Why Women’s First Network?

In fields like healthcare, public safety, social work, and disaster response, women face enormous pressures every day, often carrying the emotional and physical weight of others' trauma. Whether providing frontline care in hospitals or supporting victims as advocates, many women find themselves in roles where they encounter primary or secondary trauma regularly. Yet, in too many cases, the support these women need for their own well-being is either inaccessible, insufficient, or stigmatized.

Women’s First Network (WFN) exists to change that. Our mission is simple but powerful: to offer women in trauma-related roles the support, community, and resources they deserve to thrive in their careers—without compromising their own mental and emotional health.

The Reality of Trauma in Women’s Work

The numbers speak for themselves. Studies show that women in fields like healthcare, mental health, public safety, and social work experience significantly higher rates of burnout, compassion fatigue, and mental health challenges than their counterparts in other professions. This is particularly true for women, who often navigate these demanding roles while balancing other responsibilities outside of work.

In many cases, women in trauma-focused fields are dealing with:

• Primary Trauma: Direct exposure to distressing events or situations as part of their work, such as emergency responders witnessing violence or nurses dealing with critically ill patients.

• Secondary Trauma: Emotional impact from exposure to others' traumatic experiences, often affecting social workers, counselors, and advocates who work closely with trauma survivors.

Despite the high incidence of trauma in these roles, many women feel unable to ask for the support they need. Whether due to stigma, lack of resources, or fear of professional repercussions, the women on the front lines often find themselves without a safe space to process their experiences.

Why WFN Is Different

At WFN, we believe that women in trauma-heavy roles deserve tailored, trauma-informed support that acknowledges the unique challenges of their work. Our programs are designed to offer not only professional development but also personal support to address the mental and emotional toll of their roles.

Here’s what sets WFN apart:

1. Trauma-Informed Coaching
   Our programs, like the upcoming Women’s First Network Accelerator, are rooted in trauma-informed practices, meaning we prioritize empathy, safety, and understanding in all that we do. We provide participants with practical strategies to manage stress, build resilience, and navigate the pressures of trauma-heavy roles with confidence.

2. Community and Connection
   Women in trauma-related fields often feel isolated, especially when they can’t share the details of their experiences with friends or family. WFN offers a supportive community of like-minded women who understand the demands of trauma work. Participants find a safe space to connect, share, and support one another, building relationships that extend well beyond the program.

3. Accessible, Remote Programs
   We recognize that many women in these fields have unpredictable schedules and may lack access to in-person resources. That’s why we offer flexible, fully remote programs that fit into their lives. With live sessions, self-paced materials, and ongoing support, WFN ensures that location and scheduling don’t become barriers to accessing quality support.

4. Professional Growth with Personal Well-Being
   At WFN, we don’t just focus on career skills; we aim to empower women holistically. Our approach integrates professional development with personal growth, helping women build the confidence to excel in their roles while also making self-care a priority. From boundary-setting and stress management to career advancement and leadership, our programs cover all facets of a woman’s journey in a trauma-focused field.

Why Your Support Matters

We are committed to making WFN’s programs accessible to as many women as possible. Yet, providing high-quality, trauma-informed coaching and community resources requires funding and support. By donating to WFN or sponsoring a participant, you are directly impacting the lives of women who work tirelessly to support our communities.

Your contribution helps us:

• Offer scholarships for women who may not otherwise have access to our programs.

• Expand our resources and reach more women across the country.

• Create new programs and initiatives that address the evolving needs of women in trauma-related fields.

Please donate to help us support Women’s First Network.

Join Us in Supporting These Women

Women in trauma-heavy roles are the quiet heroes of our communities, shouldering the burdens of those they serve while often going without the support they need themselves. Through the Women’s First Network, we’re working to change that narrative. By providing these women with a space to grow, connect, and heal, we are not only supporting their well-being but also empowering them to continue making a difference in the lives of others.

If you or someone you know could benefit from WFN’s programs, we invite you to explore our offerings. And if you’re passionate about helping these women thrive, consider joining us as a donor or sponsor.

Together, we can build a future where women in trauma-related roles feel supported, valued, and empowered to excel in their careers and personal lives.

Explore the Women’s First Network. Support the Women Who Support Us All.