Survivors Share about the Impact of the Women’s Empowerment Programming

The TAPS Women’s Empowerment program uses both in-person and online events to bring surviving women together. When we gather in person, the effect is magical, and we cherish our time together. We also know, however, that distance doesn’t silence the heart of our sisterhood — and so we’re also just a few clicks away with online offerings that focus on connection, creativity, meditation and movement. 

In 2021, TAPS Women's Empowerment welcomed more first-time attendees than any other TAPS Program, with 2,231 women attending nearly 160 online events. 

Women's Empowerment programming equips surviving women with the tools needed to move forward with resilience, joy, and gratitude. Our vibrant, compassionate community of surviving women is a place of support and inspiration, where we treasure opportunities to be each other’s teachers, confidantes, cheerleaders, and friends.

What are Women Saying About their TAPS Women's Empowerment Online and In-Person Programming Experience?

"The sessions we had each day made me feel like the leaders were talking directly to me. I am going through such a big transition in my life and I had a major breakthrough at the retreat. I was so depressed for months, and I couldn't pull myself out of it. Coming to this retreat was like a light switch. I feel like just my own internal communication and reflection was so important during the week, but it wouldn’t have happened if they didn't ask the questions."

"I returned home with newfound energy and confidence that I can keep going and have the strength for myself and my sons. I needed the reassurance that I am doing a great job, and I have so many women to reach out to now as well. I've felt like I've been treading water for a very long time, mostly because I can't figure out what changes will move me forward. I feel much closer to figuring that out now. I think the small changes I'm making, based on what I've learned at the Women's Empowerment Retreat, will get me there."

"At first, I was hesitant about being with a group of women that were not all widows like me. I wasn't sure how much we would have in common. But, I found that it was really helpful to get different perspectives from fiancees, mothers, and daughters, as well as other widows. I think I am now more equipped to identify with and understand my other loved ones' perspectives."

"Thank you, TAPS, for providing me with a safe place, resources, tools and new friends for support. I left the Women's Empowerment Retreat carrying less guilt, anger and pain, while taking with me hope for a healthier and more meaningful life."

"I was hesitant to attend an event like the TAPS Women's Empowerment Retreat. I wasn't ready to open up or let strangers in. I decided I'd go, but not share. My plan was to learn as much as possible, but not let anyone in. I quickly realized that these amazing women were just like me. They understood my pain and were willing to open up. I realized that I was in a safe place and that maybe I too could help someone else by sharing. It was the best decision, and it opened up a new path to healing. I learned so much and gained new friends — women that I still communicate with regularly. I am so grateful to have had this opportunity. It was the blessing I asked for but didn't realize just how much I needed.”

"I haven’t felt this good in a long time. I'm finally hopeful again."

"I am so excited for life now. This retreat prompted me to have the hard conversations with loved ones, and I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. I can no longer not take up space, I must live."

"This experience was like no other. It was tough, but it was so worth it. I haven’t felt this great in years. Thank you TAPS for all you do. There are no words to fully capture what your support has done for me in my grief journey."

"The Women's Empowerment Retreat does exactly that. It helped me find the strength within to realize that I was carrying around a lot of guilt, regret and pain. While I know the pain will always be there, I know that I deserve to live a life that is full of joy and purpose. This retreat helped me know that I am capable of living a healthy, happy and meaningful life with the tools I now have for my journey!"

TAPS Women's Empowerment Online Programming Schedule

Join our supportive community online for creative sessions, meditation, and movement offerings, as we support each other and explore ways to grieve with courage and to live with intention.

If you have any questions about online or 2023 in-person Women's Empowerment programming, please email empowerment@taps.org.