Statistically speaking

Tragically, sexual assault, abuse and trafficking are trending upward in Wisconsin and nationally. In Wisconsin, 20 percent of women will experience gender-based violence in their lifetime. In 2016, Wisconsin received 369 tips or cases from the National Human Trafficking Hotline. In the same year, Waukesha police received 901 calls of potential domestic violence. Sadly, most incidents of sexual assault, abuse and trafficking go unreported.

Survivors often experience physical, mental, emotional, economic and systemic harms, resulting in complex legal burdens. Prosecuting cases is grueling and victims may cycle repeatedly through the system. Unrepresented survivors often experience secondary trauma stemming from the criminal case against their perpetrator.

Improving the odds

In 2018, the Women and Girls Fund awarded a $10,000 grant to Lotus Legal Clinic, a nonprofit organization providing free legal services to women and girls in Waukesha County who are victims of sexual assault, abuse or trafficking. Lotus protects victims’ rights; meets civil legal needs resulting from sexual violence; represents survivors in administrative, agency and protective proceedings; and provides general criminal background clearing for survivors of sex trafficking. Through a holistic approach, Lotus integrates legal advocacy with the work of service providers to help clients reach a more stable life, as well as offering the necessary support to achieve their goals.

In 2018, thanks to the generosity of our donors, the Women and Girls Fund awarded grants totaling more than $90,000 to area agencies delivering innovative programs that achieve results and empower Waukesha County women and girls. Positive change is happening.

View our video to see how we are making a difference one grant at a time.

The Women and Girls Fund of Waukesha County, established in 2004, seeks to aid and enrich the lives of women and girls so they become thriving residents of their communities. Since 2005, the Women and Girls Fund has awarded nearly $900,000 to nonprofit organizations that promote the welfare, independence and self-sufficiency of women and girls of all ages.

Now accepting nominations for the 35th Anniversary

2019 Women of Distinction Awards

For 35 years, the Waukesha community has been honoring outstanding women - those who excel professionally, academically and in the public arena. Since 2005, the Women and Girls Fund of Waukesha County has had the distinct pleasure of continuing this tradition by sponsoring the Women of Distinction Luncheon. As a friend and support of the Women and Girls Fund, we ask you to consider nominating an exceptional woman, or young woman, for these honors.

A $1,000 grant will be awarded in the name of each honoree to a nonprofit organization of their choice that supports programs and projects that benefit women and girls in Waukesha County.

Nominees must be able to attend an event reception on Thursday, May 9, 2019 and accept her award at the luncheon on Friday, May 10, 2019.

Questions may be directed to Barb Tewes-Berndt, co-chair of the judging committee at 414.879.2285 or send an email to contact@wgfwaukeshacounty.org.