BWTEotR is honored to be selected for Spur Local’s 2026 cohort, recognizing our work to support health, opportunity, and community voice for Black women in Wards 7 and 8.
Our Community, Our Strength
At Black Women Thriving East of the River, we see the struggles, the resilience, and the boundless spirit of Black women in Wards 7 & 8. Our initiatives meet them where they are, providing comprehensive workforce development and access to cancer care that tackle the systemic barriers Black women face daily. Empathy and empowerment are woven into every approach and initiative, ensuring every woman in our community has the opportunity to not just survive, but thrive. Together, we can uplift our community and create lasting change.
“We’re taking care of everybody else around us and putting all our needs last to make sure everybody else is taken care of. Where does the funding come for us to be able to pursue different types of careers and different types of opportunities?”
– Workforce Development Focus Group Participant
What Makes Us Unique
In Wards 7 and 8 of Washington D.C., systemic racism and neglect have created stark disparities in health and economic outcomes. Black women here are facing higher rates of cancer, unemployment, and financial instability. Despite these challenges, the strength and resilience of our community shines through. BWTEotR exists to confront these injustices head-on. We are committed to breaking down the barriers that have held these communities back through strategic partnerships and community-driven interventions to provide the support and resources necessary for success.
Vision and Mission
We envision a future where Black women in Wards 7 & 8 are empowered to achieve optimal health and economic success, free from the systemic barriers that have historically hindered their progress.
Through our Strategic Initiatives and Interventions, we work hand-in-hand with local leaders and residents to reduce cancer mortality and create health-related career opportunities for Black women in Wards 7 & 8 by transforming the culture of racially unjust and inequitable systems. Together, we can build a future where the hard work and resilience of these women leads to a thriving city with a brighter future.
Our Areas of Focus
Workforce Development
Equipping Black women with training and support to thrive in the workplace, while promoting anti-racism and DEI practices.
Patient Navigation
Reducing mortality rates of Black women through better cancer care accessibility and patient advocacy.
Healthcare Scholarship Program
Careers in the health field frequently require advanced training, licensing or certification, making it a field with a high barrier to entry.
Our Current Funders
Donate Now
Your support can make a significant impact in the lives of Black women in Wards 7 & 8. By donating to Black Women Thriving East of the River, you help us fund essential programs in workforce development and cancer care. Whether you choose to make a one-time donation, become a monthly supporter, or sponsor one of our events, every contribution brings us closer to a future where every woman can thrive.
