The LeadHer Initiative

The University of Ottawa's United Way Student Association has been working with the Evelyn Horne Young Women's shelter for the past 3 years. Last year, we threw a Spa Day event and while giving the ladies a much needed pampering session, some girls opened up about the challenges that they faced in being a young, homeless woman. Despite their many hardships we were inspired to see how motivated and dedicated they were to finish High School, go to University and start/lead a great career. Unfortunately, it was made clear that the girls and young women do not have access to as many supports (e.g., career counselling, financial literacy courses and etc.) as a financially stable young woman would. In addition, some girls lacked confidence in their abilities to pursue their educational and professional goals. This is our motivation for launching the LeadHer Initiative.

The LeadHer Initiative will see the girls and young women living in the shelter receive 8 months (September 2016-April 2017) of leadership and confidence building activities.

Activities include: a financial literacy workshop, a self defense and safety awareness course, a First Impression workshop by Dress for Success Ottawa, a cupcake making night with the theme "love yourself" and much more!

The funds will mainly help us cover workshop fees.

The Fulcrum's article on the LeadHer Initiative