Saving Lives — All in a Day’s Work
Victim advocates are the heart and soul of local domestic violence centers. On that first hotline call for help, a survivor will hear a kind voice on the other end asking if she’s safe to talk. The victim advocate and the survivor will discuss how she can stay safe at home, work, and school. They will discuss options for shelter, or for other services if shelter is not needed. When she arrives at the shelter or another location, the survivor and her advocate will work on the survivor’s plans for the future. Her advocate will connect her with resources and be part of her journey to safety and healing.
Volunteer Spotlight: Trina Medarev — Co-Chair of Membership
When Trina Medarev joined WGA in 2020, it sparked a journey of purpose for this dynamic leader, uniting her global perspective with a deep commitment to empowering women and girls in Northeast Florida. Keep reading to learn more about Trina’s leadership mindset and love for all things Miata.
$10 Million of Impact: Mental Health
In 2012, WGA members chose Mental Health as our first single focus area, marking a strategic shift in our grantmaking approach. This decision was informed by our 10th anniversary report, Stronger Voices…Better Lives, which built on findings from the 2004 Voices Heard study and highlighted mental health as a critical, underfunded need for women and girls in Northeast Florida.
2026-27 Proposed Slate of Officers
The Nominating Committee Proposes the following Slate of Officers for 2026-2027: Kirsten Martino President-Elect Karen Mayfield Secretary Mary Coleman Treasurer These accomplished leaders reflect the talent, dedication, and generosity that power WGA. We are grateful for their willingness to serve; and for the support of Members who make this work possible. WGA members will vote […]
Words Matter – How the Power and Control Wheel Helps Survivors Name Abuse and Begin to Heal
When a woman is involved in an abusive relationship, finding the words to describe what she is enduring can feel impossible. The Power and Control Wheel changes that.
$10M of Impact Series: Back to the Beginning
In 2001, the Women’s Giving Alliance was founded as an initiative of The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida using collective giving for strategic philanthropy to help improve the lives of women and girls. Nearly 25 years later, WGA has reached $10 million in grantmaking. It seems appropriate to give a brief recap of the first decade of grantmaking to remember how it started.
Volunteer Spotlight: Mary Strickland, Treasurer
Mary Strickland, WGA Treasurer, likes being in the spotlight more than might appear — especially if you catch her on stage doing improv. Learn more about Mary’s humorous theatrical alter ego and how she became involved with WGA in this short Q&A.
Back to School Checklist: Stop Bullying
As summer draws to a close, children across the country head back to school — eager to reunite with friends and meet new teachers, and worried about fitting in and staying safe.
Volunteer Spotlight: Joni Poitier, Grants Leadership Team Co-Chair
Joni Poitier, Grants Leadership Team Co-Chair, is guided in her WGA work by Maya Angelou who said, “When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.” Learn more below about Joni (who adores her SIX godchildren) and how she became involved with WGA, as well as what she hopes to accomplish as GLT Chair.
Supporting a Loved One Facing Violence in Northeast Florida
As women dedicated to lifting others up, we often find ourselves in the role of confidante, caregiver, or quiet champion. If someone close to you—perhaps a friend, colleague, or family member—might be experiencing domestic or sexual violence, your support can be a lifeline. Whether you’ve observed troubling signs or she has trusted you enough to share her story, your compassion and calm presence matter more than you may realize.