The Sue Wieland Embracing Possibility Award is a special $20,000 grant given annually to one of the Atlanta Women’s Foundation’s grantee partner organizations. Every year, AWF selects an organization that demonstrates an outstanding ability to make a significant impact in the lives of women and girls through their ongoing work. The organization’s success is showcased by using an example of one individual the organization sees as a shining example of their program.

The 2024 Sue Wieland Embracing Possibility Award winner is H.O.PE., Inc., and their shining example is Shanquinita “Shan” Parham.

H.O.P.E., Inc. is a grantee of AWF’s Breaking Barriers, Building Women: Economic Empowerment Program.

H.O.P.E.’s mission is to empower, encourage, and equip low-income single parents to obtain a college degree, develop essential life skills, and become self-sufficient. H.O.P.E.’s work stabilizes households, provides resources and support, and promotes the long-term financial self-sufficiency of those served. Investments in college completion programs for single mothers reap significant economic benefits by decreasing demand for public assistance programs while increasing financial mobility in previously underserved communities. These positive outcomes impact not only program participants but also their children and grandchildren, breaking cycles of poverty.

Make a gift this holiday season to help AWF fund more programs like H.O.P.E., Inc.

Shan’s Story
Seeking a way to support herself and her two children while pursuing a college degree, Shan found H.O.P.E., Inc. online and applied for assistance. At the time, Shan’s full-time job did not offer enough income to rent an apartment for herself and her children. H.O.P.E. helped Shan find an apartment, provided food and childcare assistance, and provided financial counseling and training, in addition to helping Shan create a plan to advance in her job and complete her college degree.

When financial needs arose for her children’s after-school programs or her own transportation to work, H.O.P.E., Inc. was able to fill the gaps, allowing Shan to stay committed to her plan goals and continue her studies. With the help of H.O.P.E., Inc., Shan is a first-generation college attendee and graduate, having completed her coursework at American Intercontinental University on July 2, 2024. Her graduation ceremony was held on October 26, 2024.

Make a gift this holiday season to help more women like Shan!

To learn more about the impactful work of H.O.P.E. Inc., watch the video below: