The Institute for Women's Empowerment, Inc.

When women are empowered, they empower each other.

Who We Are

At the Institute for Women's Empowerment (IFWE), we believe every woman deserves the tools to shape her future. Our purpose is to support the personal, social, academic, and leadership development of women from all walks of life. Founded by Dr. Claudia Curry, IFWE was born from doctoral research and a growing demand for programs and services designed to meet the developmental needs of women who are struggling with issues that affect their ability to achieve in a variety of arenas. Our goal is to foster personal growth, social connection, academic advancement, and leadership development among women. We provide the knowledge, confidence, and support needed to make informed choices and lead fulfilling lives. This is accomplished through educational processes designed to increase the understanding of the meaning of empowerment, promote self-empowerment through group participation, and raise the awareness of the relationship between empowerment and personal behavior.

Mission 

Mission: To address the unique development needs of women across economic, educational, social and professional spectrums - ensuring they have the resources to thrive.

Core Focus Areas

• Education and Training – Workshops, skill-building, and life-long learning opportunities
• Leadership Development – Preparing women for leadership in workplaces, civic life, and community
• Economic Empowerment – Resources that strengthen financial independence
• Community Engagement – Partnerships that connect women to mentors, networks, and supportive services

Why It Matters

Empowerment is the process of acknowledging the hidden strength of others and assisting them to act purposefully and assertively to reach their growth potential (Miller, 1994).

"Every woman empowered becomes a multiplier of impact - strengthening families, communities, and local economics."

A survey of women in Delaware County revealed that the primary motivations for participating in empowerment training through the Institute for Women's Empowerment include personal growth, self-improvement, skill development, and networking. Many respondents seek to build confidence and pride, support other women, and maintain focus on self-care and personal goals. For some, the training represents an opportunity for continued growth, particularly during life transitions such as becoming an empty nester.

The survey identified the most sought-after topics for empowerment training with a strong emphasis on mental health and well-being. Mental health, self-care and wellness, and building self-esteem emerged as top priorities. Other key areas of interest include effective communication, financial fitness, and managing relationships. Additionally, respondents expressed interest in work-life balance, managing conflict, positive imagery, and holistic healing through '"Heal Your Life, Heal Your Mind".

Survey results demonstrate a strong demand for empowerment training, with the majority of respondents expressing interest in such programs. While some participants have prior experience with empowerment training, many do not, highlighting an opportunity to engage both newcomers and those seeking to further their growth. This underscores the need for accessible, impactful programs that foster personal and collective empowerment among Delaware County women. Additionally, the survey results validate a remark from Mischico Warren, Vice President of Nonprofit Services at the DELCO Foundation who affirmed during our October 30, 2024, virtual meeting, "This is much needed."

Testimonials

"Before IFWE, I didn't think I had the power to change my situation. Now, I have the confidence and tools to build a better future." (Marcella Stokes)

"Empowerment is a tool. IFWE gave me that tool, and I now use it to uplift others." (Takima Darnell)

"The encouragement we receive here is life-changing. It reminds us that we are powerful and capable of achieving our goals." (Gloria Chriswell)