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Driving Change: How Women Are Shaping Philanthropy and Economic Equality


Ever wondered why it often feels like women are dealt a shorter hand in the economic game? It's a tale as old as time—gender disparities have been the norm for centuries. But here's the twist: women have consistently turned the tide, making jaw-dropping contributions to society. Today, they're not just participating in philanthropy; they're revolutionizing it, driving economic and social empowerment across the globe. Let's dive into how women have been and continue to be game-changers in the world of philanthropy.



Historical Foundations of Women's Impact


Think about powerhouses like May Chen, Betty Dukes, Dr. Rebecca J. Cole, and Wilma Mankiller. These women were absolute trailblazers, laying the groundwork for future generations despite facing some serious gender disparities.

  • May Chen: As a labor activist, Chen fought tirelessly for the rights of immigrant garment workers, advocating for fair wages and better working conditions.

  • Betty Dukes: Dukes was the lead plaintiff in the landmark gender discrimination lawsuit against Walmart, highlighting the systemic challenges women face in the workplace.

  • Dr. Rebecca J. Cole: As the second African American woman to become a doctor in the U.S., Cole championed medical advancements and advocated for the health and rights of women and African Americans.

  • Wilma Mankiller: The first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, Mankiller worked to improve healthcare, education, and housing for her community.

Elizabeth Cady Stanton, a suffragist in the 19th century, famously said, “A woman will always be dependent until she holds a purse of her own,” underscoring the importance of financial independence for women's autonomy and agency. Stanton’s advocacy for women’s financial independence laid the foundation for modern economic empowerment movements.

Modern Philanthropy: Women Redefining Giving

Fast forward to today, and women like Jennifer Risher are shaking things up in philanthropy. Risher’s #HalfMyDAF initiative is a breath of fresh air, encouraging donors—especially women—to channel their Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) into diverse causes. This initiative has already funneled millions into efforts focused on gender equity, reproductive health, and more.

Risher champions a heart-driven approach to philanthropy, urging us to use all our resources—talents, time, ties, testimony, and treasure. It’s not just about the money; it’s about creating a more inclusive and responsive philanthropic landscape.

Then there's Melinda Gates, who’s making waves with a $1 billion commitment to gender equality. She’s calling for innovative messaging and strategic planning in philanthropic endeavors. As Gates puts it, This is a moment of real possibility. If we invest in women, we can change the world. And she’s right! Empowering Women Globally through Dedicated Initiatives

Let’s not forget about Cherie Blair and her amazing work with the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women. This foundation has supported over 250,000 women entrepreneurs in more than 100 countries. It focuses on economic empowerment, leadership development, and overcoming the systemic barriers women face in business and society.

Blair’s personal experiences fuel her mission to empower women economically. She’s all about financial independence: Without financial independence, so many women are vulnerable and can’t make the right choices. Through skills development and access to financial networks, her foundation aims to reduce poverty and foster economic growth.


The Giving List: Amplifying Women's Philanthropic Leadership

"The Giving List: Women Doing it Differently" book is a testament to the power of women-led philanthropy. It showcases stories of influential women and organizations driving philanthropic change, highlighting diverse partnerships and initiatives that promote gender justice, environmental sustainability, and social equity.

Key stories and quotes from the book, such as Pat Mitchell’s emphasis on women's crucial role in environmental policies, illustrate the far-reaching impact of women's leadership in philanthropy. Mitchell notes, "Women are the ones carrying the innovations forward at the front lines. And when they're in positions of influence, the evidence is clear that they have better environmental policies and certainly better gender and family-focused policies."


From historical legacies to modern-day initiatives, the narrative of women in philanthropy is one of unyielding progress and boundless potential. Women are not just making strides—they're leading the charge in economic and social empowerment.

Curious to learn more about how women are transforming the world? Dive into “The Giving List: Women Doing it Differently” book and empower yourself with the stories and strategies of women making a difference. Grab your copy online and join the movement towards gender equity and impactful giving.

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