8

2009-05-08T13:44:00.001-07:00

Below are the latest links to news items in the U.S. that discuss women and poverty. These are brought to you by Spotlight on Poverty and Opportunity, a national foundation-led initiative, that has collaborated with the Women’s Funding Network to bring you the latest news and analysis on women and poverty.

Here are this week’s links:

• In an op-ed in the New York Times, Nicholas Kristof brings attention to the plight of poor, minority teen girls who become trapped in prostitution

• According to a study reported by the Miami Herald, black women are more likely to die of breast cancer, in part because of poverty

• As noted by the Kansas City Star, the recession has increased reports of domestic violence, with a local shelter reporting that most victims are low-income

• The Los Angeles Times highlights a rise in the increase in child support modifications, as parents losing income during the recession often find themselves unable to provide money owed to their children and former spouses, now often single mothers

• The St. Louis Post Dispatch covers a Habitat for Humanity project that brought together 650 women to build houses for people with low incomes

• A New York Times piece on the expanding role of community colleges notes that three-quarters of students at a school profiled in the article are women

• The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports on a local organization that provides a variety of education and support services to low-income mothers

• In a report appearing in the Charlotte Observer, a free program brings nurses to low-income mothers

• The New Jersey Home News Tribune reports on a local community action program offering job training to women who have lost income from a spouse

• A Kansas City Star article focuses on a local woman who, herself having grown up in poverty, has founded and operates a community services organization

To learn more about Spotlight visit www.spotlightonpoverty.org

To sign up for our weekly updates with the latest news, opinion and research from around the country, click here.

This news roundup has been crossposted by Lisa Kays at Ask Us How: The Washington Area Women's Foundation blog.

Spotlight on Poverty and Opportunity is a foundation-led, non-partisan initiative aimed at ensuring that our political leaders take significant actions to reduce poverty and increase opportunity in the United States. We bring together diverse perspectives from the political, policy, advocacy and foundation communities to engage in an ongoing dialogue focused on finding genuine solutions to the economic hardship confronting millions of Americans.

A Woman Leader Under the Gun

2009-04-30T20:18:00.000-07:00

Taking a break from sessions at the Women's Funding Network conference to post something that brings me down to earth with the realities women are facing in the world, but also inspires me to continue fighting for women's equality and for human rights.

Women are taking the lead in pushing for human rights all over the world and some of them are risking their lives to do it.

Mu Sochua, a parliamentarian and human rights activist in Cambodia who is also a Board member at Global Fund for Women, posted a letter on the GFW blog and Vital Voices that details the danger she is facing for voicing opposition to the Cambodian government.

Because she has urged for change and accountability and because she has called the government out for corruption, she is being threatened with an indefinite stay in an infamous prison.

Check out this profile of Mu Sochua at Independent Media Center, then read Mu Sochua's letter.

Mu Sochua is a role model for how women's leadership is bringing change. Please comment if you have any ideas for how we can urge fair treatment for her.

Live Blogging: Case Study in Fund Blogging with Lisa Kays of the Washington Area Women's Foundation

2009-04-30T07:53:00.000-07:00

We're here at the Women's Funding Network annual conference in Atlanta in a workshop on how funds and foundations can start their own blogs, or participate here at The She Change. Deborah Siegel, of Girl with Pen, and Courtney E. Martin, of feministing, just outlined why blogging is a great opportunity for the women's funding movement, offering a bit about the nuts and bolts of starting one on blogger.com, and are now welcoming Lisa Kays, who will be talking about her experience of blogging at the Washington Area Women's Foundation.

Lisa: When I came to the foundation, I had no experience as an organizational blogger. I had a personal blog, so I knew about the mechanics, but I had no idea how to start or build an organizational blog.

[Whew!]

Starting tools:
probono webshop set up a blog
one enthusiastic staff person (intern or volunteer is great too!)
board buy in (sort of) [room laughs]
two board champions
an experimental open spirit (she was new, which was a blessing in some ways)

Lisa sees blogging as interesting, competitive, fun.

She started out writing very researched posts, light on opinion. Very straightforward. A board member said, "Could you please take this a little less seriously?" FREEDOM! And off she went.

Lisa now writes posts on economic security, but she also posts on Grey's Anatomy and Avenue Q. "Intersplice the personal. A blog is something you can play with," she says.

Question from the audience: have donors or board members emailed with concerns?

Lisa: Not once. If I have a tickle, I run it by somebody. You can be engaging and personal and interesting, without offending. It is a challenge.

Lisa points to the Blogging Guidelines that she wrote for the Washington Area Foundation. These became the "frame of her blog." This frame now guides readers, staff, and everyone else involved.

Question from the audience: How does an organizational blog develop?

Phase One:
Give thought to who you want to be; what do you want your content to look like?

Phase Two:
Reach out. Send personal emails to folks with blogs, invite people to guest blog, ask to be linked to or placed on the blog roll (for terminology, check here).

Lisa thinks of herself as the "branding czar." (She tried to get it on her card, but no luck.)

Question from the audience: When you have another voice posting on your blog, do you label it as such?

Lisa: YES, absolutely. Name on the post and a bio post. No anonymous posts.

Question from the audience: How many hours a week are you spending on your blog?

Lisa: It's gotten to be less and less. I think blogs actually save time. It's like a start up business. Now, I would say that I spend anywhere from half an hour to two hours a week. In the beginning it was an hour a day. If staff say something even remotely interesting, I would say, "That would make a great blog post!" Sometimes I ghost writes them, but a lot of times they blog themselves. Blogging is also a great way to reach out to donors and not ask them for money. After two and half years, I'm barely writing twice a month. Now I get emails requesting to blog. If you invest in being an evangelist for the blog early on, over time you're just setting up posts. Blog at least three times a week to keep it dynamic. After two and half years, we now get picked up by other bloggers without me soliciting them. We have a lot more guest bloggers. Readership is going up. It's been a great way to build relationships with our donors beyond asking them to write a check. Finally, I've also had success with grantee partners who want to blog.

Posted by Courtney Martin

News Round Up: Women and Poverty (week ending April 24, 2009)

2009-04-26T18:02:00.000-07:00

Spotlight on Poverty and Opportunity, a national foundation-led initiative, is excited to collaborate with The Washington Area Women’s Foundation to bring you the latest news and analysis on women and poverty.

Here’s this week’s news:

• The Chicago Sun Times reports on a charity that provides gowns to help low-income girls attend prom.

• A Miami Herald story on local African-American leaders highlights a minister who, herself having once been a homeless mother, has started an organization helping struggling women.

• The Boston Globe tells the story of a breast cancer survivor who received early detection because of a state insurance program for the poor.

• In a story on the troubled lives of Hispanic teenagers in a low-income suburb, the New York Times focuses on a young woman who has tried to reform herself after being a member of a local gang.

• The Pittsburgh Post Gazette profiles a young woman with an Ivy League education who will devote her first year out of college to serving the poor with AmeriCorps.

• Among the questions surrounding a law that could limit health care for illegal immigrants are its effects on screenings for breast and cervical cancer for low-income women, according to the Salt Lake Tribune.

• The St. Petersburg Times runs a story on a clinic that has provided free cancer screening for hundreds of low-income women.

• The Associated Press reports that federal stimulus funds will allow New Mexico’s Women, Infants, and Children supplemental food program to serve 1,600 additional low-income women and their children.

To learn more about Spotlight, visit www.spotlightonpoverty.org. To sign up for our weekly updates with the latest news, opinion and research from around the country, click here.

Posted by Lisa Kays, Washington Area Women's Foundation; crossposted at Ask Us How: The Washington Area Women's Foundation

News Round-Up: Women and Poverty (week ending April 10, 2009)

2009-04-12T15:15:00.000-07:00

Here’s this week’s news:

• In an op-ed in the Atlanta Journal Constitution arguing against new, harsher penalties for speeders, the author cites the example of a single mother losing her license after getting pulled over on the way to work and to drop her kids off at day care.

• As noted in a McClatchy report carried in the Miami Herald, 50 advocacy organizations have come together to ask President Obama to support the hiring and training of women, minorities, and the poor to work on new federal construction projects.

• The Arizona Republic reports that a college scholarship fund for single moms has seen its applications jump from 40 to almost 300 within the past year.

• A South Florida Sun Sentinel article on a new program helping low- and moderate-income residents move into foreclosed housing focuses on a single mother excited to own her first home.

Posted by Lisa Kays, Washington Area Women's Foundation; crossposted at Ask Us How: The Washington Area Women's Foundation

Spotlight on Poverty and Opportunity is a foundation-led, non-partisan initiative aimed at ensuring that our political leaders take significant actions to reduce poverty and increase opportunity in the United States. We bring together diverse perspectives from the political, policy, advocacy and foundation communities to engage in an ongoing dialogue focused on finding genuine solutions to the economic hardship confronting millions of Americans.