Shifting Sands fundraiser backs P.E.I. gender equality groups

New Fundraising Initiative for Gender Equality on Prince Edward Island

Groups on Prince Edward Island that promote gender equality have a new fundraising opportunity called Shifting Sands.

This initiative is led by the United Way of P.E.I. in partnership with the Chair’s Circle for Gender Equality.

Shifting Sands aims to meet the rising demand and unstable funding for organizations that advance gender equality on the Island.

Goals and Funding Details

Treena Smith, executive director of United Way P.E.I., stated that the Shifting Sands fundraiser focuses on creating stability and long-term sustainability for organizations working towards gender equality.

The fundraiser has a goal of $50,000, which Smith hopes to reach by the end of March.

“That would enable us to fund at least one organization for a year. The more money we raise, the more agencies we can fund, and the more support we can offer for the sector,” she said.

Application Process for Funding

Organizations seeking funding must apply and demonstrate their contributions to the community.

Smith mentioned, “We have a community impact council made up of local folks. One member is from the Chair’s Circle for Gender Equality.”

She added that the council considers various factors, including community needs and the number of people served.

Challenges in Achieving Gender Equality

Mari Basiletti, former chairperson for the P.E.I. Advisory Council on the Status of Women, represents the Chair’s Circle for Gender Equality. She noted that some organizations working towards equality face unstable income.

“Although we’ve made progress, we still have a long way to go. For instance, women still do not have equal pay for equal work,” she said.

Basiletti emphasized that fundraising will allow organizations to focus more on their work instead of seeking funding elsewhere.