By: Ashmar Mandou

International Women’s Day is a day to honor the achievements of women around the globe and, especially here in Chicago. As a way to commemorate International Women’s Day on Friday, March 8th we have compiled a list of organizations around Chicago dedicated to empowering and positively influencing the lives of women and young girls facing various circumstances from fleeing war-torn countries, to abuse, to low self-esteem.

Girls in the Game
At Girls in the Game every girl finds her voice, discovers her strength and leads with confidence through fun and active sports, health and leadership programs. Girls in the Game encourages physical and emotional health and promote active minds, bodies, and hearts. If you are interests in volunteering or learning more, visit www.girlsinthegame.org.

Woman Made Gallery
Woman Made Gallery is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1992. Its goal is to cultivate, promote and support the work of female-identified artists by providing exhibition opportunities, professional development, and public programs that invite discussion about what feminism means today. More than 8,000 women artists have exhibited their work since WMG was established. To learn more, visit www.womanmade.org.

GirlForward
GirlForward is a community of support dedicated to creating and enhancing opportunities for girls who have displaced by conflict and persecution. Over 65 million people worldwide have been forced to flee their homes.  In conflict, girls are especially vulnerable to violence, isolation, and being kept out of school. Girls who receive resettlement in the United States face huge challenges: poverty, language barrier, limited or disrupted education, isolation, and trauma. But when girls succeed, everyone benefits. That’s where GirlForward comes in. GirlForward is currently seeking volunteers. To apply, visit www.girlforward.org.

Mujeres Latinas en Acción
Mujeres Latinas en Acción (Mujeres), a bilingual/bicultural agency, empowers Latinas by providing services which reflect their values and culture and being and advocate on the issues that make a difference in their lives. Founded in 1973, Mujeres is the longest standing incorporated Latina organization in the nation. Over the years Mujeres has developed a comprehensive array of social services and advocacy initiatives that promote non-violence, reproductive health and leadership development. To volunteer or to donate, visit www.mujereslatinasenaccion.org.

Chicago Foundation for Women
Chicago Foundation for Women envisions a world in which all women and girls have the opportunity to thrive in safe, just and healthy communities. They believe in equality, empowerment, diversity, collaboration, and integrity. To learn more, visit www.cfw.org.

Women Employed
Women Employed connects with working women to understand the everyday barriers they face. They develop creative and strategic solutions to address them. They leverage the strength of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ideas. They inform policymakers and the public and urge them to support programs and legislation that promote fairness and equal opportunity. If you would like to learn more, visit www.womenemployed.org.

Latina Girls Code
Formed in 2014, Latina Girls Code is a program created to fill the diversity gap between girls who are interested in technology through education and resources. LGC will provide mentors, access to hardware and digital tools as well as internships through various programs and events throughout the year. It is the endeavor of the organization to provide tangible education to those particularly in disadvantaged areas in hopes to spur interest in the technology. To volunteer or to donate, visit www.latinagirlscode.org

Photo Credit: Girls Forward
Photo Credit: Latina Girls Code
Photo Credit: Chicago Foundation for Women