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Ever wonder what true empowerment looks like in action? Look no further than Women of Wisdom Tri-Cities. Founded by Chaune Fitzgerald, this isn’t your typical community group, it’s a powerhouse of transformation tackling real-world inequities where they hurt most. Their secret? A holistic approach that nourishes every dimension of wellbeing, from environmental to financial, mental to social. Through strategic grant funding, they’re not just talking about change; they’re investing directly in our community’s future.
Imagine a place where families grow stronger, future business leaders emerge from unexpected places, and mentorship connections spark life-changing opportunities. That’s exactly what’s happening here. From teaching essential financial skills to preparing women for homeownership, Women of Wisdom creates the collaborative partnerships that form the bedrock of community transformation. When women join this movement, they don’t just overcome obstacles, they discover an untapped wellspring of power within themselves.
Women of Wisdom Tri-Cities (WOW) emerged in 2015 with a transformative vision: they wanted to create a space where women could fully realize their unique potential. Mrs. Fitzgerald says that over time, WOW’s vision expanded. “It eventually evolved into a group dedicated to education and empowerment, providing scholarships and financial assistance for women, children, and their families,” she explains.
Programs
WOW has also boldly pivoted toward the future through innovative electrification initiatives and EV infrastructure development, directly addressing our most pressing environmental challenges. This vital work connects the groundbreaking Clean Climate Act with the Heal Act, precisely when Eastern Washington faces escalating threats from environmental contamination. The urgency is undeniable: agricultural cleanup can’t wait. WOW’s strategic partnership with the Department of Energy demonstrates their commitment to climate action. This isn’t just about environmental justice; it’s about integrating prosperity with health for everyone.
This year, WOW will transform our community with 350 charging stations, 12 environmentally-conscious electric vehicles, and a critical ADA van serving those with disabilities. They’ve already taken decisive action, installing charging stations throughout Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco, deliberately prioritizing historically underserved, low-income neighborhoods.
WOW also recently announced the first phase of an ambitious vision to award microloans to empower local entrepreneurs — a $3 million investment rolling out this year — and a game changing $15 million commitment to electric vehicle infrastructure in Eastern Washington.
Every year, WOW brings health and nutrition to center stage through thoughtfully organized events. Beyond nutritional guidance, they serve as mentors to young people navigating the challenging transition from high school to higher education. Their signature fundraiser, the Mother, Daughter, and Friend Tea, beautifully embodies this mission. “Our health programs nurture the mental, physical, and spiritual wellness of BI-POC community members,” Mrs. Fitzgerald explains. “When people can concentrate better, manage stress, and maintain focus, everything changes.”
Student success is another priority. By joining forces with AACCES, WOW helps students craft compelling scholarship essays and complete applications. “We’re seeing a beautiful shift toward stronger self-esteem and personal value,” Mrs. Fitzgerald observes. From day one, WOW worked to connect young people with educational and vocational opportunities with remarkable wisdom, grace, and sophistication. Mrs. Fitzgerald says, “When it comes to finance and careers, I want to help them with assets, housing experts, debt, capital, and resume building.” Make no mistake, this organization is actively creating a world where women stand as influential, successful, and fully-equipped leaders in our community.
Community
WOW’s continued success is strengthened by powerful community collaborations with organizations like The Links Incorporated, the Alphas (Alpha Phi Alpha), the Juneteenth Committee, the Miss Juneteenth Pageant, the Tri-Cities Diversity & Inclusion Council (TCD&IC), and the NAACP. But that’s just the beginning! “We’ve sponsored Sozo with over $1.2 million for food and security, plus $5,000 to ETERNVL for their outreach programs,” Mrs. Fitzgerald says. WOW has also generously supported the UrbanPoetsSociety and the Isaac Butts Youth Empowerment group, as well.
With their EV Carshare program, they have partnered with Benton Franklin Transit, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), and the Washington State DOT. These remarkable contributions to the Tri-Cities, Yakima, and Walla Walla communities haven’t gone unnoticed. WOW has been honored with the prestigious CBC MLK Spirit Award in 2020, the NAACP Freedom Fund Award in 2024, and the Making a Difference Award in 2023.
Women of Wisdom Tri-Cities transforms lives by creating a powerful community where women don’t just survive, they thrive. By joining this remarkable sisterhood, you’ll gain the tools to harness your innate strength, pursue your boldest aspirations, and conquer any obstacle in your path. WOW’s programs empower women to take command of their journey, facilitate profound healing, and honor the extraordinary essence of womanhood.
The time to support WOW’s mission is now. This is your opportunity to become part of an enduring legacy of triumph and resilience in a community passionately dedicated to your empowerment and success. Isn’t it time you claimed your place among women who are changing their world?
About Women of Wisdom
Our Mission
Our Mission is to empower underserved communities through education, policy change, mentorship, and advocacy, while fostering equity and innovation.
Our Vision
Our Vision is to empower underrepresented individuals to thrive in an equitable, prosperous community by promoting holistic wellness — environmental, physical, mental, financial, and social — through access to education, mentorship, and supportive environments.
Anyla McDonald aspires to become a poet, short story writer, and essayist speaking about racism against Black people, current world problems, and hot topics. When she writes, she does it with purpose and passion. She feels destined to touch others with her words, and wants to be known as someone who takes a stand and impacts lives with her writing.
Anyla offers consulting services to Black student unions, student governments, school boards, superintendents, parents, and teachers facing social challenges within their institutions. She assists them in developing and implementing policies and activities aimed at preventing discrimination.
