PHOTO PROVIDED: Members of We Are Women Helping Others pose for a group photo celebrating the organization’s 15th anniversary.
In the spirit of community empowerment, a local organization called We Are Women Helping Others (WAWHO) has become a beacon of hope, celebrating 15 years of impactful service. With a guiding philosophy inspired by Mother Theresa’s message about creating ripples of change, WAWHO emphasizes collaboration and collective action. Their motto, “it doesn’t take a lot to do a lot when you do it together,” encapsulates their mission to support local non-profits.
Foundation and Growth
WAWHO began in response to a conversation between founding members Maddi Dunlap and Penny Estes, who were inspired to assist existing non-profit organizations rather than starting new ones. Their initial discussions led to a brainstorming session that attracted like-minded friends interested in pooling resources.
Starting with only a handful of members, the group has now grown to about 30 regular participants who meet monthly to make collective donations. This growth has been largely organic, relying on social connections rather than formal recruitment strategies.
Impact Through Collaboration
The collective has managed to raise over $87,000 in funds and donated various tangible items to local causes. Dunlap emphasizes that the group members are not affluent individuals; rather, they are everyday women unified by a common goal of making a meaningful difference.
During meetings, members discuss different non-profits and their needs. They consider various requests for support based on personal experiences or communications received from those organizations. The flexible structure allows contributions to be made as they arise, whether in cash or physical donations. For instance, WAWHO has partnered with the Susquehanna Health Foundation to provide comfort items like adult coloring books for patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Ongoing Initiatives
One notable ongoing project is the “Hut of Hope” at the YWCA, which serves as a resource center stocked with toiletries for those in need. Since launching this initiative in May 2021, WAWHO has donated over 8,000 personal care items. Furthermore, the group has consistently contributed to a blessing box at Trinity Episcopal Church, ensuring food is available for community members facing food insecurity.
Engagement with Non-Profits
WAWHO has adopted an inclusive approach, inviting representatives from various non-profits to participate in meetings, which fosters direct communication regarding community needs. Members are encouraged to bring in additional items based on these interactions, thereby expanding the impact of their donations.
A Call to Action
Dunlap emphasizes that the essence of WAWHO lies in its simplicity and accessibility. “What we’re doing isn’t all that special. Anybody could do this,” she remarked, underscoring that consistent, small contributions can accumulate into significant aid for the community.
As WAWHO looks toward future endeavors, its members remain steadfast in their belief that collaborative efforts can make a profound difference in the lives of others. This community-focused initiative continues to inspire many, reminding individuals that every small effort counts in the fabric of social change.
