Celebrating WANDA: Empowering Women, Building Community

Posted October 28, 2024

In Community Initiative, grantmaking, guest post, non-profit, philanthropy

Guest Blog Post by WANDA and PVF’s Andrea Smith, Program and Communications Associate

We are excited to shine a spotlight on WANDA, an incredible organization that is making a significant impact in the lives of women and the communities they serve. With a steadfast commitment to empowerment, education, and advocacy, WANDA is transforming the narrative for countless women, providing them with the tools they need to thrive.

Founded by women for women, WANDA (Women and Allies) is a strong community of women and allies committed to investing in single mother success. Since 2007, WANDA has been instrumental in helping hundreds of powerful women create positive mindsets and invest in their first homes, pursue higher-paying jobs, seek promotions, start successful businesses, build their savings, advocate for themselves and their families, and secure their financial future.

WANDA is dedicated to building generational economic justice for single mothers and their families through education, investment, empowerment, and collaboration with community-based nonprofits. The organization recognizes that breaking the cycle of poverty requires various supports, tangible skills, resources, self-investment, and perseverance through a growth mindset. Through their confidence-success cycle, where confidence drives action, action leads to success and success creates confidence, WANDA creates positive forward momentum that sets a precedent for the next generation.

When women join WANDA, they:

Learn to set personal goals, boost their financial literacy, advance their career, and sharpen key life skills
Connect with a supportive community of like-minded, achievement-oriented women with similar challenges and goals
Graduate from WANDA with up to $6000 to invest in education, retirement, or home ownership
Gain access to WANDA’s large network of peers, mentors, and partner organizations
Pass the knowledge and skills they acquire along to their children

Women who have participated in WANDA’s program share the strong impact it has had on their lives.

Gloria, Cohort 14: “When I started the classes with WANDA I never thought it was going to be so gratifying. I am so happy to be part of this great movement supporting single moms. I have learned a lot and I can say that thanks to WANDA I started saving money, going back to school, and opening my mind to believe I can do it.”

Teri, Cohort 14: “WANDA has given me an opportunity to grow in a way I never thought I would financially, personally, and professionally. It gave me the courage to open a savings account that I never had before. Being a single mother and the only provider, it’s tough, and you need someone like WANDA to say “Sí se puede,” Yes you can!”

WANDA is not just an organization; it is a movement. Through their unwavering dedication to empowering women, they are building a brighter future for all. We are incredibly proud to support WANDA and we look forward to witnessing the positive impact they will continue to create.