News! Viv Ncaus: A Hmong Women’s Giving Circle is looking for designers for an exclusive Hmong-inspired fashion show and fundraiser to be held June 2, 2012, in Milwaukee.
We are Viv Ncaus, a sisterhood of women who raise funds to support our Hmong sisters and children. We are the first Hmong women’s giving circle in Wisconsin and we are dedicated to supporting innovative, community-based efforts that challenge the root causes of gender inequality and create social change through all Hmong people.
The giving circle was formalized within the Women’s Fund in December 2010. The spark that set this process into motion began with an incident involving the murder of a Hmong woman by her estranged husband. A group of Hmong women pooled their resources to pay for the woman’s burial since the family was not willing to take on this responsibility. Over several discussions, the group realized that this was not an isolated incident. A stable funding source was needed within the community to support a culture where Hmong women and girls have the right to equality, safety, opportunity and self-determination.
The idea that one person can indeed make a difference was reinforced when Pa Vang, a co-founder of the giving circle, participated in the Philanthropy Incubator Project, a Cardinal Stritch Leadership Center program which, in partnership with the Women’s Fund, engaged communities of color in philanthropy. Says Pa Vang, “A lot of women want to help other families during times of crisis, but they can’t do it because of the consequences they will face at home. Contributing a few dollars to the fund is something they can do to feel they are part of the solution and not being silent.”
Current Grant Partners
Hmong Women’s Council of Central Wisconsin (Fiscal Sponsor: Eau Claire Area Hmong Mutual Assistance Association)
$1,000 | Unrestricted Support
Creating a network of Hmong women community leaders to inspire social change and establish a supportive sisterhood.
Journey Through Threading Sewing (Fiscal Sponsor: Eau Claire Area Hmong Mutual Assistance Association)
$2,000 | Unrestricted Support
Hmong women (including elders) showcase and teach the younger generation of Hmong women, the skill of Hmong sewing and creates an opportunity to engage in conversations around history and identity.
Nkauj Hmoob (Fiscal Sponsor: Freedom Inc.)
$2,925 | Unrestricted Support
Develops leadership skills among elementary, middle school, and high school Hmong girls, and engages them in social justice work.
Steering Committee Members
MayTong Chang (Co-Founder)
Chai Moua (Co-Founder)
True Thao
Kabzuag Vaj (Co-Founder)
Mee Vang
Pa Y. Vang (Co-Founder)
Pahua Vang
Tammie Mee Xiong (Co-Founder)
Nor Yang (Co-Founder)
Note: The Women’s Fund retains a percentage of all restricted gifts.