For Women's History Month and International Women's Day, consider supporting nonprofits that promote gender equality and women's empowerment.
Women's History Month and March 8th (International Women’s Day) is a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions and achievements of women who have helped shape our world, from suffragettes who fought for women's right to vote, to trailblazing leaders who have shattered barriers in various fields. It's also a time to reflect on the challenges that women have faced and continue to face, and to acknowledge the work that still needs to be done to achieve gender equality.
Gender inequality has been prevalent throughout history, particularly affecting women of minority populations who have faced increased oppression. Women's History Month offers us an opportunity not only to commemorate the achievements and contributions of women but also to persist in the battle against global gender injustices.
Nonprofits promoting women's empowerment need your support now
Acquiring necessary funding is a huge hurdle for nonprofits, and especially so for nonprofits supporting women and gender equality. Nearly 50,000 nonprofit organizations in the U.S. are dedicated to women and girls, yet they consistently receive less than 2% of all charitable giving. Of those 50,000 nonprofits, about 71% have budgets of less than $50,000, including staff wages and benefits. Suffice to say that this month serves as a great excuse to support organizations that are helping 50% of the world’s population.
It’s especially important to support nonprofits that think globally but can act locally. You’ll notice that several of these nonprofits operate worldwide but partner with local groups and orgs to more effectively help the communities they serve. This type of nonprofit management is called “locally driven, network supported” (LDNS) and can be successful in solving complex social challenges.
How you can support Women's History Month this March
In honor of Women’s History Month, Change is highlighting some remarkable nonprofits that advocate for women's empowerment and gender equality worldwide.
1. PERIOD.
Did you know that two in five people have struggled to purchase period products in their lifetime due to lack of income? PERIOD. strives to ensure menstrual equity and access to period products for all individuals. It’s grown into a global movement with over 400 chapters worldwide, advocating for policy changes, distributing menstrual products to those in need, and educating communities on menstrual health and hygiene.
The Malala Fund seeks to ensure that all girls across the globe have access to 12 years of free, safe, quality education. With 130 million girls around the world out of school, it’s more important than ever to advocate for education – especially secondary education. They work with partners to advocate for policy changes, invest in local education initiatives, and amplify the voices of girls and young women. Since its inception in 2013, the Malala Fund has invested in education programs in several countries, including Pakistan, Nigeria, and Brazil.
Source: Malala Fund
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3. Women’s Global Education Project
The Women's Global Education Project works to empower women and girls in rural communities in Senegal and Kenya through education, to build better lives, and to foster more equitable communities. They work with local partners to provide access to education, promote women's leadership, and advocate for gender equality. Over 99% of WGEP scholars stay in school each year, and communities are increasingly supportive of their daughters’ education. In 2023, they will open a state-of-the-art library and computer center in rural Kenya to further expand their impact.
Source: Women's Global Education Project
4. MADRE
MADRE works to advance women's human rights, promote peace, and support communities affected by war and natural disasters. The organization was founded in 1983 by a group of feminist activists who sought to address the impact of conflict on women and children. MADRE works with local organizations and grassroots activists to provide resources and support to women and families in need. Their programs include providing food and shelter to refugees, supporting women's leadership and empowerment, and advocating for policy changes that promote human rights and social justice.
Girls Who Code aims to close the gender gap in technology by teaching girls computer science skills and providing them with opportunities to explore careers in technology. Girls Who Code offers coding classes and summer immersion programs for girls in grades 3-12, as well as after-school clubs and mentorship programs. The organization has reached thousands of girls across the United States and has a mission to teach one million girls to code by 2025.
Source: Girls Who Code
6. Look What She Did!
If you’re searching for some badass, little-known women to get inspired by, look no further. Look What She Did! produces short films about women who have made a significant impact in various fields but have been overlooked in history. By celebrating the achievements of these remarkable women, Look What She Did! is aiming to inspire future generations. The short films are available for free on their website and have been screened at film festivals, museums, and educational institutions.
Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day offer a moment for us to recognize the countless contributions of women and to take action toward gender equality. Nonprofits advocating for women's rights are a critical part of this movement, yet they often face significant funding obstacles. With more than 50,000 nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to women and girls, supporting these organizations should be a priority. Let’s support these highlighted organizations and work towards a world where women are valued, celebrated, and empowered.
We invite you to feature any or all of these nonprofits in your existing or future charitable giving campaigns – even (and especially) beyond March. Learn more about ways you can support these amazing organizations by scheduling a call with us today.
