For many women, the hardest part of overcoming trauma, domestic violence, substance use, poverty, or life crises is not finding the desire to change—it is finding support that lasts long enough to make change possible.
When a woman walks into a Women’s Empowerment Series session hosted by We EmpowHER in Wisconsin, she is often carrying more than her own struggles. She may be carrying the weight of childhood trauma, financial insecurity, family responsibilities, housing instability, or recovery from addiction. Many arrive feeling isolated and unsure where to begin.
Research shows they are not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 60 percent of adults have experienced at least one adverse childhood experience (ACE), and women are disproportionately affected by interpersonal violence and trauma. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that trauma-informed support and peer connections are critical factors in long-term recovery and resilience.
Bridging the Gap Between Crisis and Stability
The Women’s Empowerment Series was created to bridge the gap between crisis and stability. Through a 12-week program, participants engage in workshops focused on trauma recovery, healthy relationships, financial literacy, parenting, career readiness, physical wellness, and personal growth. Each woman is paired with a mentor who provides encouragement, accountability, and practical guidance throughout the program.
The impact extends beyond the classroom. Participants build supportive relationships, gain confidence, develop life skills, and create individualized plans for achieving personal goals. Childcare support, meals, transportation assistance, and youth programming help remove barriers that often prevent women from accessing services.
According to the organization, We EmpowHER has served more than 500 women since its founding in 2017, helping participants strengthen family relationships, increase employment readiness, improve mental wellness, and build sustainable support networks. Many graduates return as volunteers, mentors, and community advocates.
A Growing Need for Women’s Mental Health Resources
The need for these services continues to grow. The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that women experience higher rates of anxiety and depression than men. At the same time, economic challenges and caregiving responsibilities often compound stress and limit opportunities for advancement. Community-based programs that combine education, mentorship, and peer support can offer a path toward long-term stability.
This post was submitted as part of our “You Said It” program. Each submission serves as the grant application into Better and the Make It Better Foundation’s broader storytelling and funding ecosystem. An excellent “You Said It” can earn a nonprofit you champion a $1,000 grant from the Make It Better Foundation in support of its mission, plus eligibility for an invitation to apply for a Philanthropy Award, expanded content partnerships, and greater engagement with our audience.
How to Help
We EmpowHER provides free programs that help women overcome trauma, addiction, domestic violence, poverty, and other life challenges through education, mentorship, and community support.
You can support this work by volunteering, becoming a mentor, sponsoring a participant, making a donation, or attending the annual Spread Your Wings Gala featuring the community-favorite Masked Singer Competition on Nov. 6, 2026. This exciting event brings together local leaders, businesses, and community members to celebrate resilience while raising critical funds to keep programs free for women and their families.
Wendy Compton, MBA, MAcc is the founder of Wendy Compton LLC, a Wisconsin-based grant writing and financial services firm dedicated to helping nonprofit organizations secure funding and strengthen their impact. With a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Accounting, Wendy brings more than two decades of experience in financial management, having served in roles including Senior Accountant and Controller.
Since launching her business in 2010, Wendy has helped nonprofits secure millions of dollars in grant funding through compelling proposals, strategic storytelling, and strong financial planning. She specializes in translating complex organizational needs into powerful narratives that connect funders with the people and communities being served.
Wendy believes that every successful grant begins with a meaningful story. Her passion is helping organizations clearly communicate their mission, demonstrate their impact, and inspire donors, foundations, and grantmakers to invest in lasting change. Through her work, she helps nonprofit leaders focus on what they do best—serving their communities—while building the resources needed to sustain and grow their programs.
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