The mission of Future Women of America Inc. is to empower and uplift underprivileged young women by providing leadership development opportunities and scholarships that promote academic success, personal growth, and community engagement. Through mentorship, education, and skill-building programs, we aim to equip these future leaders with the tools, confidence, and support needed to achieve their goals, break generational barriers, and inspire positive change in their communities and beyond.
Future Women of America was founded in 2010 by Earlene Drane, a high school student who excelled in cosmetology and hair care. Recognizing the importance of education beyond her trade, Earlene pursued secondary education as a way to expand her knowledge and build new social and business structures. Her vision was clear: to support underprivileged young women who aspire to attend college and reach their fullest potential.
Earlene Drane founded Future Women of America Inc. with a vision rooted in resilience, education, and empowerment—values that continue to shape every initiative we pursue. Built specifically to serve underprivileged young women, our organization is dedicated to providing life-changing opportunities through mentorship, scholarships, and leadership development. Since its inception, FWA has donated over 1,000 toys to children during the holiday season, bringing joy and hope to families in need. Through our Sister to Sister Mentorship Program, we’ve also provided guidance and emotional support to over 100 young women, helping them navigate personal challenges and academic pursuits with confidence and purpose.
To continue expanding our impact, we are seeking $50,000 in funding to support the secondary education of two qualified young women. This investment will cover essential academic expenses, ensuring these future leaders have the tools and resources needed to succeed. As part of our ongoing community engagement, $5,000 will also be allocated to our annual Future Women of America Beauty Pageant. This celebrated event allows participants to showcase their talents, skills, and educational goals, while building confidence and public recognition. More than just a pageant, it is a powerful platform to affirm that education is our top priority, and that every scholarship is earned through merit, passion, and dedication.
Our initiative is focused on underprivileged young women who aspire to pursue higher education but face significant financial barriers. These are ambitious and determined individuals who see college as a pathway to a better future but lack the financial resources or support systems to get there.
An increasing number of young women from low-income backgrounds are grappling with the harsh reality of affording college tuition. According to 74million.org, there has been a troubling decline in college enrollment among underprivileged women. In the fall of 2022, enrollment for female college freshmen dropped by 3.2%, which is more than double the rate of decline for their male counterparts, who saw only a 1.3% decrease.
This decline is not an isolated trend but part of a broader, systemic issue. Historically, students from low-income families have enrolled in college at significantly lower rates compared to their wealthier peers. For example, in 2016, the immediate college enrollment rate for students from low-income families was only 67%, whereas students from high-income families enrolled at a much higher rate of 83%.
These statistics highlight the persistent gap in access to higher education, disproportionately affecting young women who already face additional social and economic challenges. Without intervention, this divide will only continue to widen, leaving countless capable and deserving young women without the opportunities they need to change their futures.
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