Because it’s International Women’s Day, let’s take a look at some non-profit organizations in Washington County that cater to the needs of women. The stories behind these groups are truly inspiring and would really make you think how compassion for humanity can go such a long way. Read on and we also encourage you to check out their websites to learn more about their advocacies.
1. AKHA WOMEN’S FOUNDATION
Founder: Winnie Cain
Founded: 2001
Story: The Akha population can be found in Yunnan province in Southwest China, the northern parts of Laos, Vietnam and Thailand, and eastern Burma. They are among the world’s most impoverished and are struggling to survive due to lack of or almost zero access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. The role of Akha women is invaluable. They work the fields and provide for their families.
Mission: The Akha Women’s Foundation provides opportunities for the Akha women so they can receive training and education, provide for their families, and share their culture.
Website: http://www.akhawomensfoundation.com/
2. TRAUMA HELP CENTER FOR WOMEN (THW)
Founder: Tracy Walker
Story: The organization was established as a response to the lack of support services to individuals who are going through health/mental wellness problems. The peer support group is composed of trauma-trained volunteers who went through similar traumas.
Mission: To support individuals on their journey to the other side of healing, so that they can discover who they were truly meant to be.
Website: https://traumahelpforwomen.org/home
3. THE YOUNIQUE FOUNDATION
Founder: Shelaine Maxfield
Founded: 2014
Story: The Younique Foundation was formed out of the need to help female survivors overcome the trauma caused by child sexual abuse and eventually heal. They provide free services educational retreats, online resources, and support groups. The Younique Foundation has a full staff of licensed clinical practitioners.
Mission:
We inspire hope in women who were sexually abused as children or adolescents by providing healing services through educational retreats, support groups, and online resources.
We educate and empower parents and caregivers to protect children from sexual abuse through community and online resources.
We advocate for open discussions about sexual abuse through community dialogue and social awareness.
Website: https://youniquefoundation.org/
4. GIRLS ON THE RUN (GOTR) SOUTHERN UTAH
Executive Director: Melissa Miller
Established: 2014
Story: GOTR Southern Utah was established as an independent council of GOTR International. It is a unique organization such that it instills in young girls that they can have limitless potential as long as the mind and body is connected. They integrate physical activities like running so that girls can build confidence and in the long run, healthy habits for life.
Mission: We inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running.
Website: https://www.gotrsouthernutah.org/
5. AAUW (ST. GEORGE, UTAH BRANCH)
President: B.A. Secrist
Founded: 1981
Story: AAUW St. George is a branch of the American Association of University Women National. It advocates gender equity for women and girls through various programs such as scholarships, STEM camps, leadership programs and even helping women with salary negotiations. The foundation has been changing lives in the community through these intellectually challenging programs.
Mission: Our branch mission is to help advance equity for women and girls in Utah through advocacy and education. Explore our site and please consider joining or donating today.
Website: https://aauw-stgeorge.org/
Sources:
http://business.stgeorgechamber.com/list/member/akha-women-s-foundation-6702
http://www.akhawomensfoundation.com/
http://business.stgeorgechamber.com/list/member/trauma-help-for-women-thw-9675
https://traumahelpforwomen.org/home
http://business.stgeorgechamber.com/list/member/the-younique-foundation-8881
https://youniquefoundation.org/
https://www.gotrsouthernutah.org/
https://aauw-stgeorge.org/