Empowerment Through Education: buildOn and Circle of Sisterhood

Education is a powerful tool for change, and when girls have access to quality education, the entire world benefits. That’s why buildOn is proud to partner with Circle of Sisterhood, a remarkable organization dedicated to removing barriers to education for girls and women worldwide.

The Inspiration Behind the Partnership

Ginny Carroll, Executive Director of Circle of Sisterhood, was deeply moved by the book “Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide.” The book highlighted the harsh realities faced by women and girls in low-income countries, where gender-based violence and a lack of educational opportunities keep women trapped in poverty. Inspired by her own experience as a sorority woman and recognizing the power of collective action, Ginny founded Circle of Sisterhood in 2010.

“As a college-educated sorority woman, I felt a responsibility to help girls and women worldwide pursue education,” Ginny explains. “However, I knew that my impact alone would be limited. But I was part of one of the largest communities of college-educated women—sorority women—who I knew would help.”

In 2013, Circle of Sisterhood partnered with buildOn to expand their impact through school construction projects. This collaboration has been incredibly successful, resulting in the construction of 45 schools in seven countries over the past eleven years.

“I knew that my impact alone would be limited. But I was part of one of the largest communities of college-educated women—sorority women—who I knew would help.” —Ginny Carroll, Executive Director of Circle of Sisterhood

Building Leaders Through Service

The partnership between buildOn and Circle of Sisterhood not only provides educational opportunities for girls in low-income countries but also helps young women in the U.S. become global leaders. Sorority members involved in Circle of Sisterhood fundraising and service efforts develop essential leadership skills, resilience, and a deeper understanding of global citizenship.

“Every aspect of undertaking a project of this scale fosters resilience, enhances leadership skills, and deepens the understanding of what it means to be a global citizen,” says Ginny. “It also boosts their confidence and independence as they overcome the challenges of navigating unfamiliar situations.”

The Importance of Global Engagement

For young women in the U.S., engaging in global education initiatives is crucial. As Ginny points out, “As one of the largest communities of college-educated women in the world, sorority women recognize that less than 7% of the world’s population—both men and women—hold college degrees. With this privilege comes significant responsibility.”

By supporting women and girls’ education, these young women are contributing to a more equitable and prosperous world. “We understand the transformative power of education and are committed to helping girls and women become educated, literate, and prosperous. When women thrive, everyone benefits,” Ginny emphasizes.

“We are committed to helping girls and women become educated, literate, and prosperous. When women thrive, everyone benefits.” —Ginny Carroll

Transformative Trek Experiences

buildOn’s Trek program provides volunteers with the opportunity to immerse themselves in different cultures and contribute directly to school construction projects. For Circle of Sisterhood volunteers, these experiences are often life-changing.

“We frequently hear from Trek participants that their experience was transformative,” says Ginny. “Having the chance to live and work alongside a community in another part of the world, fully immersed in their culture and customs, has significantly broadened their perspectives. Being part of the groundbreaking for a school structure in a developing country also highlights one’s own privileges, challenging assumptions and broadening perspectives.”

Interested in expanding your perspective and making a global impact? Start your buildOn Trek journey today!

Want to get your sorority involved in this life-changing work? Learn more about Circle of Sisterhood here.