Empowering Women Through Education, Economic Growth, and Social Change
The Women’s Intercultural Center utilizes a programming structure that interweaves leadership development within a three (3) pronged programming approach: Education & Personal Development, Economic Self-Sufficiency, and Consciousness-Raising for Change. Additionally, the Center works with local, state, regional, and national organizations and agencies to provide special services, training, and workshops that help meet the individual needs of our participants and the needs of the communities of Southern NM and West TX.
Alternative Education & Personal Development Programming
Mission
We provide accessible, non-traditional learning environments for women who have limited access to education, had challenging experiences with formal schooling, or faced life obstacles preventing full participation in society or the workforce.
Program Overview
Our approach integrates holistic learning and principles of Popular Education for social change, inspired by Brazilian educator Paulo Freire. Each semester (Spring, Summer, Fall), we provide courses tailored to community needs and interests. Diverse Special Workshops covering a variety of topics are also provided.
CONSCIOUSNESS-RAISING FOR CHANGE
Mission
We empower women to seek truth, organize for action, and create lasting change in their communities.
Program Overview
This program provides tools for women to analyze and address issues. By fostering critical thinking and activism, women gain the skills to advocate for themselves and their communities. Our workshops, forums, guest speakers, and cultural events address local, state, and national issues.
Economic Self-Sufficiency (ESS)
Mission
We encourage women’s entrepreneurial spirit by fostering opportunities for financial independence through knowledge exchange, skill-building, and business creation.
Program Overview
Women learn to market their talents, build financial skills, and explore consulting, micro-enterprise, and small business development.
We assist participants in selling and marketing handcrafted products, supporting economic empowerment through real-world opportunities.
Meeting the Needs of Southern NM & West TX
We adapt our programs based on community needs, serving as an incubator for new initiatives that are later transferred to other entities for long-term management. Current services include:
Emergency Food Pantry - Ensuring no one goes hungry, we collect and distribute canned food donations to individuals and families. Open Monday – Wednesday, 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM. Valid photo ID with an address required.
Free Little Library - Available 24/7, offering books, DVDs, CDs, food, holiday items, and more outside our front entrance.
Personal Assistance - We provide individual support based on unique needs, ensuring community members receive the help they need.