EXETER AREA
WOMENADE

Frequently asked questions

Who is eligible to receive the Opportunity Fund?
Any member of the community who lives in Brentwood, East Kingston, Exeter, Kensington, Newfields or Stratham that is in need of financial assistance in order to capitalize on an opportunity that will change the course of the recipient's life in a drastic way. 

What types of needs will the Opportunity Fund assist with?
The Opportunity Fund is intended to open doors that would otherwise be inaccessible to the recipient. We envision the fund to make a life-changing difference in an are such as education, training programs, housing, auto, healthcare,  or other situations that will unlock the future potential of the recipient. Click here to see example stories of people using the benefits of the Opportunity Fund to improve their futures.

How often is the Opportunity Fund awarded?
The Opportunity Fund is awarded once a year in February.

What is the timeline for the Opportunity Fund?
The application deadline for the Opportunity Fund is November 30th each year. The board reviews the applications and a community member is awarded the scholarship in February.

What is the maximum amount given out per year?
The award is free from the constraints of the dollar limit for Womenade's traditional assistance, which caps out at $1,500 and instead can reach up to $10,000 for a single need.

I have received help from Womenade in the last 12 months. Am I still eligible for the Opportunity Fund?
Yes, even if you have received help from Womenade in the last 12 months, you are still eligible for the Opportunity Fund. This fund is separate from our normal requests.

Can I apply for the Opportunity Fund for myself?
Unfortunately, you cannot apply for the Opportunity Fund alone. You need to have a community validator (school staff member, mental health professional, social worker, etc,) apply on your behalf to begin the process. Then, you will be asked to complete a full questionnaire, impact statement and potentially an interview.

How is the Opportunity Fund different from a regular Womenade request?
A regular Womenade request aims to bridge a gap to prevent a downward debt spiral. The Opportunity Fund looks to propel its recipient forward in a way that will significantly improve their future. A regular request has a limit of $1,500 per year per recipient. The Opportunity Fund is a one time award that is given out yearly with a limit of $10,000. 

How is the recipient chosen?
We have a smaller committee within our board that reads all of the applications. Final contenders will be presented to the full board and voted on. A decision will then be made and announced.

Will the award be anonymous?
No, the award will not be anonymous. The recipient and their story will be shared with our community to help spread the word about Womenade, the Opportunity Fund and how it can help our community. If necessary, we do not have to your your name, just your story.

Where does the money come from?
The Opportunity Fund is supported by donations made by local businesses, community members and grants.