About usWelcome to
Welcome to
Powerful Purses
Powerful Purses is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to empowering women through education. We provide college-level scholarships and meaningful support to qualified Gladney Center birthmothers, as well as through strategic partnerships that expand educational access for women and girls in our community—including our newest partnership with the Young Women’s Leadership Academy (YWLA) of Fort Worth.
Founded in 2010 by Cynthia R. Bailey and Barbara A. Fife, Powerful Purses was created with a bold vision: to unite the local commercial real estate community around a shared purpose—investing in women and strengthening our communities through education. What began as an idea has grown into a respected organization known for excellence, integrity, and impact.
Through thoughtfully curated events that educate, inspire, and connect, Powerful Purses raises funds to support our scholars beyond tuition alone. Our mission extends into mentorship, networking, and personal development—equipping women not only to pursue higher education, but to build sustainable careers and confident, fulfilled lives.
At its core, Powerful Purses believes that when women and girls are educated, families thrive, industries evolve, and communities grow stronger.
Scholarship Recipients
We guide most of our scholars to Tarrant County College to begin their degree courses then they identify a 4-year university, for approval by Powerful Purses, to complete their degree. However, some are approved to begin their education at a 4-year university. We prefer the universities in our DFW Metroplex but have approved scholars request to attend A&M and Texas Tech; all universities must be local area or within the State of Texas. Scholarship recipients must be a qualified birthmother of the Gladney Center. Applications for Powerful Purses Scholarships are received by Gladney who submits to Powerful Purses for consideration and scholarship awards. Powerful Purses Scholarships are awarded to the Scholar in the name of a Named Honoree.
Co-Founders & Board Members
The Powerful Purses Board of Directors is comprised of nine members who are recognized leaders in the commercial real estate industry, education and within the community. The board members are responsible to provide direction for the organization by strategically planning today and creating policies that will bring future successes for the mission. The board works closely with its Archives & Leadership Executive Council and the Advisory Council.
About the Gladney Center for Adoption
Gladney has been a pioneer and leading voice for improving the lives of children, adoptive families, and birthparents for more than 130 years. They provide information and support to pregnant and parenting mothers who are looking into having their children adopted.
We Love Our Sponsors
Sponsors attend an annual event program at the Fort Worth Club where they enjoy a luncheon and an inspiring program for professionals. They have the opportunity to meet the scholarship recipients and learn about their journey.
