Groups advocating for gender equality on Prince Edward Island have launched a new fundraising initiative called Shifting Sands. This effort, spearheaded by the United Way of P.E.I. in collaboration with the Chair’s Circle for Gender Equality, aims to address the growing demand and uncertain funding situation faced by organizations promoting gender equality on the island.
Treena Smith, the executive director of United Way P.E.I., emphasized that the goal of the Shifting Sands fundraiser is to establish stability and long-term sustainability for organizations dedicated to advancing gender equality. The fundraising target is set at $50,000, with the aim of reaching it by the end of March. The funds raised would support at least one organization for a year, with the potential to assist more agencies based on the total amount raised.
Applicants seeking funding will need to demonstrate their community contributions to be considered for support. The selection process involves a community impact council comprising local individuals, including members from the Chair’s Circle for Gender Equality, who evaluate various criteria such as need, reach, and impact of the organizations.
Mari Basiletti, a representative of the Chair’s Circle for Gender Equality and former chairperson of the P.E.I. Advisory Council on the Status of Women, highlighted the financial challenges faced by several equality-focused organizations, including the Women’s Network and the Coalition for Women’s Leadership. These groups often rely on grant funding, making their operations financially unstable.
Basiletti emphasized the ongoing need to advance equality, noting persistent issues such as unequal pay for women and gender-based exclusions in certain sectors. She stressed the importance of supporting organizations in their gender equality efforts, enabling them to focus on their missions rather than constantly seeking funding opportunities.
The fundraising campaign aims to provide these organizations with the financial stability needed to concentrate on their impactful work within the community.
