Women's Resource Center of Greensboro Inc.

Overview

The Women's Resource Center of Greensboro Inc., founded in 1995 by four local women, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the self-reliance of women by assessing their needs, providing services, and acting as a gateway to community resources. The center supports women in navigating various life challenges, including divorce, reentering the workforce, starting businesses, managing financial difficulties, and addressing family or health issues.

Mission

The mission of the Women's Resource Center of Greensboro is to empower women by identifying their needs and connecting them with appropriate community resources. This involves strategic leadership through collaboration and partnerships within the community. The center aims to foster an environment where women can grow into their full potential and use their intelligence and strength to solve problems.

Values

The Women's Resource Center values the dignity, worth, and potential of all individuals, treating everyone with respect and honoring their individuality and diversity. It emphasizes the ability of women to grow into their potential and acts as a change agent and advocate for an equal and just world. Additionally, the center encourages humor, fun, and celebration as essential components of life.

History

The initiative to establish a Women's Resource Center in Greensboro began in the mid-1990s with a group of local women who recognized the need for a central point where women could access community services. After researching existing models and assessing community needs, the center opened on August 26, 1995, at the historic Ireland House. Over the years, it has moved several times, eventually opening a permanent location in April 2003. Today, the center serves nearly 4,500 women annually.

Programs and Services

1. Gateway to Community Services: Provides information and resources through an information kiosk, bulletin boards listing jobs and local events, and limited computer access.

2. Community Resource Counseling: Offers support, problem-solving, goal-setting, and referral services to help women access community resources.

3. Women to Work Program: Offers career assessments, skill development, and job placement assistance in a women-only setting.

4. Community Education and Support Groups: Includes workshops on financial, physical, emotional, and relationship health, facilitated by community partners.

5. Free Attorney Hotline & Legal Information Services: Offers legal advice in various fields, supporting women through life transitions.

Visionary Gems Giving Society

The Women's Resource Center has a giving society known as Visionary Gems, which supports the center's programs through sustained financial contributions. Members of this society contribute to empowering women and fostering economic strength in the community.