Access & Resources

This month we discussed some of the challenges faced when trying to grow your career or business. As Allies we champion for inclusivity & equality but find one of the biggest road blocks is meeting the criteria for one of the most valuable resources: Funding.

Frequent attendee Cherryl Bird volunteered to help lead our discussion by sharing her knowledge & experiences. Cherryl is the publisher and executive editor of coremagazines.com, a digital publication that connects people around the world on local cultural issues that inspire meaningful change. Through the independently-owned publication, she seeks to highlight voices and viewpoints often missing from mainstream media. She built Core Magazines from its foundation as a creative outlet for her writing. Her stories have reached a high of 1,500 views per day and through syndication, each article has a viewing potential of over 80 million people per month. Thanks to her collaboration with CNW, a newswire service with a broad, global distribution network that feeds into broadcast, print and digital media outlets.

“Know what you don’t know.” There are actually SO many online & in-person places offering support & skill building at little or no cost to women and other minorities. These organizations understand the hurdles under represented groups face when it comes to funding & self development. The problem is, most of us don’t even know they exist - or where to look. Additionally, statistics have shown that unless a woman meets all - or almost all, of the criteria for a job or program they won’t pursue it. Quite often there are exceptions or modifications that can be made to ensure everyone has access to the resources they need.