Ensuring Young Voices are Heard

Read what three youthful volunteers with the Community Fund for Women & Girls have to say

The Fund's annual grants process begins with the Grants Committee and includes the fresh perspectives of young women. Here's what three budding philanthropists want you to know about the world they envision, the value of the Fund and strategic philanthropy.

"I became interested in volunteering with the Fund after attending last year's 'Feminism's Frankensteins' event. I want to do everything in my power to make a world that is fairer for everyone. In this world, men don't have to be emotionless and strong, and women don't have to be silent and wait for their time to come."

Lily, 16 years old, Wallingford, CT

The Fund provides a great opportunity for women and girls to become leaders in the community. Generally, women and girls face economic and social challenges that prevent them from improving their lives. I believe the Fund helps to remove these obstacles by providing resources that allow organizations to offer services and programs that address the systematic causes of gender inequality.

Solanlly, 20 years old, New Haven, CT

"Philanthropy is strategic when we hone in on the community's strengths so that we can overcome its weaknesses. Giving to women and girls means telling them that they're a vital part of the community, and that they are worthy of our thought and investment."

Kiley, 20 years old, West Haven, CT

"I became interested in volunteering with the Fund after attending last year's 'Feminism's Frankensteins' event. I want to do everything in my power to make a world that is fairer for everyone. In this world, men don't have to be emotionless and strong, and women don't have to be silent and wait for their time to come."

Lily, 16 years old, Wallingford, CT

The Fund provides a great opportunity for women and girls to become leaders in the community. Generally, women and girls face economic and social challenges that prevent them from improving their lives. I believe the Fund helps to remove these obstacles by providing resources that allow organizations to offer services and programs that address the systematic causes of gender inequality.

Solanlly, 20 years old, New Haven, CT

"Philanthropy is strategic when we hone in on the community's strengths so that we can overcome its weaknesses. Giving to women and girls means telling them that they're a vital part of the community, and that they are worthy of our thought and investment."

Kiley, 20 years old, West Haven, CT