Madison, WI – 11/13/2024 – UNIDOS Against Domestic Violence, a dedicated leader in empowering the community to break the cycle of domestic violence, sexual assault, and humantrafficking, is thrilled to announce a significant multiyear funding commitment from the Roots & Wings Foundation. This partnership will empower UNIDOS to enhance its educational and healing programs and extend its reach within the community over the next three years.
The funding, totaling $255,000 over 3 years, will support a range of initiatives designed to equip survivors with the knowledge, resources, and confidence to support themselves and their families in the short and long-term. These initiatives also include designing healing spaces where community members can find support through disciplines such as counseling, art therapy, dancing, and meditation. With this support, UNIDOS aims to replicate its successful pilot programs launched in 2024, which include a financial literacy program for women and a series of dance and movement sessions, ultimately impacting the lives of over 1,000 individuals in our community.
"This funding marks a vital step forward in our mission to empower survivors by equipping them with essential resources and skills for sustainable independence," said Virginia Gittens Escudero, Executive Director of UNIDOS.
"With this support, we’re not only expanding access to critical programs like financial wellbeing and holistic healing, but also creating safe, welcoming spaces where survivors can reconnect with themselves and the community. By building on our recent pilot successes, we aim to positively impact the lives of over a thousand individuals, fostering resilience and hope in the journey toward lasting change."
Since 2020, Roots & Wings has partnered with nonprofit organizations that support low-income children and their families in reaching their full potential. This includes support for organizations providing direct care, as well as those advocating for systemic change. By doing so, the foundation can help families in need now while also working to prevent future generations from facing the same challenges.
"Our work at Roots & Wings is based on a belief that everyone deserves the right to live free from violence,” said Courtney Jiles, a program manager with Roots & Wings who helps direct the foundation’s Safety & Justice grantmaking. “This is why we support UNIDOS and their work to empower and advocate for survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault. When communities are safe, everyone, including children and their families, have the opportunity to thrive."
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