
Staff Reports | Free Press Philanthropy
The Women’s Collective has awarded grants to three Valley organizations whose programs are designed to expand opportunities, build skills and create pathways for women to lead, thrive and achieve greater economic independence.
The grants were awarded to Young & Empowered, Live & Learn and Mujeres Latinas. With the latest awards, The Women’s Collective has distributed more than $100,000 in grants to organizations supporting women across the Valley, according to a press release.
The three organizations were selected for programs that align with The Women’s Collective’s mission of advancing women’s leadership, economic mobility and community engagement.
“We are proud to invest in organizations that are creating meaningful, lasting opportunities for women throughout our community,” said Jillian Ladegard, president of The Women’s Collective. “These three organizations are helping women build confidence, strengthen their skills, grow their businesses and create greater economic stability. This is exactly the kind of impact The Women’s Collective was created to support.”
Young & Empowered will offer two career development workshops focused on providing women with practical tools for professional advancement. Topics will include salary negotiation, career transitions and leadership development, helping participants prepare for future career opportunities.
Live & Learn will launch Community: Roots & Rising, an eight-week workforce readiness program that includes curriculum, facilitators, networking opportunities and participant support. The program is intended to help women develop skills and connections that support long-term financial stability.
Mujeres Latinas will expand digital and artificial intelligence literacy opportunities for women entrepreneurs through an eight-week hybrid program that includes training, mentorship, technology tools and bilingual outreach. The program is designed to help participants integrate new technologies into their businesses and explore additional economic opportunities.
Together, the three grant recipients reflect The Women’s Collective’s focus on investing in programs that support women’s professional and economic growth.
Since its founding, The Women’s Collective has continued to support organizations and initiatives that expand opportunities for women throughout the Valley. The organization has awarded more than $100,000 in grants to date and continues to support programs intended to create measurable community impact.
“We believe that when women have access to the right resources, connections and opportunities, they can transform not only their own lives but also their families, businesses and communities,” Ms. Ladegard said. “These grants are an investment in that potential, and we are excited to see what these organizations accomplish in the year ahead.”

















