What does it take to win the Youth in Philanthropy Award? Be inspired! Check out the local story in The Land Park News, page 22.

Handbags Earn Youth Award for Giving Back

Haley Anthonisen, a local college student passionate about helping her community, recently earned the Youth in Philanthropy Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals. The honor was based on her years of commitment to giving back—which all culminated in a handbag.

Haley first approached our organization in 2005. She had started a business, Haley Corina Handbags. Using recycled men’s neckties, Haley put her sewing talent to work crafting beautiful, silk purses. From the start, Haley set a goal that a portion of each bag sold would benefit Women’s Empowerment.

Holiday Helpers' Guide

In response to the phone calls from many of you looking for ways to help in this current crisis, we’ve compiled this holiday helpers’ guide. The need may be greater than ever, but if we each help with a little, together we can accomplish a lot! Please spread the word to family and friends. The opportunities include:

Brandye bubbled with pride and gratitude as she received her certificate of completion last month. She is the 600th woman to graduate from the Women’s Empowerment job readiness program since our first class in 2001.

A year ago, Brandye, a mother of three young children, was entangled in an abusive relationship where she had been stuck for six years. She had tried to leave many times, but without knowing where to turn for help, she always found herself right back where she started.

Brandye is not alone.  More than 89% of the homeless women who turn to Women’s Empowerment have experienced domestic violence. 

When Brandye finally summoned her courage and left, she luckily found a bed at a local shelter and learned about Women’s Empowerment. “I wanted structure,” she says.  “I needed someone to help give me direction so I could succeed on my own.”