Why We Need FRNDS

Early Support Builds Better Futures

There is broad agreement that early financial education, post-secondary guidance, and mentorship are key to long-term success for young women of color. This thinking is supported by powerful research:

  1. The National Center for Education Statistics shows that only 30–34% of Black and Latina women graduate college in four years, compared to 45% of white women.
    Early guidance helps close this gap before it becomes a lifetime setback.

  2. The Boston Women’s Workforce Council reports that Black and Latina women earn just 52–54¢ for every dollar earned by white men in Boston.
    Financial literacy and seed funding create early economic agency before these gaps widen.

  3. McKinsey’s Women in the Workplace Report highlights that while women of color represent 20% of entry-level roles, they make up just 6% of C-suite leadership—the sharpest drop-off in the talent pipeline.
    Mentorship and professional preparation help change that trajectory.

The Opportunity Gap for Women of Color is Not Decreasing

Partner With FRNDS

Without early intervention:

  • Credit card debt and poor financial decisions set in before the age of 25

  • Many drop out of college or never apply because they don’t see a clear path forward

  • Lack of professional exposure leads to underemployment and missed opportunities

  • Cycles of economic instability and limited upward mobility continue

The Cost of Inaction Is Too High

Our partners make this work possible. Whether you’re a school, funder, company, or community leader, your support helps us deliver:

  • Culturally-relevant financial education

  • College and Career Exploration for first-gen students

  • Professional mentorship and job prep

  • Seed funding for real financial plans

➔ Learn how to become a FRNDS partner
➔ Support our programs with a donation
➔ Sponsor a pitch night, workshop, or challenge

Together, we can prepare the next generation of financially powerful young women.