Professional Women’s Group

Professional Women’s Group (PWG) is the first and only national initiative of its kind, focused on specific workshops and networking as a job retention and career development tool for women re-entering the workforce.

“…the feeling of self confidence and ongoing support from DFS Pittsburgh continued to move me forward….”
DFS PITTSBURGH Client, age 42, mother of 1

“PWG is my lifeline.  The women here have become my friends and I look forward to every meeting.” – PWG member for 1 1/2 years, age 51, East End resident

Once a client gains employment, they are invited to join PWG, which offers substantive support to help them maintain employment and advance their careers.

PWG is the first and only national initiative of its kind, focused on specific job retention workshops and networking as a career development tool for women re-entering the workforce. It takes a practical and comprehensive approach to moving low-income women toward financial and emotional self-sufficiency by addressing social and economic needs in relation to work, home, and community. PWG provides a safe and supportive environment for women who have recently transitioned into the workforce.

Each regularly scheduled meeting consists of two key elements: an expert speaker leading a discussion and a peer group period. Speaker topics respond to members’ goals and include financial planning (budgeting, credit repair, basic banking), time management, workplace communication, self-esteem improvement, child care options and health management. Established professionals serve as volunteers, discussion leaders and group mentors to encourage roundtable dialogue and meaningful networking for PWG members.  The members play a significant role in our program, providing direction on program topics and support for each other.

Mentoring Program
In 2010, DFS Pittsburgh launched its Mentoring Program. The Mentoring Program pairs clients with Duquesne University Coaches In Training, who provide one-on-one support in the ongoing process of setting career goals and navigating workplace challenges to strengthen their move toward independence, self-sufficiency and long-term stability.