Women’s Economic Empowerment Program

YWCA Great Lakes Bay Region advocates for the advancement of local women and families by providing programs and services that promote economic self-sufficiency, enhanced stability, and strengthened community connections. Our Women's Economic Empowerment Program (WEEP) is focused on meeting these goals by offering the educational and supportive programming described below. 

Moving Ahead

Moving Ahead is a FREE, 10 hour (five session) workshop that   provides the tools women need to make important financial decisions and work toward lasting economic security. Each 2-hour class meets once per week to enhance our participants’ understanding of subjects like financial abuse, budgeting fundamentals, banking practices, credit basics, loans, saving strategies, and long-term financial security. Participants leave the course with a personalized budget plan and a small monetary reward for completing graduation requirements.

Next Sessions:

  • Tuesdays April 22- May 20, 2025 - 10:00am-12:00pm (virtual)

  • Wednesday June 11-July 9, 2025 - 1:00pm-3:00pm (virtual)

More Sessions for August through December will be announced in June 2025! Check back then or call our office for more information.

Pathways to Progress

Pathways to Progress is a FREE, 10 hour (five session) workshop series available to women interested in learning practical strategies to build financial success, community resources, planning skills, goal achievement know-how, overall stability, and best of all, confidence! In these weekly 2-hour classes our program meets women right where they are. Then together, we help them identify and create clear plans of action that empower our graduates to lean into the achievement of their dreams. Participants leave the course with a personalized Action Plan and a small monetary reward for completing graduation requirements.

Note: Prior “Getting Ahead” Graduates are not eligible for this program.

Next Session:

  • Wednesdays April 23 - May 21, 2025 - 1:00pm-3:00pm (virtual)

  • Tuesday June 10 - July 8, 2025 - 10:00am-12:00pm (virtual)

More Sessions for August through December will be announced in June 2025! Check back then or call our office for more information.

“The fact these classes are free and all you have to do is attend and put the work in is really a plus in so many ways. The instructors are great and are so willing to help in any areas they can and guide you wherever you’re trying to go. It's amazing how much I learned, way more than I ever thought.”

2024 Women’s Economic Empowerment Program Graduate

Staying Ahead

Staying Ahead: Your Ongoing Support System

Staying Ahead is a FREE community resource for graduates of Pathways to Progress and Moving Ahead, providing long-term support, guidance, and connections to help you stay on track.

We’re here to help you navigate challenges, access resources, refine your goals, and celebrate progress through group meetings, one-on-one support, workshops, and a quarterly resource guide.

Stay connected, stay inspired, and keep moving forward with a supportive community that’s here for you—every step of the way!