Women's Contact Society
The Women's Contact Society is a Canadian nonprofit organization registered under Business Number 118875152RR0001. Established in 1982 under British Columbia's Society Act, it focuses on empowering women and girls in the Cariboo Chilcotin region, particularly around Williams Lake[2][4].

Mission and Vision

The society's mission is to provide support services that improve quality of life while advocating for gender equality. Its vision centers on enabling women and girls to achieve full autonomy across all aspects of life[1][2]. Guided by feminist principles, the organization operates on values including equality, leadership, inclusiveness, and accountability[2].

Programs and Services

Key initiatives include:

• Crisis support: Counseling for survivors of violence, abuse, and trauma[3]
• Essential needs assistance: Bulk purchasing programs for nutritious food at reduced costs[3]
• Childcare services: Licensed daycare, playgroups, and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library literacy program[1][5]
• Community engagement: Educational projects addressing women’s rights and early childhood development[5]

Governance

A volunteer board of directors governs the organization through consensus-based decision making. Membership operates on a sliding-scale fee system ($2-$20 annually), with approximately 100 members participating[2]. The society receives funding from provincial government sources, legal foundations, and private donations[5].

Historical Context

Founded during the second-wave feminism movement, the society emphasizes women's right to equal societal participation regardless of age, ability, sexual orientation, or economic background[2][4]. It acknowledges operating on Secwepemc peoples' traditional and unceded territory[1].