According to the report from the Wrocław University entitled “Wrocław Social Diagnosis 2017,” 46% of residents of Wrocław are civically engaged. Based on our research, we have concluded that 90% of those civically active are women. Simultaneously, a British think tank, the Institute for Fiscal Studies found that women are about one third more endangered by the negative effects of the Covid-19 pandemic than men. Our goal was to support, strengthen, show appreciation, and integrate a group of women from Brochów (one of Wrocaław’s boroughs), where our organization is located. We supported both women who are civically active and at the risk of burning out, overburdened with the number of duties brought about by the pandemic, as well as those who were not engaged until now.
We have conducted a series of meetings for the group and created a social media page for them to regularly communicate and share their experiences and problems. The participants have gained and developed knowledge and skills in public speaking, intuitive dancing, assertive communication and protecting personal boundaries, as well as legal education pertaining to labor law, family law, and personal bankruptcy. We have planned and implemented two initiatives for the residents of Brochów. From among a dozen or so ideas we have picked a photo shoot promoting the acceptance of one’s body, and a project related to plants used in healthcare. Based on the two initiatives we have organized an event entitled “The Power of Women.” It was accompanied by an exhibition and workshops on aromatherapy, reflection therapy, and a lecture on female archetypes in culture. There was also time for informal conversations and sharing of experiences.
The participants in the project have created a community of mutual support. As part of the project evaluation, the most common answer to the question about the most valuable aspects of the initiative was the increase in one’s self-esteem and acceptance, as well as meeting many great women.