Liberia - After 9 long months away due to COVID, I finally returned to Liberia in December and am very grateful to be here. We are perfecting a collective impact model for social change unlike anything anywhere. In celebration of this International Women’s Day 2021, I am reflecting on the millions of women and family members with whom we have been blessed to connect since our inception in the late 1990’s. An unbelievable journey, one I never could have imagined…
Our original tagline was “…it’s about connection and service” – and that we have done in such a profound way. Starting in India in 1998, we helped grow a microfinance program from 100 initial borrowers living on less than $1/day to now the 4th largest global microfinance organization on the planet with more than a million women involved regularly. We mentored young women at risk in collaboration with several organizations. We provided support and companionship to homeless women in our San Diego community in partnership with Rachel’s Women Center. And we offered a regular support group to women dealing with a life-threatening diagnosis.
We have connected with and served millions of women and their families since our inception.
This International Women’s Day I dedicate that commitment to the next generation of women, personified by namesake Deborah and her sister Florence. Deborah’s father, head of security for the former VP, called me 13+ years ago to let me know she was born; surprising news! Seven+ years ago I asked Deborah to take then abandoned Florence home for the night to give her a bath and do her hair; she has never left our family. Today Deborah is the brightest student in her 8th grade class and after several double promotions Florence is now in the 7th grade. Our long-time supporter and board member Janie Davis is helping them and other girls stay in school thanks to the FFW Scholarship Fund for Girls which she birthed. We would love your support for this fund!!
We have connected with and served millions of women and their families since our inception.
This International Women’s Day I dedicate that commitment to the next generation of women, personified by namesake Deborah and her sister Florence. Deborah’s father, head of security for the former VP, called me 13+ years ago to let me know she was born; surprising news! Seven+ years ago I asked Deborah to take then abandoned Florence home for the night to give her a bath and do her hair; she has never left our family. Today Deborah is the brightest student in her 8th grade class and after several double promotions Florence is now in the 7th grade. Our long-time supporter and board member Janie Davis is helping them and other girls stay in school thanks to the FFW Scholarship Fund for Girls which she birthed. We would love your support for this fund!!
And on this International Women’s Day I dedicate that commitment to all who have inspired us, especially Ma Frances Mayson, the dearest woman I have ever known. We met in Los Angeles in 2006, months before I ever landed in this country. She was instantly my (s)hero – and still is. Her unconditional love for humanity has inspired me and this work since our first connection.
To the young women coming, to those women who have inspired so many of us – I stand with you in love and appreciation. May we all hold hands together to make this world a better place for women and girls and all beings…
To the young women coming, to those women who have inspired so many of us – I stand with you in love and appreciation. May we all hold hands together to make this world a better place for women and girls and all beings…
With love and blessings from Liberia,
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