Donating to REACT DC's REACTwomen Program empowers and supports women from underserved communities by providing them with resources, mentorship, and opportunities in tech and entrepreneurship. By investing in this program, donors contribute to breaking down barriers to entry in these fields, fostering diversity and inclusion, and ultimately creating pathways to economic independence and leadership for women who might otherwise face systemic obstacles. Through REACTwomen, donors can directly impact the lives of individuals, strengthen communities, and contribute to a more equitable society.
Pathways to Independence and Opportunity for Refugee Women
Launched in September 2022 in collaboration with partner organizations, REACTwomen addresses the urgent need for gender-specific programs for Afghan and other newcomer women who often arrive with limited English proficiency, few support networks, and restricted access to education and mentorship. The program provides a structured, collaborative approach to help women achieve self-sufficiency, access employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, and gain the skills and confidence to thrive in their communities. Participants engage in ESL and digital literacy classes, vocational training such as sewing, mentorship, and empowerment workshops, building resilience, leadership, and a supportive peer network. With a focus on rights education and agency, REACTwomen empowers refugee women, promotes economic independence, and creates lasting opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Empowering Women, Transforming Lives
REACT DC’s Women’s Empowerment Program was created to address the unique challenges faced by newcomer women in the U.S. Many arrive with limited language skills, unfamiliarity with technology, and few opportunities for vocational training. This program, conducted in 12 week Cohorts, equips women with the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive personally, professionally, and socially, fostering long-term independence and community integration.
​
ESL Classes: Participants progress through three levels of English as a Second Language (ESL), improving their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. These classes help women communicate effectively in everyday life, navigate essential services, and gain confidence in professional settings.
​
Digital Literacy Classes: Two levels of digital literacy instruction provide participants with critical technology skills, including using computers, smartphones, and online platforms. This training enables women to access educational resources, apply for jobs, and manage personal and professional responsibilities in a digital world.
​
Sewing Skills Classes: Hands-on sewing instruction teaches practical vocational skills and encourages creativity. Women gain the ability to create handmade products, explore income-generating opportunities, and develop confidence in their abilities while learning a skill they can carry into the future.
​
This structured approach ensures that each cohort not only acquires technical skills but also builds resilience, self-advocacy, and a supportive community of women helping women succeed.
The program is generously funded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Essential Support for Families: Monthly Diaper & Goods Distribution
Every month, REACT DC organizes a community distribution event designed to provide essential items to families navigating financial and logistical challenges. Through our partnership with the Greater DC Diaper Bank, we are able to distribute over 5,000 diapers, ensuring that parents and caregivers have access to a critical resource for their babies and young children. Diaper need is a hidden yet widespread challenge, and this program helps reduce stress and support healthy early childhood development.
​
In addition, thanks to our collaboration with the Begin Again Foundation, we provide safe period products, helping women and girls manage their menstrual health with dignity and security. Access to these products is vital for maintaining school and work attendance, overall health, and personal confidence.
​
The monthly distribution events are more than just a handout—they are an opportunity to build community, connect families with additional REACT DC programs and services, and provide a consistent, dependable source of support. By addressing basic needs, these distributions empower families to focus on long-term stability, growth, and integration into the community.
International Women's Day
We are proud to present our video series, which is part of the 2023 International Women's Day celebrations and aligns with this year's theme of #EmbraceEquity. Our goal is to promote equity for women and inspire individuals to take action towards creating a more equitable world.
​
Created in partnership with partner organizations and individuals from REACT DC's Northern Virginia Asylum Clinic Team, our video series covers a range of women's topics, including the gender pay gap, women in leadership positions, gender-based violence and harassment, mental health, and reproductive rights and healthcare. The videos aim to educate viewers on the difference between equity and equality and encourage them to embrace equity by taking simple actions to support women's rights and opportunities.
​
Equity is about ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their full potential, regardless of their background or circumstances. By promoting equity for women, we can create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We hope that our video series will inspire you to join us in our mission towards a more equitable world.
IWD Women's Topics
We are committed to promoting equity for women every day of the year. As part of this commitment, we have created a video compilation that explores important women's topics. Our team and partners, including the Board of Directors, Directors, Staff, REACTlegal Application Specialists, and partners from Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area, Peace Lutheran - Alexandria, Afghan American Women’s Association, and Aseel, share their thoughts on what topics are important when it comes to celebrating and advocating for women's rights and opportunities. We believe that gender equality and women's empowerment are essential for creating a just and prosperous society. Our goal is to educate and inspire individuals to embrace equity by taking action to support women's rights and opportunities every day.
