Compassionate Capitalism - August 2002

Nevada Women’s Fund

Assisting Women and Children in Northern Nevada

The Nevada Women’s Fund (NWF) was founded in 1982 by a group of concerned women who wanted the best for the women and children of Northern Nevada. "At that time, funding and programs necessary to meet the needs of women were woefully inadequate in addressing issues such as domestic violence, childcare and health services for low-income, single-parent families," said Judy Henderson of NWF. The fund provides scholarships to assist both traditional and non-traditional female students and supports the advancement of women in the workplace through professional development. Since 1982, NWF has awarded: more than $1.3 million in scholarships to 543 women; almost $1.3 million in grants to 107 community groups providing immediate assistance to women and children; and provided professional development training to nearly 300 women. In addition, NWF has built an endowment in excess of $1.2 million to ensure future funding for these programs.

With support from businesses, foundations, non-profit organizations and individuals who share and support its vision, NWF established a scholarship program that provides opportunities for women to make a difference for themselves, their families and their community by completing their education and upgrading their skills. NWF awarded $128,550 in scholarships to 88 women for the 2001-2002 academic year. Thirty percent were single mothers, 33 percent were re-entry students and 20 percent were ethnic minorities. Recipients ranged in age from 18 to 68.

NWF’s Professional Development Series provides women with skills and insights that enable them to effectively move into executive levels of management. The series presents a challenging view of the leadership skills needed to move forward, embrace change and explore the future with other women leaders. Lessons include: strategies for taking the lead during chaos and change in emerging organizations; making the most of limited resources; cultivating respect and concern for others; staying as smart as technology; and developing the capacity for inner nurturing and balance.

NWF is actively involved in supporting programs that promote women and children’s issues. It acts as fiscal agent for the Nevada Women’s History Project (NWHP), which provides visibility and support for the gathering and dissemination of information about the roles and contributions of women in Nevada history. NWHP supports: a biennial statewide gathering for women; a biographical database about Nevada women for use by teachers and librarians; in-service training in both Northern and Southern Nevada; and special events each year on Nevada History Day.

NWF is collaborating with several public and private agencies and organizations to conduct a study on the status of women and girls in Nevada, which will lead to significantly increased visibility for the issues facing women and girls in today’s environment. This report will utilize the most up-to-date information available, including Census 2000 population data, and statistics from state and national agencies.

To accomplish its mission, NWF raises funds from three primary sources: special events; contributions and grants from corporations and foundations; and the generosity of individual donors. It sponsors four major fundraising events annually: the Salute to Women of Achievement luncheon, which was held this year on May 22; the Going for the Gold Gala dinner and silent auction, to take place on October 4; a $10,000 cash raffle during the Going for the Gold Gala; and a Golf Classic, slated for September 18 in partnership with the Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce.

Nevada Women’s Fund

770 Smithridge Dr., Suite 300

Reno, NV 89502

775-786-2335