Chapter 21: She’S The First UW–Madison: Supporting Community-based Models Through Campus Engagement

She’s the First UW–Madison is the campus chapter of the international nonprofit organization She’s the First (STF). STF raises money for girls in low-income countries who will be the first in their families to graduate from secondary school. These funds are distributed to community-based, women-led partner organizations in 11 different countries. STF’s holistic “communities know best” approach offers a sustainable model of international cooperation that promotes enduring, community-based progress. STF UW–Madison’s primary goal is to fundraise h on- and off-campus events throughout the year. The chapter also engages in community awareness projects, discusses global issues at biweekly member meetings, and works with local Madison nonprofit organizations to support like-minded missions. Members learn skills of community organizing, perspective taking, and creative collaboration that benefit them far beyond their time with the organization. STF UW-Madison embodies the Wisconsin Idea by offering student members the opportunity to utilize their formal education in the international nonprofit setting and encouraging them to apply what they learn in STF to the way they interact with the ever-globalizing world. This chapter explores how STF UW–Madison uses local fundraising efforts and awareness events to promote sustainable, community-based initiatives for gender equality in education worldwide.