Shifting Sands Fundraiser Seeks $50,000 to Support Gender Equality in P.E.I.

A new initiative called Shifting Sands has been launched to support organizations in Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) that advocate for gender equality. Led by the United Way of P.E.I. in partnership with the Chair’s Circle for Gender Equality, this fundraising effort aims to address the increasing demand and fluctuating funding faced by these organizations.

The initiative is particularly timely, as many local groups are struggling to maintain stable income while continuing their essential work. Treena Smith, the executive director of United Way P.E.I., emphasized the importance of this fundraiser, stating that it is about creating long-term sustainability for organizations focused on gender equality.

Fundraising Goals and Community Impact

The Shifting Sands fundraiser has a target of $50,000, with hopes to reach this goal by the end of March 2024. According to Smith, achieving this milestone would enable funding for at least one organization for an entire year. She noted, “The more money we raise, the more agencies we’re able to fund, and the more support we can offer for the sector.”

Organizations seeking funding will need to apply and demonstrate their impact on the community. Smith mentioned a community impact council made up of local residents, which will evaluate applications based on various criteria, including the number of people served and the outcomes achieved.

Former chairperson of the P.E.I. Advisory Council on the Status of Women, Mari Basiletti, who also represents the Chair’s Circle for Gender Equality, highlighted that several local organizations, such as the Women’s Network and the Coalition for Women’s Leadership, are currently operating with limited and unstable funding. “There are four or five different groups that are working towards equality who are often going from grant to grant looking for the money to run their programs,” Basiletti explained.

Continuing the Fight for Equality

Despite progress made in the past, Basiletti pointed out that significant challenges remain. Issues such as the gender pay gap and the lack of representation in leadership roles persist. “We’ve only had one female premier so far in P.E.I.,” she noted, emphasizing the need for ongoing support for organizations striving to advance gender equality.

The funds raised through the Shifting Sands initiative will allow these organizations to concentrate more on their missions rather than the constant search for funding. Basiletti expressed hope that this effort will provide the necessary resources to continue the vital work required to achieve gender equality in the community.

As the campaign unfolds, community members are encouraged to contribute to this important cause, ensuring that the fight for equality continues to gain momentum in P.E.I.