The Women's Foundation of Genesee Valley Celebrates Its 30th Anniversary!

CELEBRATING 30YEARS

Dear Friends,

ANNIVERSARY

As we mark a significant milestone - our 30th anniversary – we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible journey of the Women’s Foundation of Genesee Valley Three decades ago, in February of 1994, a group of nine visionary women gathered with a dream. They aimed to ignite lasting social change by empowering women and girls in our community Their collective vision paved the way for so many and their determination has allowed WFGV to become a beacon of hope and strength

This year, we are celebrating the power of transformation and the beauty of seeing women and girls soar without boundaries Last year, we celebrated one such milestone with the "Power Her Forward Girls Conference”. This event brought together over 150 young girls, ages 14 – 18 from all over the Greater Rochester Area, providing them with inspiration, guidance, and the tools to build a brighter future.

This year, we are taking further strides in our mission by hosting educational capacitybuilding programs for women and curating experiences for young girls to learn how to start a business, invest, make healthy life choices, negotiate their salaries effectively, and understand the value of community service. This is just the tip of the iceberg. We are calling all women back into the fold by asking them to give of their time and treasure

The named initiatives are crucial in paving the way for a future where women are not only participants but leaders in every sphere of society However, the realization of these ambitions rely heavily on the generosity and support of individuals like you. Your contributions, both in terms of financial gifts and volunteer time, are the lifeblood of our foundation They enable us to bring these empowering programs to life and helps to continue the vital work of fostering growth, equality, and opportunity for women and girls.

To amplify

As we celebrate this significant 30th anniversary, we invite you to join us in making a difference A gift to the Women's Foundation of Genesee Valley is more than a donation; it's a transformative investment that uplifts the lives of the women and girls who are at the heart and soul of this community.

Together, we can continue to build on the legacy of those nine pioneering women who gathered all those years ago We can forge a path towards a future where every woman and girl in the Greater Rochester Area has the opportunity to realize her full potential

Thank you for considering this opportunity to make a difference Your support is not just valued; it is essential.

With Heartfelt Thanks,

Krystle Ellis , Executive Director

2023WASAMAZING!

Reflections from our Board Chair, Sydney Bell

As we step into a new season, it is with deep honor that we pause to thank each donor, grantee, volunteer, board, community, and staff member past and present Their dedication and hard work are the pillars upon which we build our future, making what many deemed impossible, possible

The Power Her Forward Girls Conference emerged as a beacon of success, drawing in eager participants at the door, with constant inquiries from families ready to enroll their daughters. The air buzzed with excitement as name badges were claimed, breakout sessions filled, and games and prizes brought joy and laughter Above all, it was the powerhouse women leading each workshop that left a lasting impression, creating an environment where girls were empowered, inspired, and reluctant to leave.

In another stride toward fostering sisterhood and professional growth, the Immersive Grant Writing Program was born out of a collaboration with Grants4Good We have proudly graduated our first class and now look forward to welcoming the next group of visionary women These initiatives, generously supported by local foundations are a reflection of our journey towards empowering women and girls As we embrace this season

of renewal, we remain committed to breaking new ground, guided by the legacy and the collective strength of our community

Expressions of Gratitude:

This is a tribute to three remarkable women who have inspired, led, and supported us. Kimberly Mitchell and Collene Burns have completed their terms on our board of directors, leaving an indelible mark on our organization Both have transitioned to new roles within the WFGV eco-system and we are excited to say we made HERstory together

Additionally, Audrey Wackerman has assumed the prestigious position of Chairwoman Emeritus, where she will continue her influential leadership by providing guidance and counsel Audrey, your unwavering commitment and passion for our cause, and your role as a guiding sister, have significantly strengthened us We are profoundly thankful for your contributions and look forward to continuing our work together.

THEYEAROF CELEBRATION!

“OURSISTERHOODISGENUINE,STRONG,ANDENDURING.”

A writer I admire recently wrote that she is ready to "take big swings and celebrate small wins" While I think our wins will be huge this year, I do believe in celebrating all wins, no matter their size -- they are significant regardless.

But I want to focus on "taking big swings " We are an organization that has made a habit of reaching for the stars, swinging for the fences, and any other metaphor that basically means that we're about to go big. And we are ready to do just that

In the last two years, we have been quietly preparing to celebrate our 30th birthday year with a renewed Mission and Vision that centers the community we serve and focuses on equity and inclusion.

We stand on the shoulders of those who founded our organization 30 years ago and know that as the "how" of our work evolves, the "why" of our mission remains constant: to recognize, celebrate, and break down barriers alongside women and girls in the Greater Rochester area

We have every intention of continuing that work, and I hope you'll join us We have so much to celebrate and no time to waste!

The path we walk is adorned with the achievements of those who came before us and the boundless potential of those we serve Together, we step forward into a future where every woman and girl can realize her dreams, supported by a foundation of unwavering support and shared vision Here’s to walking into a season of the new, with hearts full of gratitude and eyes set on the horizon of endless possibilities

Warmly, Syd

Audrey Wackerman

Kimberly Mitchell

Collene Burns

CREATE

We interviewed the wonderful McKinley Decker, USA National Miss New York Junior Teen

Golisano Children’s

PowerHerForwardGirl’sConference arttherapyworkshop

Working Sessions for the Immersive Grant Writing Program

You are warmly invited to a grand evening celebration,

2023GIRLS INITIATIVE STATS!

Twenty-two girls successfully completed our Girl's Conference Planning Team program. Their weekly dedication to meticulously organizing every aspect taught us valuable insights into the priorities and needs of their generation. They approached the selection of breakout session themes with honesty and careful consideration, engaging in thoughtful debates about relevance and the potential impact on their peers Witnessing their passion and determination was both inspiring and eye-opening.

Women from across Rochester united in a remarkable volunteer effort to uplift over 150 of our younger sisters. Representing a spectrum of organizations, including Golisano Children's Hospital, Baden Street Settlement, City of Rochester Recreation, USI Insurance, Bond, Schoeneck & King PLLC, ESL Federal Credit Union, and Delphi Rise, they came together with full force It was all hands on deck as these dedicated volunteers collaborated, showcasing the power of community and the spirit of giving back.

TOGETHER,WE AREMAKINGAN IMPACT!

These enthusiastic young attendees simply didn't want the event to end Engrossed by our keynote speaker, Khadija Yawn from Roc Royal, they hung on her every word, then let loose on the dance floor, moving freely to the tunes spun by our 13year-old DJ. With prizes and games aplenty, the energy was infectious

For those seeking a quieter haven, our sensory room provided a peaceful retreat to slow down, engage in meaningful conversations with mentors, and enjoy a different kind of connection. In this inclusive and secure environment, every girl felt valued and included, proving that we're not about setting up barriers but rather, building bridges.

THISYEAR,WE AREEXPANDING OURREACH. WILLYOUHELP?

OUR PROGRAMS

Power Her Forward Girls Initiative

April 23, 2024

November 9, 2024

Twenty girls will be spending a full day at the Golisano Institute for Business and Entrepreneurship for an enriching experience During their visit, they will receive professional headshots aimed at enhancing their career profiles. Additionally, they will engage in various workshops covering financial literacy, salary negotiation techniques, exploring career options, and effective resume writing, among other topics. Furthermore, they will have the unique opportunity to receive career coaching from some of the top industry experts in Rochester!

The Power Her Forward Girls Conference, aimed at girls aged 14-19, will leverage arts and social-emotional learning to boost their confidence in managing their surroundings, finances, and mental well-being It focuses on skill-building to help them excel in an evolving world. The event's highlights include:

- An energizing welcome session.

- Expression through art and social emotional learning

- Multiple breakout workshops on relevant topics.

- A major lunch event featuring a keynote speaker

Plant the Seed and Watch it Grow

Year Round

“A girl should be two things: Who and what she wants.”

The Power Her Forward Girls Planning Team is an exceptional group of young leaders dedicated to organizing the annual Power Her Forward Conference. These ambitious girls not only gain valuable leadership skills and earn community service hours but also have the opportunity to connect with mentors Through regular meetings, they focus on understanding and incorporating what girls want to learn at the conference, meticulously planning activities, and actively encouraging their peers to participate in this empowering event.

WithsupportandtrainingfromtheWomen’sFoundation,teengirlsreview ourgrantapplicationsfromcommunityprogramsthatbenefitgirlsinthe regionanddecide,asagroup,wherethe$10,000awardwillhavethe greatestimpact.Eachgirlisassigneduptothreeproposalstoevaluateand score

Committeemembers willmeetgirlsfromaroundtheGreaterRochester Areaandlearnabouttheimportanceofcaringforourcommunityandthe impactofwomeninphilanthropy!

CAPACITY BUILDING FOR WOMEN

Approximately 70% of employees in nonprofits are women, yet they often do not ascend to leadership roles as frequently as men, partly due to fewer opportunities for professional development. Notably, women constitute about 60% of leaders in small nonprofits, as highlighted by a Philanthropy Today study The Immersive Grant Writing Program is a tailored 6-month training initiative aimed at empowering women in the nonprofit sector to effectively seek and write grants. This skill is vital for small nonprofits, which rely heavily on grant funding to support communities in need

By supporting this program, you are investing in a future where women are at the forefront of driving positive social change through enhanced professional growth.

Current Program Results:

Over $110K in grants secured by participants within the first 4 months of the program.

0% Program Attrition and full program attendance.

100% of program participants completed their first grant proposal.

There are over 100 women on the program waiting list in the Greater Rochester area!

"This program helped me to raise the most dollars ever for my organization "

-Khadija Yawn, ROC Royal

LIGHTTHEPATH.

GIVE A MONTHLY DONATION IN CELEBRATION OF OUR 30TH ANNIVERSARY.

At WFGV, we believe in the power of an opportunity. We also understand that community investment and support can transform the lives of others forever. Whether it's a woman mapping out her next professional journey or a young girl navigating the trials of peer pressure and the intricacies of envisioning her future, they deserve to know there is someone cheering them on

Our commitment lies in nurturing the growth and development of all women and girls, both personally and professionally by way of our Girl'sInitiativeandCapacityBuildingPrograms

By contributing a monthly donation, of $10 or even $30, representing our anniversary, you become a beacon of hope, lighting the way for their journey towards empowerment. Will you join us in this vital mission?

want to honor the women who’ve made a positive difference in your life?

Share your story with us and we’ll add your tribute to our webpage Email us at info@womensfoundation.org

L I F T Y O U R S IS T E R T R I B U T E

are you interested in lighting the way ahead by sponsoring an event or initiative?

To make a general one-time or recurring donation, scan the QR code below or hit the DONATE button. For further information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Jasmine Fleming, Program and Development Coordinator at [jasmine@womensfoundation org]