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Our story began during the pandemic. I had lost my job to racial discrimination at an organization where I had worked as a contractor, raising thousands of dollars for grassroots nonprofits. I was humiliated, belittled, and isolated. That last part was the one I remember most. The isolation and humiliation that I felt when I walked into spaces in Madison. Many women who are survivors of abuse on the job or in relationships feel this pain. I'm also a survivor of domestic violence. As a child and teenager, I faced many nights in fear. This beginning might seem like a negative. Heather coached me and so many others to think about the direction of Midwest Mujeres But let me tell you something about being a survivor. We are genius untapped. We are innovators unrecognized. We are leaders unknown. During the pandemic, we all had to pause and look inward. Many people realized that they were working for someone else's dream, and the great resignation began. We wanted to work for our own dreams. Midwest Mujeres was born out of a lack of recognition of the power of Latinas and Black women in Dane County. In 2020, we hosted several "TalkBacks" shows on YouTube, featuring artists, political candidates , health professionals, and mothers. Our actions caught the eye of our local PBS radio show, Wisconsin Life, and we took the best of our stories, and a five-part series was born . From there, we decided to take our stories to the main stage. Our openning night, we had over 180 people show up. So we did it again. And again. Yo Quiero Dinero was our north star against the oppression that steals our stories. I, along with 10 coaches, train over 80 people in our community over 12 weeks. https://www.midwestmujeres.com/post/voices-and-dreams-academy-our-stories-have-value We teach them financial education, self-esteem, and embodiment, and how to put their stories together for flow and impact. They teach us about prayer, faith, and resilience, like how coal turns into diamonds. They show us the brilliance of community. My personal journey of becoming a founder might have begun from a place of sadness or rejection, but that was just the spark. I found hope in the stories of other women. When I began to share my story, they shared mine. I could not help but think, "If I'm learning from you, what could others learn? What inspiration would other people get?" Johnathan Delgado has been in many ways our Co-Founder and Biggest believer in the mission--Thanks, Brother De Puerto Rico! Boriqua 100%! In the last few months, we have been supported by TruStage, Ascedium Education, Widen Foundation, and now the Solar Grant. They believe in what we believe, that providing education and a platform for stories of resilience is what our community needs right now. We (Latinas and Black women) are the lowest paid in this country, and yet here we are serving up hope. We are often discriminated against violently at work and abused at home. We carry things that most would not dare touch. In our stories, we do not mince our words; we do not dismiss the pain that we felt or witnessed. Our stories are not for petty. We want you to raise our worth by networking us into rooms where we are not invited to! We know racism exists, and we might be here to see its fall, but in the meantime, we will continue to teach our community the many multitudes of bright lights that shine through those bad times. When they passed us up in school, when we were abused by hands that were family, by society that said our hair wasn't right, by those who laughed at our accent, by boyfriends or husbands who hurt us, by jobs that didn't pay us, by all the things that were set out to destroy us. We will continue to be loud and be bold. Midwest Mujeres is us. When I found out we got funding tonight that will pull us through the rest of the year, I cried a little, prayed, and got on my knees to ask for forgiveness for doubting myself. Poco a poco, we are doing it. Gratitude is my word tonight. In each heartbreak, I'm learning to walk in my power, God's plan, and work out the legacy that my Abuelita left so many years ago when she came as a migrant farm worker to pick beets in Nebraska and corn in Sun Prairie, only to clean the floors of the UW Humanities building. She was a union worker. She and my mother were the first Midwest Mujeres in our family, and now we can take that story of community to others. PS Happy Women's History Month!

In celebration of our 100th blog post, we wanted to highlight our most-searched topic! Chingona became a popular term in 2017 when a woman in California decided to retake the work and make handbags that went viral! Throughout Latin America and in many Latinx communities in the United States, the word chingona had negative connotations. But that all changed when a Latina DIY creator,  Melina Duarte , decided to take back the word and define it on handbags. The movement caught on fire online, and we all began calling each other Chingonas! Chingona means a woman who is intelligent, fearless, and can get things done! The word has historically been used to describe women who are “too aggressive,” while the masculine version of “chingon” is used to compliment men. Mujeres/Women are now taking the word to mean a universal way to become the best version of who you are, without discounting your roots, history, and culture! Below is the tote bag that went viral back in 2017! Now that we have your attention Chingonas! Here is our reel from this year's Yo Quiero Dinero Storytelling show:

Are you ready to take your business and personal finances to the next level? I know I am! Financial growth is not just about making more money; it’s about building a strong foundation that supports your dreams and ambitions. One of the most powerful ways to unlock this growth is by participating in financial growth workshops designed specifically for Latina and other Black and Brown women entrepreneurs. These workshops offer practical tools, inspiring stories, and a supportive community that can transform your financial future. Let’s dive into how these workshops can empower you, the key strategies they teach, and how you can start applying these lessons today! Why Financial Growth Workshops Are a Game-Changer Financial growth workshops are more than just classes—they are experiences that open doors to new opportunities. When you join a workshop, you’re stepping into a space where knowledge meets action. You get to learn from experts who understand the unique challenges faced by women of color in business. Plus, you connect with peers who share your passion and drive. Here’s why these workshops are so impactful: Tailored Content: The lessons focus on real-world financial challenges and solutions relevant to your community. Hands-On Learning: You don’t just listen—you engage in exercises that help you apply what you learn immediately. Networking Opportunities: Building relationships with other entrepreneurs can lead to collaborations, mentorship, and support. Confidence Boost: Gaining financial literacy and business skills empowers you to make bold decisions. Imagine walking away from a workshop with a clear plan to increase your revenue, reduce debt, or invest wisely. That’s the kind of transformation that fuels long-term success. Women entrepreneurs engaged in a financial growth workshop How Financial Growth Workshops Help You Build Wealth Building wealth is a journey, and financial growth workshops provide the roadmap. They break down complex financial concepts into manageable steps. Here’s what you can expect to learn and implement: Budgeting and Cash Flow Management: Understand where your money is going and how to optimize it. Debt Reduction Strategies: Learn effective ways to pay down debt without sacrificing your business growth. Smart Investing: Discover investment options that align with your goals and risk tolerance. Business Financial Planning: Create budgets, forecasts, and financial goals tailored to your business. Credit Building: Improve your credit score to access better financing options. These workshops often include interactive tools like budgeting templates, debt payoff calculators, and investment planners. You’ll leave with actionable steps that fit your unique situation. For example, one participant shared how she used a workshop’s budgeting tool to identify unnecessary expenses and redirected those funds into marketing her business. Within months, her sales increased by 30%! That’s the power of practical financial education. What are Dave Ramsey's 7 baby steps to financial success? Dave Ramsey’s 7 baby steps are a proven framework for achieving financial stability and growth. Many financial growth workshops incorporate these steps because they are straightforward and effective. Here’s a quick overview: Save $1,000 for a starter emergency fund. This small cushion protects you from unexpected expenses. Pay off all debt (except the house) using the debt snowball method. Focus on the smallest debt first to build momentum. Save 3-6 months of expenses in a fully funded emergency fund. This provides security during tough times. Invest 15% of your household income into retirement. Start early to maximize growth. Save for your children’s college fund. Plan ahead to reduce future financial stress. Pay off your home early. Becoming mortgage-free increases your financial freedom. Build wealth and give generously. Use your financial success to support causes and communities you care about. These steps are designed to be followed in order, creating a clear path from financial chaos to control. Workshops help you customize these steps to your personal and business finances, making them even more effective. How to Choose the Right Financial Growth Workshop for You Not all workshops are created equal. To get the most out of your experience, consider these tips when selecting a financial growth workshop: Look for Cultural Relevance: Choose workshops that understand and celebrate your identity and experiences. Check the Credentials: Ensure the facilitators have proven expertise in finance and entrepreneurship. Read Reviews and Testimonials: Hearing from past participants can give you insight into the workshop’s impact. Consider Format and Accessibility: Whether online or in-person, pick a format that fits your schedule and learning style. Evaluate the Curriculum: Make sure the topics align with your current financial goals and challenges. For example, the Midwest Mujeres Collective offers workshops specifically designed to empower Latina and Black and Brown women entrepreneurs. Their programs focus on closing the gender wage gap and fostering economic survival and success within the community. Remember, investing in a workshop is investing in yourself. The right workshop will provide you with tools and confidence that pay dividends for years to come. Financial planning notes from a success workshop Taking Action: Your Next Steps to Financial Growth Now that you understand the value of financial growth workshops, it’s time to take action. Here’s a simple plan to get started: Identify Your Financial Goals: What do you want to achieve in the next 6 months? 1 year? 5 years? Research Workshops: Look for programs that resonate with your goals and values. Register and Commit: Sign up and mark your calendar. Treat the workshop like a vital business meeting. Engage Fully: Participate actively, ask questions, and network with fellow attendees. Implement What You Learn: Use the tools and strategies immediately to see real progress. Track Your Progress: Regularly review your financial goals and adjust your plan as needed. Remember, growth doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a journey of consistent effort and learning. By investing in yourself through a financial success workshop , you’re setting the stage for lasting financial empowerment. Financial growth workshops are more than just educational events—they are catalysts for change. They equip you with the knowledge, skills, and community support to break barriers and build wealth. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale your business, these workshops offer a path to financial freedom and success. So, why wait? Unlock your financial potential today and join a workshop that celebrates your unique journey. Your future self will thank you!

Take a front seat in the improvement and empowerment of your personal and professional life by joining Midwest Mujeres at any of our events or through our cohort programs designed just for you. Our Programs Education and Empowerment for Everyday Women Ambassador Program Juntas, together we are growing and writing, speaking out about our goals. Midwest Mujeres is a support group for women who need professional speaking and networking tools. Join our events, get to know our community of empowerment, networking, and education. We focus on the art of storytelling. We help you redefine yourself today, not based on your past. We welcome all women, but we focus primarily on women over the age of 45. We center low-income women and survivors, and formally incarcerated women. I'm Interested! Voces y Sueños Academy 🌟 Calling All Women Entrepreneurs! 🌟 Are you ready to take your business to the next level? Join Voces y Sueños Academy, a transformational accelerator designed to support Latina and Black mujeres entrepreneurs—especially those over 50—on their journey to financial success! Participants will receive over $5,000 in high-quality business coaching in storytelling, public speaking, marketing, branding, legal assistance, and financial education—all to help you scale your business! Plus, you'll have the opportunity to share your story on stage at our annual Yo Quiero Dinero event! Sign Up Yo Quiero Dinero Event Mujeres Circles Support Group Guest Speakers on topics that you want! Networking Shared Learning Adult Education Childcare + Light Food is available for our inperson meetings I'm Interested...

Make a difference Change starts with people like you. Your donation helps make a real impact, one action at a time. Together, we can do more. $0 raised Fundraising goal: $7,000 $7,000 0 donations No days left 0% Frequency One time One time Monthly Monthly Amount $5 You believe in the cause! You believe in the cause! $5 $25 Your donation sustains our monthly Cafecito leadership circle Your donation sustains our monthly Cafecito leadership circle $25 $50 Your support helps us pay for childcare or provide childcare scholarships or give our students gas cards Your support helps us pay for childcare or provide childcare scholarships or give our students gas cards $50 Option You are cheering us on! This contribution supports group training sessions for the Voices and Dreams Academy, our signature 14-week certificate program: Financial Wellness, Branding, and Storytelling $100 Option Now we are impacting the Program!vCovers food + childcare for participants. We provide a hot meal to our participants/students and their kids at each of the trainings that last for 14 weeks. $250 $500 Funds professional faculty hours Funds professional faculty hours $500 $1,000 Sponsors Yo Quiero Dinero performances + professional video reels Sponsors Yo Quiero Dinero performances + professional video reels $1,000 Other Other 0/100 Comment (optional) Donate $5 Facebook WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link

This is a page where donors, sponsors, and grantors can learn about Midwest Mujeres and make an online donation. Community Investment Who We Are and the Social Capital We Create! We Need Your Support to Don Francis EDUCATE AND TRANSFORM THE LIVES OF LOCAL LATINAS AND BLACK WOMEN This year alone, we have supported and provided quality master classes to over 80 women of color. We host monthly virtual classes and in-person education for Latinas and Black women. We partner with local organizations to provide storytelling and self-esteem-boosting classes for participants. We have provided these services to groups in Waukesha, Milwaukee, Racine, and rural Dane County, as well as to the UW-Madison Latino student organizations. Last year, we supported over 400 women. Email us to learn about our sponsorship returns on investments. Connect | Support MIDWEST MUJERES Inc. Is a nonprofit organization! EIN: 92-1175244 Support Future Women Leaders Ashley Jones Voices and Dreams has graduated 15 women in full-stage storytelling, allowing them to pitch their businesses live. In 2024, over 400 people participated in our programs, while our Program with Dane County Libraries reached over 150 attendees at rural events, enhancing access for women in underserved communities. Connect | Support Making Connections Building Social Capital Sponsor Our Educational Programs Tess Brown The Voices and Dreams Academy is not only a business accelerator; it is a trauma-informed, bilingual safe space where women reclaim their voice, develop public speaking skills, and pitch their businesses to a live audience. Since inception, we’ve helped 10 women move from idea to business launch. I'll Ready To Give! Didn't go to College? Quality Education is a Right Be the Change Agent for our Annual Event Lisa Rose In 2022, we conducted a membership survey of nearly 100 Latina and Black women, supervised by the Mobilizing Action Toward Community Health (MATCH) Group in partnership with the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute. Data was collected via Google Forms and reflects the lived experiences and financial realities of our participants. Our findings revealed that over 75% of respondents qualified as low- to moderate-income, and 77% required childcare support to attend programs. Additionally, 88% believed the skills gained through our training would increase their income or benefit their business. Telling your story is Powerful Growing Together is Powerful These insights have shaped our programming, including Voices and Dreams Academy, which provides culturally grounded entrepreneurial training, storytelling, and financial literacy support. This work not only uplifts individuals—it addresses structural inequities and economic disparities in our community. What do your dollars help with? Anchor 1 Sponsor Anchor 2 I want to support! First name* Last name* Email* Phone Company name Comment Submit