On our latest episode of WomenShare, Tish Berbaum talked about one of her core values being to give back to her local community. She said it includes donating her time, intellectual capital, and/or money. We can all give back in one way or another, and we know that women specifically face unique financial challenges. From the gender pay gap to the demands of caregiving to not having representation in certain industries (ahem, financial services), by empowering women with financial knowledge, we can help them achieve their financial goals and build a more equitable future.
Here are a few ways you can give back to women in your local community:
If you are a financial advisor, volunteer at a financial literacy workshop or host one yourself.
Many organizations offer free or low-cost financial literacy workshops for women. Look for local nonprofits, community centers, or even libraries that host these events. Volunteer your time to assist with the workshop, answer questions, or even share your own financial experiences. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of the women attending.
Mentor a young woman.
Many young women don't have much knowledge of what a career in financial services looks like. Offer to mentor a young woman interested in finance. Even if a career in financial services is not for her, learning some financial concepts, will certainly help her in whatever she pursues. Share your knowledge and experiences, help her create a budget, and guide her in making informed financial decisions. Consider mentoring through a formal program or informally with a friend, family member, or someone you meet through community involvement. Introductions to people in your network could open doors for young women!
Donate to organizations supporting women's financial and career empowerment.
Support organizations that provide financial education and resources to women. Many nonprofits focus on specific areas like:
-
Financial literacy for single mothers
-
Entrepreneurship training for women
-
Supporting women-owned businesses
In 2024, we had LeeAnn Rasachak on the podcast to talk about the work she is doing at WomenVenture, supporting women entreprenuers. Check out that episode and learn more about them at https://www.womenventure.org/.
Research local organizations and consider making a recurring donation to support their ongoing work.
Raise awareness in your network.
Share information about financial resources available to women in your community. This could include workshops, online resources, or local support groups. Start a conversation with your friends, family, and colleagues about the importance of women's financial literacy and empowerment. Encourage them to get involved in supporting this cause in their own way.
Advocate for policies that support women's financial well-being.
Contact your elected officials to advocate for policies that address the gender pay gap, provide affordable childcare, and support women-owned businesses. Stay informed about local and national issues impacting women's financial security and make your voice heard.
By taking any of these steps, you can play a vital role in empowering women in your community and helping them achieve their financial and career goals. Remember, every small action, every donation, is a step in seeing the change we want in financial services and beyond.
