Women's Foundation of Colorado empowers women entrepreneurs through giving circles

The Women's Foundation of Colorado (WFC) is dedicated to enhancing the economic stability and thriving conditions for women. Established to address the various barriers women face, WFC's initiatives include research, direct services, advocacy, and grant-making to empower women economically, ultimately enabling them to support their families effectively. The organization's president and CEO, Renee Ferrufino, highlighted the effectiveness of programs designed to help women entrepreneurs, emphasizing the missed economic opportunities that arise when women's economic impacts remain unrecognized. As part of its mission, WFC introduced the Women's Impact Investing Giving Circle, which enables women to collaborate by pooling financial resources for investment in their communities. One prominent beneficiary of this investment strategy is The Village Institute located in Aurora. Founded by Ellie Adelman, The Village Institute serves as a robust support center and a leadership incubator aimed at single-mother-led families and other female-led homes. Since its inception five years ago, the institute has developed programs that focus on early childhood care and workforce training, fulfilling crucial needs in their community. With the financial assistance derived from the Women's Impact Investing Giving Circle, the organization has successfully centered its efforts on creating quality programs rather than worrying exclusively about funding. This strategic funding has significantly contributed to enhancing the quality of resources available for families in need. Claudine Migsha, who began working with The Village Institute after hearing about it while pursuing her master's degree at the University of Denver, exemplifies the transformative impact of this organization. Now serving as the Village Futures Program Coordinator, she uses her personal experience combined with professional expertise to advocate for women empowerment in her community. She notes how her involvement reflects her passion for lifting up other women, particularly through initiatives that directly address their specific needs. In addition to the immediate impact of the funding on organizations like The Village Institute, the Women’s Impact Investing Giving Circle’s focus on women's health innovation highlights a forward-thinking approach toward economic stability. As they begin the 2025 cycle, the aim remains to foster lasting change not just for individual organizations but for the collective socio-economic landscape of the region. The holistic approach of these initiatives illustrates a broader recognition of the importance of investing in women's potential, showcasing that when women thrive economically, entire communities benefit.