Women-Led Nonprofits’ Contributions to Hattiesburg

Nonprofits are the backbone of communities, providing essential services, advocacy, and support where government and business may fall short. Across the U.S., women play a crucial role in leading and sustaining these organizations. Here in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, women are making a powerful impact through nonprofit work, strengthening our community in countless ways.

Susan Broadbridge/Hattiesburg American

The Numbers Speak:

• Over $5 million in grant funding is secured annually by women-led nonprofits in Hattiesburg to support community initiatives.

• More than 50% of local nonprofit leaders are women, highlighting their central role in community development.

• Tens of thousands of volunteer hours are coordinated each year by these organizations, driving community engagement.

• Hundreds of families receive emergency financial assistance through women-led nonprofits focused on housing and utility relief.

Challenges Women Face in Nonprofit Leadership

Despite their vital role, women in nonprofit leadership face several obstacles, including:

1. Pay Disparities – Studies show that female nonprofit executives earn 8% to 20% less than their male counterparts.

2. Funding Barriers – Women-led organizations often receive less grant funding than those led by men, making sustainability a challenge.

3. Work-Life Balance – The nonprofit sector demands long hours, which can be difficult to manage, especially for women balancing caregiving responsibilities.

4. Lack of Representation in Large-Scale Leadership – While women dominate small and mid-sized nonprofits, leadership of multi-million-dollar organizations remains primarily led by men.

This blog will be dedicated to telling the stories of women leading change in the nonprofit sector here in Hattiesburg. We invite you to follow along as we explore their contributions, struggles, and victories.

Are you a woman working in a nonprofit in Hattiesburg? We'd love to hear your story! Contact us to be featured in an upcoming post.

Stay tuned for more spotlights and insights on how women are shaping the future of our city through nonprofit work.