Ellington

The Women's Fund of Mississippi's newest member, Promise Burrell, has valuable real-life experience. She hopes those experiences speak to the barriers Mississippi women often face.

The 31-year-old Brandon native became the nonprofit organization's program assistant in January. She says being a teenage mother and working as assistant manager of a check-cashing franchise made her realize how critical groups like the Women's Fund, a grant making and advocacy organization, are for aiding women.

"It's very close hearted to me," she says. I have two girls. (and) I appreciate what the Women's Fund is doing. Not that many organizations focus really on girls and women. If we can prevent teenage pregnancy, that will prevent these girls from dropping out of school."

The Women's Fund has focused on payday lending and teen pregnancy prevention during this year's legislative session.

The organization issues grants to organizations that address social change. This year's grantees, awarded in December, include: The Center for Violence Prevention to implement domestic violence prevention programs in rural Mississippi; Mississippi First for teen pregnancy prevention programs; Court Appointed Special Advocates to increase public awareness and development initiatives for girls in foster care; and Moore Community House for its Women in Construction program.

Burrell, a Belhaven University student majoring in science of management, is currently helping organize the Women's Fund's March fundraiser. The fundraiser features playwright and actress Anna Deavere Smith who will perform "Snapshots," her hour-long play exploring themes of race, community and character in America.

"Snapshots" is Thursday, March 10 at the Jackson Convention Complex. The Women's Fund hosts a cocktail party before the performance and a dessert and Champagne reception with Deavere at Underground 119 afterward. Tickets are $250 per person and can be purchased by calling 601-326-0700 or e-mailing [e-mail missing].