What is an EWL Chapter?
An Empower With Literacy (EWL) Chapter is a local extension of our nonprofit dedicated to promoting access to education for children around the world. Whether made up of 5 members or 50, every chapter plays a vital role in advancing our mission to ensure that every child - regardless of background - has the tools, resources, and support needed to thrive academically.
Chapters can take many forms: a school club, a community-based group, or even a regional initiative. What unites them is a shared, ongoing commitment to creating educational change in their local communities while contributing to EWL’s global impact.
However, it's important to note the difference between a chapter and standalone While both can involve teamwork and shared goals, a chapter represents a sustained effort. Chapters are expected to maintain strong relationships with team members, volunteers, donors, and local institutions such as schools, libraries, and shelters. This consistent engagement ensures that every chapter makes a lasting, localized impact while furthering Empower With Literacy’s worldwide mission.
Steps to Create a Chapter:
Setting Your Chapter up:
(School Chapters Only): Before submitting an application to EWL, obtain approval from your school admin
1. Apply to register your chapter with Empower With Literacy
2. Get interviewed by our Executive and Chapter Oversight Team
3. Assign Chapter Officers/Directors
4. Collect and complete all necessary forms to create your Chapter
5. Organize monthly events your Chapter plans on executing
6. Start recruiting!
Perks of Having a Chapter:
1. Make a global impact by supporting education for children worldwide
2. Gain leadership experience through organizing events and managing a team
3. Build your resume or college apps with meaningful community service
4. Connect with a global network of passionate student changemakers
5. Access exclusive EWL resources, guidance, and recognition
6. Earn service hours
Recruiting for Your Chapter:
1. Create + spread flyers within your community
2. Ask friends/family to spread the word
3. Utilize platforms such as your school’s newsletter, morning news show, or magazine to spread the word
4. Kick off the year strong by representing your chapter at your school’s club fair if applicable!
5. Attract members with perks, shoutouts, or exclusive opportunities
Fundraising for Your Chapter:
1. Host bake sales, car washes, or school spirit events to raise funds locally
2. Organize virtual fundraisers like online auctions, donation drives, or crowdfunding campaigns
3. Partner with local businesses for sponsorships or donation-matching programs
4. Create and sell handmade crafts or merchandise with proceeds supporting EWL’s mission
5. Promote your fundraiser through school newsletters, social media, and community boards to reach a wider audience
6. Participate in (the mandatory) 3 fundraisers throughout the year on behalf of EWL
Want Tips on How Get Started?
EWL Chapter Roadmap Coming Soon!
View Our Global Chapters!
School Chapters:​
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EWL High Tech LA
City-wide Chapters:
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State Chapters:
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Benefits of Joining the EWL Network
At Empower With Literacy, we want to help you become a leader - not just in your community, but in your own future. When you join an EWL chapter, you’ll get hands - on tips and tools that can actually boost your chances of getting into top schools like Stanford, Columbia, and Wharton!
Once your chapter is approved, we don’t just leave you to figure it out. We provide training sessions and share resources that cover everything from managing your team to building strong partnerships. Plus, you’ll have the chance to join workshops led by college admissions pros and experts who know exactly what top universities are looking for.
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We also love to celebrate your hard work. Every year, we plan to give awards out to the best chapters at the school, city , and state levels; these include items such as gift cards, scholarships, and certificates!