The Women’s Philanthropy Network (WPN) is a dynamic community of caring women who are dedicated to enhancing the lives of children in Caddo Parish. Founded in 2005, the WPN was established to enable local women of all generations and philanthropic capacities to leverage their charitable giving to address pressing issues in the community. Through the power of collective philanthropy, the members make a greater impact than they could individually.
Each year, members pool their annual dues and award a grant to a nonprofit focused on improving school readiness and student achievement. Grant applications are solicited annually in January, and after a rigorous review process by the WPN Grants Committee, finalists are presented at the Annual Meeting, where the entire membership votes to select the recipient. Since its inception, the WPN has granted over $1.7 million to effective educational initiatives in our community.
At the Annual Meeting on May 12 at Ronald McDonald House, the membership voted to award three grants, totaling $80,000, to Volunteers for Youth Justice (VYJ). Basic Necessities, and Girls Empowered for More Society, Inc. (GEMS).
Volunteers for Youth Justice (VYJ) received a $60,000 grant for its School-Based Resource Center. VYJ’s School-Based program is a trauma-informed, relationship-based program designed to provide on campus support for at-risk students struggling with educational challenges, particularly those related to truancy and trauma. Rooted in Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) principles, the program focuses on building resilience, strengthening emotional regulation, and restoring a sense of safety for students who have experienced adversity.
Basic Necessities received a $10,000 grant for its Healthy Foundations for Learning program. Basic Necessities supports families across Caddo Parish by addressing hygiene insecurity and promoting family stability, health, and child wellbeing. The core of the program is the distribution of essential hygiene supplies to low-income families in Caddo Parish. Supplies are distributed through community partners and school-based channels. Reliable access to hygiene essentials helps reduce school absenteeism, prevent classroom disruptions, and ensure students can participate in school with dignity and confidence.
Girls Empowered for More Society, Inc. (GEMS) received a $10,000 grant for its GEMS Leadership & Opportunity Pathway program. GEMS is dedicated to bringing gender diversity gaps in STEAM, entrepreneurship, and leadership for girls. GEMS aims to promote empowerment and self-confidence, enabling girls to become strong leaders and advocates for themselves and others. The program will provide 50 girls with STEAM tour, self-care Saturdays, and pajama powers.
Each year, 20% of the annual membership dues are invested in an endowed fund, now valued at over $700,000. The endowment ensures future grant availability and builds a lasting legacy for the WPN. Community Foundation of North Louisiana manages the WPN funds, administers the grant application, and handles the administrative duties.
In addition to strategic grantmaking, the WPN also hosts social and educational events to keep members informed of community programs and needs. All activities are open to members and guests. To learn more about the WPN, visit cfnla.org/wpn.