" I discovered that I am a leader, that I am capable of going far in life, and that I am worthy. " - Val, WBP Graduate
Women’s Bean Project is a transitional employment program for women who have faced systemic barriers to employment. Participants in the program are hired as production assistants and work in our food manufacturing business, making and packaging the food products we sell. At the same time, they also participate in job readiness training and wrap-around support. Participants gain hands-on work experience in our food manufacturing business, engage in a robust series of classes, and earn full-time wages. With individualized support from case managers and access to wrap-around resources, women strengthen their confidence, expand their skills, and work towards economic independence.
Who we serve
Each year, WBP partners with women 40 - 60 women who are ready to transform their lives through employment. All women enter the program with resilience and determination while also navigating significant barriers to employment and economic mobility. Prior to enrollment, all women live below the Federal Poverty Level. 71% are experiencing housing instability, 93% identify as being in recovery from substance misuse, and 46% have not yet earned a high school diploma or GED. 96% have been involved in the justice system and 41% are working to regain custody of their children. Additionally, 79% identify as women of color, and women of color experience these systemic barriers with disproportionate impact. These systemic barriers also correlate with trauma; the average Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) score for program participants is 5.96, compared to the U.S. average of only 1.6.
How you can help
Your support fuels opportunities for women to thrive. Donations fund essential program activities such as financial literacy and budgeting workshops, GED and adult literacy classes, individual case management, job coaching, partnerships with organizations like Dress for Success, and other life skill building activities that are essential to each woman’s success. When you give, you invest in women who are working hard to strengthen their skills, build confidence, and step into meaningful careers. Like you, we believe every woman has the power to transform her life through employment. Your gift supports each woman on her journey to personal and economic self-sufficiency.
“I learned I can have a stable future and a career. I learned that determination goes a long way.” - Carllette
Being at the Bean gives me a sense of security and peace. It's not just a job to me - it's my community. - Kayla
Being here has shown me that I can be a positive role model not only for my children but for my peers as well. - Crystal
Women’s Bean Project supports women striving to create lasting change in their lives by establishing steppingstones to self-sufficiency.
Women’s Bean Project (WBP) is a nonprofit social enterprise that empowers women experiencing chronic unemployment and provides paid transitional employment, job readiness training, case management, and wraparound supports. Founded in 1989 by Jossy Eyre, WBP operates with a philosophy that employment paired with supportive services can be a pathway out of poverty. What began with two women packing 10 Bean Soup has expanded to include a sales presence in over 800 stores and hotels across the U.S., including some of the country’s largest retailers such as King Soopers and Whole Foods. Nearly 2,000 women have built new futures through WBP, and the impact echo of this work through their children, their families, and their communities is even greater.
Organization name
Women's Bean Project
other names
WBP
1989
Category
Employment
Organization Size
Large Organization
Colorado State Tax Credits
Colorado Enterprise Zone Credit
Address
1300 W Alameda AvenueDenver County, CO, US
Phone
303-292-1919
Fax
303-292-1221
Other
303-292-1919 113