They said she couldn't do it... A Journey of Leadership and Advocacy
After two years of organizing, refining our nonprofit board, and structuring our bylaws, Midwest Mujeres, Inc. has officially obtained IRS determination as a lawful 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. This milestone marks a significant moment in our journey—a step that solidifies our commitment to reducing poverty and income inequality through education and empowerment.
In light of federal funding freezes and audits impacting direct service organizations, I feel a deep sense of responsibility to educate and advocate for our mission. My personal journey as a first-generation professional has shaped this vision. In my late twenties, I longed for a space where I could access meaningful education—insights I didn’t receive in college, at home, or within my community.
I wanted to tell my story in a way that underscored the power of lived experiences and empower others. It's been a lovely journey from community advocate to author to founder. People told me build it in a way that you will like it for years to come. I love networking both online and in person. I like to teach storytelling, and I like entrepreneurial education.I love libraries! SO you put it all together, and you got Midwest Mujeres! PS Don't forget that storytelling is an art! We are an art organization and entrepreneurial education group. Many of our first members and cohort were artists and crafters. We still participate in various art-led endeavors like our storytelling series with Wisconsin Life LINK HERE!
My Story, Your Story, Our Stories is the History we need right now!
Being bilingual and bicultural didn’t require a degree, but it equipped me with invaluable problem-solving and strategic skills. Latinas are the second-largest group of women workers in the United States, yet many face systemic barriers to economic advancement. This reality fueled the creation of Midwest Mujeres—a digital and in-person community where women can access education, mentorship, and opportunities that drive financial empowerment.
Our mission is clear: to reduce poverty and income inequality by providing educational opportunities that empower women, particularly low-income, first-generation Latina and Black women. Our activities reflect this commitment:
Educational Programs for Women Entrepreneurs: We offer workshops, mentorship, and storytelling training to equip women with skills that enhance confidence and business acumen. Since our inception, 10 Latina and Black women have graduated from our full-stage storytelling and public speaking program, gaining critical skills for economic self-sufficiency.
In-Person Networking and Community Engagement: In 2024 alone, over 400 individuals attended our events, building connections and accessing resources that would otherwise be out of reach.
Partnership with Public Institutions: Collaborations with Dane County Libraries have allowed us to reach over 400 people in the past two years, broadening access to educational programming and professional development.
Rural Community Access: Our Ambassador Program has connected over 150 attendees to one-day events in rural areas, ensuring that underserved women can benefit from networking and educational support.
Support for Local Economies: By integrating Latina/o-owned businesses into our events, we promote economic sustainability within our communities.
As we move forward, we recognize the importance of strategic growth. With additional funding, we aim to hire a Member Manager to enhance engagement and support for our growing community. And we want to invest in a strategic plan for long-term sustainability, ensuring that Midwest Mujeres continues to serve as a pillar of empowerment and economic opportunity.
Day in the Life of a Latina Nonprofit Director
Being a nonprofit director comes with challenges, but it also presents an opportunity to reshape narratives, advocate for systemic change, and create spaces where women thrive. In the past weeks, I have been able to help spread accurate information on the civic rights of immigrants, and that privilege or knowledge for me is an honor that I can use our platform to validate accurate information. As we build momentum, I invite others to join us in this movement—because when women rise, communities rise with them. JUNTAS! TOGETHER!
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