Three Pillars to Success
For over 35 years, Women’s Employment Network has been empowering women in Kansas City to dream, to aspire, to become their true selves. Through training, education, networking, and support women are able to grow in their careers and in their lives. One of our many outlets for growth is the Three Pillars to Success program. Three Pillars to Success is WEN’s holistic approach to personal and professional well being. We offer a space to thrive while diving into self reflection, goal exploration, and providing guidance at no cost to our clients.
What is the Three Pillars to Success program?
Three Pillars to Success epitomizes WEN's commitment to empowering women on their journey towards self-discovery and success. This comprehensive program offers a safe and supportive environment where participants can embark on a transformative journey encompassing self-reflection, goal setting, and personalized guidance. With a focus on addressing the unique needs and aspirations of each individual, Three Pillars serves as a cornerstone for the personal and professional development of women.
How It Started
Three Pillars to Success was born from the evolution of the needs of our clients and the vision and determination of individuals like Lynnette Williams, Vice President of Programming and Services at WEN. Recognizing the evolving needs of WEN’s clients and the community at large, Lynnette and her team embarked on a journey to revitalize and refine WEN's approach to empowerment.
"We really honed in on asking directly: Why are you here? What do you want? What do you need? And what do you aspire to? and then building the three weeks around the needs of the women that are in that particular class while still hitting on: confidence, resume, interviewing," reflects Lynnette, highlighting the program's emphasis on personalized support and tailored guidance. It’s this approach that allowed the program’s philosophy to take shape and has set the stage for a transformative journey towards empowerment.
How It’s Going
Recently, WEN has welcomed new players, ensuring that women from all walks of life have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. WEN knows that women may have unique issues that can’t be shared with their community so Three Pillars offers a safe place where they can share among themselves. They can also meet one on one with staff to not only connect to resources but to be heard.
Clients Services Specialist, Reshida Roné’s ability to engage diverse personalities and encourage them to reach their full potential really adds to the uniqueness of the Three Pillars to Success program. Not only is it important for women to have the space and designated time to set a game plan towards success, it’s important to know what they already have and what they need to make that happen. ”All of the women who come through our programs have such rich life experiences! There are so many opportunities to learn, grow and develop rich long lasting relationships that can continue even as you transition into the next part of your life's journey,” says Roné.
In addition to identifying opportunities, it is important to ensure that you are financially prepared for that next step. This is where Financial Coach, Kristina Holloman, comes in. With meticulous attention to detail and thoughtful nature, Kristina is able to empower women in their finances. “The best part about Three Pillars is that it can make a difference in a woman’s life no matter where they are in their journey. We offer support when women need it most,” says Holloman.
Clients Services Specialist, Reshia Roné (LMSW) and Financial Coach - Employment Specialist, Kristina Holloman
Beyond the structured three weeks of Three Pillars to Success lies a wealth of opportunities and benefits for clients such as Job Club. Led by Director of Employment and Client Services, Tonia Bomar, Job Club is an extension of the Three Pillars program. The purpose of Job Club is to provide continued community support and resources. With a focus on career advancement and networking opportunities women are able to achieve their employment goals.
“Adding the structure of the Job Club extends that community time and what we've learned from having the five week program is if you can keep people together, more than likely, they will have built their own community outside of the group. They’ll stay connected to WEN longer.” says Lynnette Williams.
The Future of WEN
February 2024 Three Pillars to Success Graduates
As we look ahead to the future of WEN and the Three Pillars to Success program, one thing remains abundantly clear: the journey towards economic independence and self-discovery is ongoing. Whether you're a prospective participant seeking guidance or a supporter eager to make a difference, there are countless ways to get involved and support WEN's mission.
We invite you to join us on this transformative journey, whether by enrolling in Three Pillars to Success, volunteering your time and expertise, or making a donation to support our programs. Together, we can continue to empower women, transform lives, and build a brighter future for all.
Are you ready to take the next step towards empowerment? Contact us today to learn more about Three Pillars to Success and how you can make a difference in the lives of women in our community.