SHREVEPORT, La. — The Women’s Philanthropy Network awarded $80,000 in grants to three nonprofit organizations supporting youth services, family stability and girls’ leadership development in Caddo Parish.
The grants were approved during the organization’s annual meeting May 12 at the Ronald McDonald House.
The largest award, a $60,000 grant, went to Volunteers for Youth Justice for its School-Based Resource Center program. The initiative provides trauma-informed support services for at-risk students facing educational challenges, including truancy and trauma-related issues. The program is based on Trust-Based Relational Intervention principles and focuses on emotional regulation, resilience and student support within schools.
Basic Necessities received a $10,000 grant for its Healthy Foundations for Learning program, which distributes hygiene products to low-income families through schools and community partners across Caddo Parish. The organization said the program is intended to reduce absenteeism and classroom disruptions linked to hygiene insecurity.
Another $10,000 grant was awarded to Girls Empowered for More Society, Inc., also known as GEMS, for its GEMS Leadership & Opportunity Pathway program. The initiative aims to address gender gaps in STEAM education, entrepreneurship and leadership opportunities for girls through educational tours, mentoring and enrichment activities.
Founded in 2005, the Women’s Philanthropy Network pools annual membership dues to support educational initiatives focused on school readiness and student achievement in Caddo Parish. Since its inception, the organization has distributed more than $1.7 million in grants to local nonprofits.
The organization also allocates 20% of annual membership dues to an endowed fund managed by the Community Foundation of North Louisiana. The fund has grown to more than $700,000 and is intended to provide long-term support for future grants.
In addition to grantmaking, the network hosts educational and community events for members and guests focused on local needs and nonprofit initiatives.