History
The Worldwide Organization for Women, (WOW) was originally organized as the Utah Alliance for Women in 1987. This small group of women was concerned about the impact of the State of Utah issues and national issues of the United States of America on women and families. Soon, hundreds joined, eager for information and a forum for their opinions. The Utah Alliance for Women broadened their reach beyond international borders as members attended several international conferences on families. There, the members found a larger mission: to speak for, educate and help women on the international stage.
Thus, the Utah Alliance for Women changed the name to the Worldwide Organization for Women (WOW) in 1997, and gained special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) status as a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) at the United Nations. These women introduced Dr. Richard G. Wilkins, Professor of Law with the J Reuben Clark School of Law at Brigham Young University, to the need for an informed voice which led to the formation of the World Family Policy Center. Others from the former Utah Alliance for Women formed United Families International.
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 and small gatherings, people are now enriched and inspired to make a difference on issues that affect women and families through Advocacy, Education, and Humanitarian Activities.
Representation on United Nations (UN) committees in Geneva and New York City 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.
