Amidst the current challenges, we are doing our best at NMW.O to navigate these times of uncertainty. 2020 has demanded change on so many levels – with the spread of a global pandemic, and growing racial justice uprising. For NMW.O, these changes have meant adapting quickly and remaining flexible in order to meet the immediate needs of communities in New Mexico. This spring, we initiated our Gender Equity Emergency Fund (GEEF) which disburses funding statewide, published a response paper, Gender Justice at the Heart of New Mexico’s Pandemic Recovery, and pivoted to hosting virtual town halls and webinars with our grantee partners and donor community. We know this stressful time is impacting the health and well-being of our partners and the self-identifying women and girls with whom we work. It has also been hard on the staff of NMW.O, as each of us juggles the pressures of work alongside other significant responsibilities to family and community.
As we anticipate the months ahead, we are wondering how to care for ourselves, each other and our communities? We know that staying connected is critical to our well-being. With this in mind, NMW.O has committed to having in-person staff meetings at local parks, complete with masks and social distancing. Additionally, since these times are by no means ‘business as usual’, we have adjusted our annual goals, activities and expectations to reflect the reality of this moment. As a team we encourage each other to relax and restore by taking time off, being with loved ones, working on creative projects, or simply resting. While this may fly in the face of what is considered “productive”, we know that an ethos of self and community care keeps us grounded, focused, strong and prepared to face current and future challenges. How are you supporting your health and well-being, and that of your community right now? We would love to hear from you.