History

The Worldwide Organization for Women, (WOW) was originally organized as the Utah Alliance for Women. In 1987 a small group of women led by Nina Palmer, was concerned about the impact of state and national issues on women and families.  Soon, hundreds joined, eager for information and a forum for their opinions. The Utah Alliance for Women broadened their reach and members attended several international conferences on families.  There they found a larger mission: to speak for women on the international stage.

The Utah Alliance changed its name to the Worldwide Organization for Women (WOW) in 1997 and gained ECOSOC status as an NGO at the UN. These women introduced Dr. Richard G. Wilkins, Professor of Law at the J Reuben Clark School of Law, to the need for an informed voice which led to the formation of the World Family Policy Center.  Others from the Utah Alliance formed United Families International, with NGO status at the UN.

The goal of “connecting women and uniting their influence for good”, has brought women together from the United States to Nepal, from Switzerland to Africa.  At large conferences or small gatherings, women are enriched and inspired to make a difference on issues that affect women and families, through advocacy, education, and humanitarian activities.

Representation on UN committees in Geneva and New York is a notable aspect of WOW’s influence.  Of particular note are the 21 university interns who have received training through the Geneva office under the direction of Afton Beutler, WOW VP International Affairs.  WOW currently has educational programs with Brigham Young University, Weber State University and the University of Utah.  Humanitarian work has grown in many areas, most notably with a bridge completed in Nigeria in 2007 which continues to inspire members, and change lives.