THE PRESIDENT'S LETTER
Winnie Bailey
Do you know a woman who is struggling to complete her post secondary education (either academic or trade), but who has found it difficult, if not impossible, to succeed? The obstacles she must overcome and the challenges she faces are extraordinary; yet she perseveres, because she knows that getting an education will make the difference in her life and in the lives of her family.
That woman is the potential Scholar that the WEDC Foundation is looking for!
Each year, the Foundation grants a number of non traditional scholarships to women who face great challenges. The Foundation pairs each scholar with a Mentor - a woman who will spend time with the scholar assisting and supporting her with advice, compassion and humor. Both Scholar and Mentor attend quarterly Development Workshops designed to strengthen life-skills needed to move into the work force and compete for jobs.
This year, in 2010, the WEDC Foundation continues to develop and strengthen its programs for both Scholars and Mentors. As President, I am particularly proud to lead a Board of Directors made up of deeply committed and caring women in our community. Our vision is to create legacies of accomplished and independent women who will, when their time comes, give back and share their success. Thus, we have focused on building relationships with our twelve scholars, getting to know them and their families, and celebrating with them their successes in both school and in the workplace. One will receive her RN degree in June 2010 and two others will be finishing their participation in the Scholarship Program, but are planning to continue classes toward their degrees. The nine remaining are well on their way to achieving their goals!
To accomplish our vision and mission takes perseverance, passion and Money! We need your help. Support our annual Women Honoring Women Awards Celebration, which will take place September 16, 2010 at the VBC. Consider becoming a Friend of the Foundation with your donation or, if you prefer to preserve your gift, earmark it for the Endowment Fund. Both funds are fully described on this website.
Together we can make a difference in the lives of many women and their families by assisting them to achieve self-sufficiency and economic independence. Please consider being a part of this mission!
