Empowering Women: The Mission of Days for Girls Australia and How You Can Get Involved
Hello, wonderful readers!
My book Not Just Your Period, Chapter 12 discusses some of the incredibly dedicated NFP organisations around the world doing fabulous work in the period poverty space. These organisations provide on-the-ground support with product distribution, pathways of education, advocacy through policy and media, and contribute to menstrual health awareness across communities, raising the value and visibility of all women.
Here, I shine a light on one of these organisations, that is making a significant impact on menstrual health and hygiene education: Days for Girls Australia. This organisation is part of a global movement dedicated to providing sustainable menstrual health solutions and education to girls and women in need. Let’s delve into their mission and explore the various ways you can get involved and support this vital cause.
The Mission of Days for Girls Australia
Days for Girls Australia is committed to creating a world where every girl and woman has access to quality menstrual health management and education. This mission is rooted in the belief that menstruation should never be a barrier to education, opportunity, or dignity. By providing reusable menstrual kits, health education, and advocacy, Days for Girls Australia empowers women and girls to thrive.
Why Menstrual Health Matters
You already know this! Access to menstrual products and education is essential for the well-being and empowerment of women and girls. Without proper menstrual care, many girls are forced to miss school, which can have a long-term impact on their education and future opportunities. Additionally, the stigma and taboos surrounding menstruation can lead to shame, isolation, and health issues. By addressing these challenges, Days for Girls Australia is helping to break down barriers and promote gender equality.
Ways to Get Involved
Would you? Could you? There are many ways to support Days for Girls Australia, such as volunteering, donating, or raising awareness. Here are some impactful ways you can make a difference:
Volunteer Your Time and Skills
Volunteering is a fantastic way to contribute to the mission of Days for Girls Australia, empower yourself through taking action, and contribute to increasing awareness around you by sharing what your do! There are many different ways to get involved and opportunities to contribute, including:
- Sewing and Assembling Kits: If you enjoy sewing, you can help create reusable menstrual kits. These kits include washable pads, soap, underwear, and other essential items. No sewing experience? No problem! There are plenty of non-sewing tasks like cutting fabric or packing kits. And others will teach as you go. You’ll find these DfG ‘chapters’ all over Australia, where you can join a group and sew together, also a beautiful way to meet like minded people and contribute in a supportive environment.
- Education and Advocacy: Volunteers can participate in or lead educational workshops to spread awareness about menstrual health and hygiene. This can be in schools, community centres, or even online.
- Donate to Support the Cause: Financial contributions are crucial for sustaining the work of Days for Girls Australia. Donations help fund the materials needed for menstrual kits, educational programs, and distribution efforts. You can make a one-time donation or become a monthly donor to provide ongoing support.
- Host a Fundraising Event: Organising a fundraising event is a powerful way to raise both funds and awareness for Days for Girls Australia. Consider hosting:
- Community Workshops: Teach others about the importance of menstrual health and how they can get involved.
- Charity Runs or Walks: Organize a sponsored run or walk to raise money and bring the community together for a good cause.
- Online Campaigns: Use social media platforms to create and promote online fundraising campaigns. Encourage your friends and family to donate and share the cause.
Raise Awareness
Spreading the word about Days for Girls Australia and their mission is vital. Can you help?
- Sharing on Social Media: This one’s easy! Use your social media platforms to share information about the organisation and their work. Use hashtags like #DaysForGirlsAustralia and #MenstrualEquity to reach a broader audience.
- Community Presentations: Offer to speak at local schools, community groups, or workplaces about menstrual health and the work of Days for Girls Australia.
- Blogging and Writing: If you enjoy writing, consider blogging about menstrual health issues and the efforts of Days for Girls Australia. Reach out to local newspapers or magazines to publish articles on the topic.
- Partner with Local Businesses and Organisations: Building partnerships with local businesses, schools, and other organizations can amplify the impact of Days for Girls Australia. Encourage businesses to sponsor events, donate materials, or provide financial support. Schools and community groups can host educational workshops and fundraising activities.
Join the Movement
By getting involved with Days for Girls Australia, you are joining a global movement dedicated to breaking the silence around menstruation and ensuring that every girl and woman has the opportunity to manage their period with dignity.
Together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of many and promote menstrual equity for all.
Either through the Australian Days for Girls website or the Facebook page, ask how you can make contact with a ‘local chapter’ in your area, or ask for a contact for the area of volunteering/contributing that speaks to you the most. Jump on in!
Also, check out the International Days for Girls website and the Facebook page, and the wonderful work being done around the world, in advocacy, education, and awareness; improving menstrual health and providing life-changing products enabling participation in work and school and inclusivity in every-day activities. Education for boys and men is also taking place across the globe through the Days for Girls work, it is important for girls and women to be understood (learning about the menstrual cycle is for ALL genders), respected and have equity.
“Days for Girls works to eliminate the stigma and limitations associated with menstruation so that women and girls have improved health, education and livelihoods. To date, we have reached over 3 million women and girls with our life-changing menstrual health solutions.”
Thank you for taking the time to learn about Days for Girls Australia and the various ways you can jump in; contributing to positive change for girls and women. Let’s work together to create a world where menstruation is no longer a barrier but a stepping stone to empowerment and equality.
With gratitude
Jodie
