05 Mar Empowering Women, Building Community.
“There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.”
Michelle Obama
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we honor the extraordinary women who have been part of The Sophia Way’s journey – those who have supported and empowered women experiencing homelessness and those who have found strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Women have always been the heart and backbone of The Sophia Way, working together to create a community where every woman has a place to call home.
The foundation of The Sophia Way’s mission is our late founder, Helen Leuzzi, a visionary leader whose unwavering passion transformed an idea into a thriving organization. Helen didn’t just dream of sheltering women in crisis – she built a community of care, compassion, and giving. She worked tirelessly to ensure that every woman who walked through our doors found not only shelter but also dignity, support, and hope. Because of Helen’s dedication, The Sophia Way has grown from a small nonprofit into a vital resource that serves hundreds of women every day, guiding them toward stability and independent living.
Her legacy lives on through an incredible network of women – staff, volunteers, case managers, donors, and community members – who devote their time, energy, and resources to uplifting others. The Support Network, a group of women who have met every month since 2010, embodies this spirit of generosity and commitment. They provide meals, collect essential items, and inspire their congregations to give selflessly. Their support extends beyond donations; it is a testament to the power of community and the belief that when women come together, we can change lives.
The National Women’s History Project has declared the theme of Women’s History Month 2025 as “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations” – a theme that perfectly reflects the essence of The Sophia Way. Every day, we witness the power of mentorship, leadership, and education. The women we serve come from diverse backgrounds and face immense challenges, yet they show remarkable resilience. Despite their struggles, they support one another, offering comfort, understanding, and friendship to those who share their journey. Many women who once sought shelter return years later, staying connected to the community that supported them. The relationships they build – with one another and with case managers – endure long after they transition to stable housing.
The impact of The Sophia Way extends beyond the women we directly serve. Our donors and supporters, many of whom have been with us for years, continue to invest in the well-being of women in need. Their generosity fuels our mission, ensuring more women can find shelter, safety, and stability.
We celebrate every woman who has shaped and sustained The Sophia Way – those who have given and those who have received. We honor the strength, resilience, and generosity of the women in our community, and we reaffirm our commitment to moving forward together, ensuring that no woman has to face homelessness alone. To each one of you who walks this journey with us, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your compassion and dedication make a difference every single day.