Resources for Women

GFWC Success for Survivors Scholarship

The GFWC Success for Survivors Scholarship was created to help survivors of intimate partner violence who are seeking a post-secondary education. The goals of the scholarship are to provide a means to achieve both financial and personal independence. The scholarship was first awarded in 2012 and since its inception, GFWC has awarded more than $97,500 in scholarship funds.

Candidates must meet all of the following eligibility requirements to apply:

Survived intimate partner abuse
Citizen or permanent legal resident of the United States
Enrolled or planning to enroll at an accredited public or private post-secondary or vocational institution
Recommended by a licensed or accredited domestic violence agency and/or counselor or social worker willing to provide information on behalf of the applicant

To apply for a scholarship or make a donation to the scholarship fund, visit http://www.gfwc.org/success-survivors

Helping Women Pay for College

There are numerous financial aid opportunities available to women that most don't know about. We created this guidebook to help women find and secure financial aid. Key elements of the guide include. http://www.affordablecollegesonline.org/womens-guide-paying-for-college/

A collection of scholarships for women, including due dates and award amounts for each
Insight into the financial aid application process
Other funding opportunities, like industry-specific scholarships and funding for special groups

Social Security and Women

The Social Security program treats all workers — men and women — exactly the same in terms of the benefits they can receive. But women may want to familiarize themselves with what the program means to them in their particular circumstances. Understanding the benefits may mean the difference between living more comfortably versus just getting by in retirement.

In the past, applying for benefits could be laborious, requiring you to drive to a Social Security office, wait, and fill out paperwork. Now, you can visit https://www.ssa.gov/forms/apply-for-benefits.html to find out everything you need to know about applying online for retirement benefits. And, when you’re ready, you can securely file the application online in as little as 15 minutes.

In most cases, after you submit your online application electronically, that’s it. There are no additional forms to sign or paperwork to complete. In rare cases, we’ll need additional information, and a representative will contact you.

Whether you’re receiving benefits or preparing for retirement, plan for your “Someday;” create your own my Social Security account at https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/. If you receive Social Security or SSI, my Social Security is the fastest way to get your benefit verification letter. If you’re not receiving benefits, check your annual Social Security Statement using my Social Security!

Financial Guides for Women

Women often face unique challenges in life that can dictate their financial lifestyle. MoneyGeek.com has created guides to empower women to feel confident when making financial decisions. The three guides highlight topics such as:

Women pursuing STEM careers
MoneyGeek.com Women in STEM Careers

Scholarships and financial aid for women
MoneyGeek.com: Scholarships & Grants for Women

Crafting the right message when negotiating a salary
MoneyGeek.com: Guide to Negotiating the Pay You Deserve