THE Women’s Spirit Project (WSP) is launching a new free eight-week online program designed to help transform lives affected by trauma, burnout, isolation, and adversity.
For the past eight years, the local registered charity has supported women navigating difficult times. WSP have taken into consideration the fact women often have busy schedules, financial stress, and/or children, and have designed a new flexible initiative.
Juanita Sanger, Lead Facilitator, said their programs are built for women experiencing life’s challenges.
“Whether it’s burnout, loss, mental health challenges, domestic violence or simply feeling stuck in survival mode,” said Sanger.
To help break down any logistical hurdles, the new program will bring support to wherever the women are.
“When we do these online and in the evening, everyone will be able to either join from a phone or from a laptop,” said Sanger. “It’s free, so it’s very accessible, which means that we remove the cost barrier.”
The program begins with an in-person workshop in October, followed by five Tuesday evening online sessions. A group of women will take steps together, guided by facilitators and volunteer mentors who have navigated their own challenges.
For anyone interested, there is an opportunity to learn more and meet the team at an informal welcome session on 1 September at Our Place in Frankston.
“No commitment needed, just see if it feels right,” said Sanger.
Sanger acknowledged that many women feel isolated and don’t know where to start, which is where WSP comes in.
“We create a welcoming environment from day one, starting with a warm meet-and-greet women’s circle with our volunteer mentors,” said Sanger. “Over the course of the journey, the transformation is incredible. Women complete our programs knowing where they want to go next.”
Sanger said the program connects women to the wider community, which opens doors to employment and new opportunities.
“They rebuild their strength, reclaim their confidence, and take charge of their future,” said Sanger.
Managing Director Suzanne Murphy said the organisation was born out of a glaring gap in traditional support services.
“Behind every woman walking through our doors is a quiet, courageous decision that her story and her children’s, won’t end where it started,” said Murphy. “We walk beside them until they find their strength.”
WSP relies heavily on donations to keep their doors open and allow them to provide their services free-of-charge.
They have launched the Give Her Wings appeal, with a goal of raising $80,000 in August.
“We have already raised $60,000, thanks to the generous support of our community and donors like Pressroom Philanthropy, Smart Business Solutions Group, Women in Business Mornington Peninsula, Frankston Rotary Club, RAW Travel and Jodie Belyea,” said Murphy.
“When donors support us, we remind them that they aren’t just helping one individual woman; they help breaking a cycle and support driving lasting, generational change.”
You can support the cause here: charidy.com/wsp and sign up to the WSP programs here: womensspiritproject.org.
First published in the Mornington News – 11 August 2026
