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I have always loved the ancient saying:  “There is no path; you make the path by walking.”  We have been making a path toward empowerment of women and girls since DWF began in 1985.  And it has been my great privilege to have been making that path with all of you for the past twelve years as President and CEO of our Dallas Women’s Foundation.  These twelve years have been full of challenge, opportunity and joy as we have worked together to increase the capacity, reputation and reach of this amazing organization—now the second largest women’s fund of the 165 funds in the

In all of the chaos surrounding the legislative session, one very good piece of legislation passed both houses and was recently signed into law by Governor Rick Perry. As a result, “human trafficking—a practice the federal government considers the fastest-growing criminal enterprise in the world—soon will draw tougher penalties in Texas”, according to John Gramlich, Stateline staff writer.

The Governor signed two trafficking-related measures into law which, together:

In the last couple years, Dallas Women’s Foundation has expanded its mission. Now, in addition to lifting the community by investing in women and girls and empowering women’s philanthropy, we have entered a new domain: research.
 

Last week, I was visiting with a friend as we quickly walked our girls into school. She had to run to a meeting, Ten-4-Him. I wondered what it was and went on with my busy day not giving it another thought until we spoke again. Later that morning she called me about another project we were working on and she told me about Ten-4-Him.  10 minutes – 10 people – 10 months – 10 dollars.
 

Yesterday was a historic day for the Dallas Women’s Foundation with the announcement of our $1 million testimonial gift for the construction of the Letot Girls’ Residential Treatment Center and the November results of the Adolescent Girls in the Texas Sex Trade study. These announcements were made possible because of the incredible vision and support the Dallas Women’s Foundation’s Board of Directors, led by Board Chair Trea C. Yip and our donors.

Today, Dallas Women's Foundation announces an historic $1 million grant to the Letot Center Capital Foundation for the construction of the Letot Girls' Residential Treatment Center.  DWF also announces the first tracking study of Adolescent Girls in the Texas Sex Trade.
 
To view the full study and latest information visit www.gender-matters.org.

For the first time in our Luncheon history, we exceeded our fundraising goal six weeks early and were able to add a "Girls' Viewing Room" this year so that 250 girls from various area schools could come and hear the message of our Foundation and our fantastic speaker Queen Latifah.  We receieved so much positive feedback from this addition and wanted to share one that really touched our hearts.
 
Dear Dallas Women’s Foundation,

Next week, voters will choose who will go to Austin to face an enormous crisis: a budget shortfall of as much as $25 billion. It’s uncertain what solutions there will be when legislators begin examining ways to close the gap. Program reductions, layoffs, the Rainy Day Fund and new revenue sources will all be on the table. One thing is definite: women and their families can not afford more cuts to critical programs.
 

The Dallas Women’s Foundation 25th Anniversary Luncheon Celebration is on Friday, October 29, 2010. Seating is limited and we anticipate selling out the ballroom shortly, a first in our history!