By Susana Guzman Fermin | President / Project Leader
Foundation for Single Mothers and At-Risk Young Women (FUNCOMAS)
Reporting period: June–August 2025
1. Executive Summary
From June to August 2025, the project made significant progress in its mission to strengthen the socioeconomic capacities of single mothers and vulnerable young women in the Dominican Republic. Thanks to the support of our GlobalGiving donors, we expanded our training programs, improved our educational infrastructure, and strengthened participants’ chances of employment.
This quarter marked strong achievements in vocational training, job placement, psychosocial support, and partnership development, all focused on promoting economic and social empowerment.
2. Project Progress 2.1 Technical and Entrepreneurial Training
Between June and August, five training programs were delivered in high-demand areas.
Key results:
182 single mothers completed technical training programs in:
Nursing assistant
Commercial cooking and food handling
Beauty and aesthetics
Customer service
Basic entrepreneurship
91 mothers began supervised internships with partner businesses.
58 participants developed their first business plan.
The training strengthened technical skills, soft skills, leadership, financial literacy, and time-management abilities.
2.2 Job Placement and Entrepreneurship
The project expanded its network of employers and opportunities for economic advancement.
Quarter highlights:
37 single mothers secured formal employment.
12 family micro-businesses launched operations (mostly in gastronomy, beauty products, and services).
26 entrepreneurs received support to formalize their new businesses.
These achievements directly contribute to increased income and improved household stability.
2.3 Psychosocial Support and Personal Development
Recognizing that technical skills alone are not enough, we continued strengthening emotional well-being and personal resilience.
Results from June to August:
156 women received individualized psychosocial support.
Eight personal development workshops were held on topics such as self-esteem, assertive communication, stress management, and positive parenting.
94 mothers participated in peer-support groups.
These activities foster emotional security, autonomy, and stronger decision-making skills.
3. Institutional Strengthening and Partnerships
During this period, several strategic partnerships were consolidated.
Key advances:
Renewed training agreements with three technical education centers.
New internship partnerships with supermarkets, beauty salons, and community clinics.
Donations of educational materials and supplies from local businesses, reducing operating costs.
4. Use of Funds (June–August 2025)
(Values presented as percentages for GlobalGiving reporting. We may include exact figures if you prefer.)
Technical training: 48%
Materials, equipment, and transportation: 21%
Psychosocial support and workshops: 14%
Project management and monitoring: 10%
Entrepreneurship support (seed capital, advising, registration): 7%
Funds were used efficiently, prioritizing activities that directly contribute to social impact.
5. Stories of Impact
María, 24 – Beauty Program Graduate
“Thanks to this program, I completed my course and now have a stable job in a salon. I can support my children and even save. I feel proud of what I’ve achieved.”
Rosa, 31 – Entrepreneurship Program Graduate
“FUNCOMAS believed in me. My food business is starting to grow, and for the first time I feel in control of my future.”
6. Challenges This Quarter
Limited classroom space for new groups.
Increased demand for individualized psychological support.
Digital barriers affecting virtual follow-up with some participants.
We are already implementing strategies to address these challenges in the next quarter.
7. Next Steps (September–November 2025)
Launch two new cohorts of technical training.
Expand the entrepreneurship support program with micro-seed capital.
Introduce a digital monitoring and follow-up system.
Host an employment fair with partner companies.
8. Donor Appreciation
On behalf of FUNCOMAS and every single mother who has found new opportunities through this initiative, we extend our most sincere gratitude.
Your support is transforming lives, opening doors, and strengthening families throughout the Dominican Republic.
Thank you for continuing to walk this path with us.
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