Five Local Organizations Ban Together For Women And Girls On Giving Tuesday

On Giving Tuesday, Dec. 1, five organizations that focus on empowering women and girls in the region will join forces to increase philanthropic support for gender-based programs.

The Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts, Girls Inc. of Holyoke, MotherWoman, the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts and the YWCA of Western Massachusetts are testing a new collaboration, Give to Women and Girls, or #G2WG, that they hope will inspire residents to keep their charitable gifts local and focused on the needs of the mothers, daughters, and families in their community.

“Together, we are a stronger and louder chorus for change,” said Elizabeth Barajas-Román, CEO of the WFWM. “Only seven percent of philanthropic dollars go toward programs for women and girls. While support is shrinking, the need is growing.”

The group wants to change this trend by joining forces for the first time on this day of giving. They created a webpage to launch the effort: G2WG.org – and will share a challenge donation pool, promotional activities and a day-of celebration event. Giving Tuesday, which was started by the 92^nd Street Y in New York City, is now a global day of action that uses the power of social media to celebrate generosity and encourage giving.

“Give to one of us, some of us, or all of us,” said Shannon M. Rudder, executive director of MotherWoman. “No matter what, your support will make a difference in the lives of local women, girls, and their families.”

“Every day, I am inspired by the ways in which Girl Scouts connect with others to serve their communities,” said Patricia Hallberg, CEO of the Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts. “Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts is proud to follow in girls’ footsteps on Giving Tuesday by using the power of collaboration to make meaningful change for women and girls.”

“G2WG is an amazing new collaborative effort and, during this time of thanks-giving, we appreciate everyone who makes a stand for women and girls by supporting us on Giving Tuesday,” said Suzanne Parker, executive director of Girls Inc. of Holyoke.

“We believe in the strength of women and girls but truly believe magic happens when we are fearless together. Join with us as we raise our collective voices,” said Mary Reardon Johnson, executive director of the YWCA of Western Massachusetts.