These Ideas are So Simple and Impactful
Behind every successful woman is herself — but it never hurts to have some support along the way! International Women’s Day is coming up March 8, reminding us all to celebrate the strength of women, stand up for gender equality, and uplift the women in our lives.
Unsure where to start? No fear, we’re here to help. Our incredible community of women at UGM has 6 tips to pass along to you, so that more women can be empowered — because we are all about uplifting women and helping them live their best lives through our life-saving programs. So go celebrate the women in your life, because they so deserve it (and if you’re a woman, that includes YOU!).
A UGM guest enjoying a meal at our Easter Meal in 2020.
1. Cook a meal for the women in your life
Why not put your cooking or baking skills to use? After all, food is the way to the heart. Surprise them with their favourite home-cooked meal to show them they’re loved and valued — especially if their love language is acts of service. Plus, you can make it extra special by decorating the space (maybe hang up some fairy lights or light a candle), so it feels even more like a celebration. If you’re not much of a baker/chef, check out these easy dessert recipes that are sure to satisfy.
At UGM, we know how empowering a meal can be. Not only does it fulfill a basic need, but a meal can be a launching pad for a fresh start. In our experience at UGM, a meal is the starting connection to our other lifesaving services, like our recovery programs and affordable housing. That’s why we offer daily meals to women and families in need. On top of this, we also host celebratory meals for our guests so that they feel loved and remembered.
Our upcoming Easter Meal in April will offer a COVID-19 safe celebration in a time of crisis. We will be serving hundreds of hearty meals throughout the Easter long weekend to offer hope in a dark time to our guests in need.
2. Send a heartfelt email or message and tell someone why they inspire you:
“To celebrate the women in your life, take a moment or two and reflect on what you most admire about them, then give them a call or send them a text!” – Maria, Women & Families Outreach
This is a quick, easy way to brighten up someone’s day! Send a thoughtful message to your friend, sister, girlfriend, or co-worker. At UGM, we are honoured to have so many strong women as a part of our team. If you’re interested in joining our team, visit ugm.ca/careers.
“With some of my best friends living in different countries, sending a card or note through the mail is something I like to do. It’s a simple but heartfelt way to celebrate women in your life and also a lovely surprise for someone even if they live locally. There’s something special about receiving a handwritten card, that you know your friend took that extra effort to show they are thinking of you.” – Alvina, Marketing and Communications Team
A photo taken before COVID-19 of our staff gifting flowers to community members for International Women’s Day.
3. Show your solidarity by posting a photo on social media with the official International Women’s Day hashtag: #ChooseToChallenge
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #ChooseToChallenge. Why? Because “we can all choose to challenge and call out gender bias and inequality. We can all choose to seek out and celebrate women’s achievements. Collectively, we can all help create an inclusive world,” as said by the official International Women’s Day website.
To see empowering photos and read inspiring stories about women breaking down barriers, follow our social media pages and learn about resilient women like Jennifer.
4. Take the time to intentionally listen and support
“Be present and accepting — sometimes just listen and sometimes action is needed. If you’re ever confused, just ask “what can I do for you?” You’ll either get more venting or directions to take action or a side-ways answer.” – Jannise, Resource Development
Sometimes, all someone needs in a tough moment is a listening ear. You can be that person for the women in your life. When women in recovery enter our recovery programs, our staff take the time to listen to their past hurts and traumas and offer one-on-one counselling.
Found Boutique in New Westminster, our new social enterprise.
5. Surprise your friend, girlfriend, mom, daughter, coworker or more with a cute gift
Don’t you love getting a nice gift that shows how much someone knows and cares about you? It’s such a great feeling. So surprise your friend, girlfriend, mom, daughter, coworker with a thoughtful gift that shows them how loved they are.
A great spot to find that present? Found Boutique in New Westminster. When you shop at Found, you support local businesses and help end homelessness with every purchase. From home decor, clothing, accessories and more, there’s sure to be a gift for the women in your life.
A family who received a hamper from UGM.
6. Help lift women out of homelessness, poverty and addiction by donating to a local organization
You can make a positive impact on the women in your community by donating to organizations like UGM that uplift women. Here at UGM, we are dedicated to helping women overcome homelessness, poverty and addiction. We believe in the value of women and know that empowering women leads to stronger, healthier communities. So we offer services for women and families that address the struggles and barriers women face, and help them move forward.
We’re so excited to be able to help even more women when our new Women and Families centre opens in late 2021. It will build deep roots of stability and hope for the lives of women, children and families in our community, making a big impact on generations to come.
“Without UGM, I probably wouldn’t be able to get the groceries I need. UGM is putting forth a lot to make sure that families are going to make it through. Knowing I can come here makes me feel safe. They’ve definitely come through for a lot of people.” – Sabrina, UGM Women & Families Mom
We hope these ideas help you cherish and celebrate the women you know this International Women’s Day! Take time to shower them with love and support, because they so deserve it. Happy International Women’s Day!
Sign up below to receive more inspiration and to support women as UGM continues to transform lives in women every day.
