Last month, The Women’s Foundation was among a group of organizations and individuals invited to an important discussion about women and the economy held by the White House Council on Women and Girls.  Created by President Obama in 2009, the Council works to ensure that federal agencies are taking the needs of women and girls into account as they draft policies and create programs.

How do you show others that you love or care about them?  Some people say it with kind words, thoughtful gifts or generous donations.  My grandmother, Esther, has always expressed it through actions.  Now going on 96-years-old, in good health, and having outlived both of my parents and most of her siblings and friends, my grandmother has always expressed her love by having a full pantry and room at the table for anyone who needed a meal.  And that wasn’t always easy.  My grandmother emigrated to the US in the 1950s with two teenage daughters and raised them essentially on her own.

Earlier today, the Associated Press reported that a record number of Americans have fallen into poverty or are barely scraping by.  1 in 2 people are poor or low-income, the AP found, and safety net programs have kept poverty from rising even higher.  It is facts like these that prompted Washington Area Women’s Foundation to focus its work on economic security for women and girls and to make strategic investments in programs that have an impact.

In today’s rundown: how to ensure that the employees at your favorite restaurants are being treated fairly.  Plus, a new study shows that women drive most charitable giving.

In today’s rundown: A special after school guest for the students at Horton’s Kids.  A look at why unemployment is so high in some parts of DC even though there are many jobs available.  Plus, analysis of the latest unemployment numbers and what they mean for women.

In today’s rundown: The number of young parents who need housing in DC is on the rise.  Plus, Gloria Steinem talks about the women’s movement and what she learned after turning 60.

In today’s rundown: Last chance to apply for a giving circle grant.  Ensuring that women are part of the strategy to battle AIDS.  New unemployment numbers. And “disgusting” remarks from a presidential candidate about children who live in poverty.

In today’s rundown: A new video contest is giving girls across the country a chance to participate in problem solving.  Plus, a new report takes a look at the impact of poverty on young families.

In today’s rundown: Nearly half of Americans don’t have economic security, according to a new report.  Guidelines on eating ethically are coming out in DC this week.  And almost half of men surveyed say they’d like to be stay-at-home husbands if their wives out earned them.

In today’s rundown: Honoring the most influential businesswomen in the region.  A new study finds the best pathways to the middle class.  And why women veterans rock.