The Beyond Access program puts women and girls at the heart of development — not just giving them access to water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH), and economic tools, but designing those services to work together in a way that drives lasting transformation.
By layering WASH, microfinance, and economic empowerment activities, we build confidence, grow skills, and remove systemic barriers. We also work to shift deeply rooted cultural and spiritual mindsets — opening the door to a more hopeful future where women and girls can live into their full potential.
And it’s working.
Midterm results show women in our program areas are experiencing:
Greater autonomy over their time
A stronger belief in their ability to save money and start businesses
Higher income, employment, and business ownership
Improved access to safe water
These outcomes reflect our commitment to listening to women, prioritizing their needs, and delivering holistic, empowerment-centered solutions. The ripple effect? Better care for children, stronger families, and more resilient communities.
Read on for a partner reflection, the results from the 2025 Women for Women relay, and an impact update on our goal of empowering 150 million women and girls to reach their full potential by 2030!
Partner spotlight:Transformation in motion
A reflection written by Strong Women Strong World Council member Chris Hardy
Chris Hardy planting a tree in Zimbabwe
During my visits to the Beyond Access communities in Zimbabwe and Honduras, I witnessed remarkable transformation — not just in livelihoods, but in women’s confidence, relationships, and sense of self-worth.
Women who once walked hours for water now lead community gardens, run small businesses, and speak with authority and pride. One woman told us, "Before, I had to beg my husband for money. Now we sit together and decide how to spend what we've earned."
In conversations and community visits, we heard stories of women who now participate in decisions that shape their families and communities — some even holding leadership roles for the first time. One mother shared, "I didn't know I had choices before. Now I participate in making decisions that impact my family and community."
The impact was visible: stronger marriages, happier children, and women supporting each other in powerful ways. What struck me most was the pride — the ownership they felt over their lives and futures.
I was also so impressed by the World Vision management and staff. They understand the impact of empowering women and integrated programming. One staff member said, "We first were women sensitive in our work. Now we are women intentional."
Beyond Access isn’t just about what these women do differently. It’s about who they believe they are — capable, respected, and free to lead.
Chris and a program participant in Honduras
1,284 Miles: 2025 Women for Women 24-hour Relay
Last month the annual Women for Women relay took place in beautiful Santa Barbara, CA. Ready for some truly incredible numbers? 111 women made up 16 teams that completed 347 relay legs where they walked, jogged or ran 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) — the average distance a woman or girl walks to collect water. Together, these women raised over $850,000 directly supporting programs that impact women and girls the most! We are so thankful for every walker, jogger, runner, supporter, and volunteer that used their voices and talents to care for the most vulnerable around the world.
Registration is now open for next year's relay, taking place July 24-25, 2026, in Santa Barbara, CA. You can learn more by visiting the website at: teamworldvision.org/w4w26.
Your impact: 2025 Empowering Women and Girls Semi-Annual Report
Between October 2022-March 2025, we have reached more than 28 million women and girls with support that is changing lives! And with your partnership, we'll equip and empower a total of 150 million women and girls over the next five years.
By 2030, we pray to see:
Lifesaving access to clean water close to home
Health facilities upgraded with sanitation and clean water
Families equipped to improve their livelihoods
Children protected from violence and child marriage
And so much more!
Check out our semi-annual report (click on the image to view) which highlights our global progress towards our goal and to learn more about the 28 million women and girls reached through World Vision's projects across all sectors and countries!
Ways to take action
Strong Women Strong World New York | Dec 5, 2025
This year's event will highlight our Big Dream to End Child Marriage program. We're excited to see you again and to share our vision to end child marriage in our lifetime. Contact your rep if you would like more invitation on how to join us this December!
Lend your voice (and your email): Join the World Vision Advocates — a community of ordinary people who desire to follow God's call to seek justice! Visit World Vision Advocacy to learn more.
Engage on social media: Follow Strong Women Strong World on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for updates, inspiring stories, and more.
World Vision's Strong Women Strong World®
helps keep girls and women at the center of global community development, advocacy,
and emergency response work. Together, we can continue making a difference
in the lives of women and girls and accelerate communities’ progress out of poverty.
