Sisters Empowering Sisters

What is Sisters Empowering Sisters?

Sisters Empowering Sisters (SES), a program of Girl's Best Friend Foundation (GBF), brings the voices of girls and young women to GBF. Established in 1997, SES consists of a diverse group of young women ages 14-18 from Chicago and surrounding suburban communities. SES is girl directed and girl driven, its participants take on the role of grantmaker to programs developed and run by girls. SES distributes up to $40,000 annually through its grantmaking.


Who are Sisters Empowering Sisters?

Members are diverse geographically, ethnically, and economically. They demonstrate an interest in making positive change with and for girls, an ability to listen and communicate with others, and a willingness to work with other young women and adults. Each year up to 15 young women are recruited to participate in the program.


What do Sisters Empowering Sisters members do?

Specifically, Sisters Empowering Sisters members:

Participate in activities and discussions about grantmaking, social justice, and sisterhood.


Evaluate grant applications, go on site visits, and make important decisions about granting money to projects developed by girls for girls ages 8-18.


Meet and share information with GBF board, staff, and other groups of young women in the Chicago area and across the country.

For information on how to apply for an SES grant click here.

For information on becoming an SES member click here.