Celebrating Women’s History Month: Past, Present, and Future

Celebrating Women’s History Month means acknowledging all of the remarkable contributions of past generations of women who have left their mark in the annals of history. From shaping major Supreme Court rulings to making groundbreaking strides at the Oscars, women have left an indelible mark on our country and their impact on our culture is undeniable. Join GrantWatch as we dive into the stories of a few of these remarkable leaders, artists, and innovators who have shattered barriers and made history.

It’s worth noting, however, that celebrating Women’s History Month means more than giving the normal oohs and aahs over famous women from our history books. Indeed, it also means acknowledging the everyday women here and now who strive to make a difference in the lives of others in their communities. We’re talking about business women, family women, and women who hold more than one title in the lives of those that love them. The trailblazing women of today carry not only the weight of expectations to live up to those who walked before them but also carry the responsibility for raising the next generation of strong, powerful women. And, of course, we must give a nod to those young girls who will one day choose their path according to the life lessons we have taught them. This is why celebrating Women’s History Month is so very important.

GrantWatch Historic Faves

Okay, yes, we have a few favorites. We’ve chosen the following three women since each has had a profound effect on US culture and history. However, we freely acknowledge that they are are but three of so many more.

• Rita Moreno: No one can deny that Rita Moreno is a true powerhouse of an actress, singer, and dancer. Her Career has spanned a lifetime. She has shone in every role, from Tuptim in The King and I to Catherine Wolf in Oz. But it’s her most famous role that has always been this writer’s favorite. Who could ever forget Anita in Westside Story? I grew up, as did many of us, wanting to be her.
• Ruth Marianna Handler: Yes, we’re including the woman who invented Barbie. Regardless of the controversies that have sometimes surrounded the Barbie doll, it’s impossible to deny that she was a wildly successful businesswoman and inventor.  After all, it’s no small fete to create the one doll in history whose name is famous, the world over. This historic woman revolutionized the toy industry and Barbie is still going strong today.
• Maya Angelou: A prolific writer, she published autobiographies, essays, plays, movies, and even two cookbooks. Dr. Angelou was also a strong, proud voice for civil rights, spoke six languages, and of course, wrote truly wonderful poetry. She was a symbol of wisdom, grace, and resilience whose words continue to resonate deeply with people around the world. Her profound insights into the human experience, coupled with her remarkable ability to weave words into poetry and prose, have left an indelible mark on literature and history.

And now for some grant funding

Grants Celebrating Women’s History Month

• Grants are available to female athletes and athletic teams to support individual or team needs. Funding is to be used for mental health services, sponsorships, and equipment purchases.
• In addition, there are grants available to women for career advancement in the area of news reporting.
• Grants of up to $10,000 and in-kind support are open to Black women entrepreneurs to support equal opportunities in business.
• Funding of up to $35,000 is also available to nonprofit organizations to support healthcare for disadvantaged women.
• There are grants of $500 available to women for urgent financial assistance. Funding is to help single mothers affected by the economic collapse due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Lastly, opportunities are available for Latina-owned businesses to participate in a professional development program.
• Next, fellowships of up to $2,000 to individuals to take part in an experience that fosters personal development. The program includes cheerleading camp, karate classes, basketball, and Maccabi games.
• Additionally, grants to nonprofits for youth sports activities and programs. BIPOC and disadvantaged youth, young women and girls, and youth living with disabilities are priorities. Funds may be used for sports equipment, program costs, and the renovation of sports facilities.
• Funding for nonprofit organizations to advance diversity in the fields of entrepreneurship and investments. Funding supports programs that benefit women and minority and under-represented communities.

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