Becky Sykes's blog

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:

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.

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.
 

Those of us who came of age in the 1960’s and 70’s are eager to read Gail Collins’ new book, When It All Changed, which just came out.  We are even more eager to hear her comments in person at the DWF October 29 luncheon.