Our Story
Building a future where every woman thrives
How It All Began
The Edvin Women Foundation was born from a deeply personal experience. In 2009, our founder Dr. Elena Ross witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of domestic violence on women in her community — women who had nowhere to turn, no resources, and no voice.
What started as a small support group meeting in a church basement has grown into a comprehensive organization serving thousands of women across the region. Dr. Ross believed that every woman deserves safety, dignity, and the opportunity to rebuild her life.
Today, we operate three shelters, run twelve programs, and have a network of over fifty dedicated volunteers and professionals. But our mission remains the same: to be the bridge between crisis and hope for every woman who walks through our doors.
We are more than a foundation — we are a family of survivors, advocates, and believers in the extraordinary strength of women.
What Drives Us
Our guiding principles for a better tomorrow
Our Vision
A world where every woman, regardless of her circumstances, has the safety, agency, and opportunity to build a fulfilling life for herself and her family. We envision communities where women are valued, protected, and empowered to lead.
Our Mission
To protect and empower vulnerable women — including girls, widows, single mothers, elderly women, and survivors of abuse — by providing safe shelter, legal advocacy, skills training, counseling, and educational opportunities that foster lasting independence.
Our Core Values
Compassion
Leading with empathy
Integrity
Transparent & accountable
Empowerment
Building independence
Inclusivity
Welcoming all women
Dignity
Respecting every story
Resilience
Celebrating strength
Our Journey
Milestones of impact and growth
Founded
Dr. Elena Ross establishes the Edvin Women Foundation with a small support group of 12 women.
First Shelter Opened
Our first safe house opens its doors, providing refuge for 30 women and children in the first year.
Skills Training Launch
Economic empowerment program begins, offering vocational training in tailoring, computing, and business management.
3,000 Women Served
A major milestone as we reach 3,000 women supported across all programs.
National Recognition
Awarded the National Women's Empowerment Prize and expanded to three regional offices.
Meet Our Team
Dedicated professionals committed to our mission
Dr. Elena Ross
Founder & Executive Director
A social worker with 20 years of experience, Dr. Ross has dedicated her career to women's rights and community development.
Sarah Johnson
Director of Programs
Former nonprofit consultant who oversees all foundation programs, ensuring quality and impact across every initiative.
Maria Rodriguez
Head of Legal Advocacy
A passionate attorney specializing in family law and women's rights, Maria has won over 500 cases for our beneficiaries.
Dr. Amara Osei
Clinical Psychologist
Specializing in trauma recovery, Dr. Osei leads our counseling programs and trains community health workers.
Jennifer Park
Fundraising Director
With a background in corporate partnerships, Jennifer has grown our funding by 300% in five years.
Our Partners & Recognition
National Women's Empowerment Prize 2024
Community Impact Award 2022
Best Nonprofit Leadership 2020
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