Focus For Ethnic Women
Focus For Ethnic Women (FEW) is a nonprofit organization based in Waterloo, Ontario, dedicated to empowering immigrant and visible minority women through culturally sensitive programs and services. Registered under the business number 131611337RR0001, FEW provides skill-building, employment support, and community integration initiatives to foster self-reliance and socio-economic advancement.

Mission and Values

FEW's mission centers on creating a nurturing environment that promotes self-esteem, social networks, and employment readiness[2]. Its vision emphasizes becoming a "best-in-class agency" for supporting women and their families in achieving economic prosperity[2]. Core values include inclusivity, respect for cultural diversity, and lifelong learning opportunities, with a commitment to serving women of all backgrounds, including those with disabilities[2][4].

Programs and Services

FEW offers structured programs addressing education, employment, health, and leadership:

• Digital Skills for Employment: Enhances job readiness through computer training and career counseling[1][4].
• Focus on Healthy Living: An 8-week wellness program prioritizing mental and physical health[1].
• Focus on Leadership: Trains racialized women in leadership skills[1].
• Focus on Girls in Sport: Teaches young girls Canadian sports rules and teamwork[1].
• New Beginnings: Assists newcomers in cultural integration and English language practice[1][3].
  Additional services include resume workshops, interview preparation, industrial sewing training, and self-employment coaching[3][4].

Community Impact

FEW addresses systemic barriers by providing free or low-cost access to skill development and social services[3][4]. Its emphasis on peer support and lifelong learning aligns with research highlighting immigrant women’s reliance on community networks for successful settlement[5]. The organization operates with a focus on inclusivity, ensuring accessibility for marginalized groups[2][4].

Structure and Operations

Programs are delivered through workshops, drop-in groups, and tailored training sessions[1][3]. While some initiatives require pre-registration, most services remain open-access to accommodate diverse needs[3][4]. FEW collaborates with local partners to expand outreach and support women’s economic independence[1][2].

[1] https://few.on.ca [2] https://few.on.ca/our-mission/ [3] https://211ontario.ca/service/73445198/focus-for-ethnic-women-focus-for-ethnic-women/ [4] https://services.settlement.org/en/waterloo/finding-a-job/focus-for-ethnic-women/ [5] http://www.waterlooregion.org/women-building-community