We fund organizations that are generating bold ideas and solutions to address complex issues that affect the economic security of low-income women and families.
Impact
Women's Policy Institute
The Women’s Policy Institute (WPI) is getting big results. To date, WPI teams have helped to pass 14 new laws that benefit California’s women and families.
The Institute began in 2004, after the Foundation determined that the most effective strategy for making long-term change would be to work on shifting policies. This yearlong program helps grassroots leaders become strong voices for change in the halls of the state capital. Nearly 200 women—representing organizations all over the state that are working for women’s health, safety and economic security— have been trained to become effective advocates, navigating the labyrinth of Sacramento to make lasting policy changes for their communities. As fellows, they both learn and help shape legislation.
Download Northern California Grantmaker's Snapshot of Philanthropy which features the Institute.
Grantmaking, advocacy and convenings. How do these strategies come together to have an impact?
The Women's Foundation of California gave the Central Valley-based Community Water Center its first grant. The founders, Laurel Firestone (left) and Susana deAnda (right) wanted to get clean water to their communities. But the Foundation did more than make grants. We trained their leaders in public policy and helped them to meet other dynamic leaders that were working on improving their communities. Today, Community Water Center is a mover and shaker. It's been featured on the Today Show and achieved a momentous victory – legislation to regulate the groundwater in their county. Read more.
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Leader Profile
Statewide Organizer
San Francisco, CA
Key efforts:
This past year, Parent Voices worked successfully to prevent the complete elimination of Stage 3 child care in the California budget, which would had affected more than 60,000 children.