Maya* had everything it takes to succeed—motivation, intelligence and drive. But like too many girls growing up in under-resourced communities, she lacked something critical: access.
Without a device at home, Maya couldn’t complete her online homework assignments. Her mother needed the household laptop for work, leaving Maya to fall further behind in school despite her best efforts. Her science grade suffered—and so did her confidence.
That’s when IAmHER stepped in.
The local nonprofit works to close the financial education and literacy gap for middle school girls in low-income communities. Through targeted mentorship, learning resources and leadership development, IAmHER helps students like Maya build the knowledge and self-confidence they need to break the cycle of poverty and unlock their full potential.
Thanks to a $10,000 grant from United Way of Tarrant County’s (UWTC) Women United network, Maya received an internet-accessible tablet and support from IAmHER’s program staff. With that access, she could finally complete her assignments. The funding also helped the organization deepen its impact for all participants, providing funding to support a revised and improved curriculum.
With her new tablet, Maya raised her science grade by 33 points in just one grading period. She didn’t just catch up—she took off.
Her story is one of many showing how access to the right tools, combined with mentorship and encouragement, can change a girl’s path. Women United’s support of IAmHER ensures more students like Maya get connected to the resources they need to succeed.
For just $500 annually, you can join Women United in its commitment to empower women and girls in Tarrant County. Help us celebrate our collective impact at our fifth annual Investing in Impact Lunch on May 8, where we will award $75,000 in total grants to local nonprofits that align with our mission to champion programs that educate and uplift those in our community. Tickets are on sale now.
*Name has been changed.