“One woman can change many things—many women can change everything.”
These words which guide the organization Women for Women International (WfWI) have become a mantra for Lauren DiSilvio who has been with WfWI since 2017 and their Chief of Staff since 2020. WfWI is focused on socially and economically supporting the poorest and most vulnerable women in countries affected by war and conflict with programs in Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Afghanistan, Iraq, and other countries. It is based on a philosophy of entrepreneurship and local change agents.
The pandemic had a huge impact on WfWI’s work but also has made Lauren much more aware of the vulnerabilities and inequities domestically and in our own community. Lauren noted that having a baby ten months ago has changed her perspective as well. “I want to work to strengthen the DC community, to help know that my child and all others will have a positive community in which to grow.” Her work on the Hillary Clinton campaign instilled a regard for what community organizing can accomplish.
When Amy Peck Abraham, “a great networker,” reached out to tell Lauren about IMPACT 100DC she immediately saw it as complementary to her work at WfWI. Lauren is excited about being involved in the grant process and has a passion for Education projects. She is so pleased to be part of a group that builds awareness…awareness of local needs, awareness of community-based organizations effectively dealing with them, and awareness of the power of women acting together philanthropically to generate change. To Impact100 DC, Lauren brings her skills in marketing, communications, Board relations and strategic planning. More than her hard skills, she brings optimism and firm belief that “Every woman has the power to transform her world. When women work together we have the power to create a better world for all of us.”
When asked what she did for fun, Lauren laughed and said with a job and a darling, active ten month old there was little time for other “fun.” But, along with her love of cooking and reading and her dream of traveling once again, Lauren has found time to be involved at Impact100 DC and be enthusiastic about it.
Membership profile by Impact100 DC member Joan DePontet