Introduction
World Wide Opportunities for Women (WWOW) is a non-profit, registered charity and non-sectarian organization, focused on improving the quality of life for women and their families. By fostering initiatives that enhance the development of women we effect positive change in our Kitchener-Waterloo community. Through research, education, advocacy and partnerships we empower disenfranchised members of our community and supply them with tools to raise their standard of living.

History
WWOW has been active in the Waterloo Region since 1994, and was founded in response to the needs of the multi-cultural community. It is called “world wide” because the women who are part of this organization share their experiences and knowledge from around the world, in order to assist new-Canadians integrate into the local society.

What we do
WWOW provides training in areas such as women’s health, family wellness and nutrition, and parenting in a “Western” culture. We have provided tutoring for younger children in English and Mathematics, and for adults in English as a Second Language (ESL) by partnering with local community centers. We provide advocacy on behalf of participants who require assistance accessing community services and legal advice. We also advocate on behalf of world human rights issues such as the eradication of Female Genital Mutilation.

Support Services for seniors include advocacy to facilitate complete access to health information, home care services and accessible programs. For youth there is the Youth Development Link program, which teaches life skills to immigrant youth wishing to adjust to their new community, overcome barriers and secure gainful employment. Also cultural sensitivity is provided as part of the Youth Empowerment Safety and Support Program.

In providing these services we aim to reduce violence and crime among our youth, increase workplace diversity and enhance the rate of successful community integration for new-Canadians.

What are we doing tomorrow?
WWOW continues to be a volunteer community-based organization, despite its incorporation in recent years. We are currently in the process of acquiring charitable status and creating a business strategy that will allow us to operate on a constant rather than project-by-project basis. In doing so we can offer our services year-round as required by our clients.