February 3, 2023
American Baptist Women's Ministries (ABWM) has been awarded the One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) Development Grant from American Baptist Home Mission Societies (ABHMS) to develop leadership opportunities for women and girls. The grant will support a new ministry project called "Be Strong, Be Courageous: Leadership Training for Women and Girls," which will provide opportunities to study God's word and develop leadership acumen.
Executive Director Rev. Dr. Gina C. Jacobs-Stain says, "We deeply desire to curate a safe and affirming space and to be a resource that facilitates positive self–image and a joyful sisterhood. Therefore, we are thrilled to expand our reach and help women, especially girls, develop the gifts God has given to them. Thank you to the American Baptist Home Mission Societies for your support! “
"American Baptist Women's Ministries is doing GREAT THINGS!" says Rev. Dr. Christine A. Smith,
National President, American Baptist Women's Ministries. "Guided by the leadership of our Executive Director, the Rev. Dr. Gina Jacobs-Strain, ABWM continues to provide many opportunities for women and girls to enhance and build upon their leadership skills. We give God high praise for these marvelous opportunities for women and girls, made available through American Baptist Women's Ministries!"
ABWM is committed to using this grant to positively impact the lives of AB women and girls in our 33 regions in the U.S., including Puerto Rico. ABWM plans to use the funds to develop "Be Strong, Be Courageous: Leadership Training for Women and Girls," which will include a webinars series as well as workshops presented by leadership development experts at the 2024 National Women and Girls Conference at Roanoke College, in Roanoke, VA. The project is designed to help women and girls expand their biblical knowledge and understanding of leadership. Participants will build confidence and curiosity as they delve into equity, advocacy, self-esteem, team building, mentor/mentee relationships, and leadership opportunities at all levels. The Women and Girls Conference will provide leadership development workshops, Bible studies, tools such as Enneagram, fellowship, worship, and STEAM workshops.
ABWM is a Christ-centered ministry with a committed mission to encourage and empower women and girls to serve God. Our vision is for all women and girls to be empowered with access to resources necessary for success. In recent years, there has been an increased focus on the need for leadership development for women and girls. In 2021, only 20% of CEO positions were held by women, and only 8.2% of Fortune 500 companies are led by women. ABWM seeks to change the statistics by providing opportunities in the development and empowerment of women and girls in leadership positions.
American Baptist Women's Ministries (ABWM) is a diverse community of American Baptist women and girls serving in ministry in Christ's name in the US, including Puerto Rico. With local, area, region/state, and national levels of ministry, American Baptist Women's Ministries creates and sustains communities of passionately faithful, mission-minded women and girls engaged in worship, leadership, service, and friendship. Our ministries include domestic violence and sex trafficking prevention and education, building beloved community, advocacy, and developing leaders. To learn more about American Baptist Women's Ministries, visit www.abwomensministries.org.
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For more information, contact Rev. Dr. Gina Jacobs-Strain,
info@abwomensministries.org or call our office at (610) 768-2288.