Bulgarian Fund for Women (BFW)’s “Mission: Possible” is the only donor program in Bulgaria that provides flexible and unrestricted funding to cover the administrative and organizational needs (the so-called core funding) of civil society organizations throughout the country. This type of support is key to their sustainable development because it is tailored to their specific needs, allows them to plan long-term and strategically, and focus entirely on the fulfillment of their goals. In 2022, the number of NGOs receiving funding from BFW under “Mission: Possible” increased to a total of 19 for its three editions since 2020. 

We are happy that our long-term partners from Avon Bulgaria recognize the need for the program and support our donor efforts! Victoria Petrova from the Fund’s team met with Veneta Dimitrova, Avon’s Sales Director for Bulgaria and North Macedonia and manager of the Bulgarian branch. 

Victoria P.: Mrs. Dimitrova, why did you decide to support BFW’s “Mission: Possible” program for covering administrative and organizational needs? 

Veneta D.: Avon places social responsibility and care for women and local communities at the basis of everything it does. This year, we made the decision to donate BGN 20,000 to BFW’s program “Mission: Possible”, which will be directed to support the Emprove Foundation and the achievement of organizational and administrative sustainability in order to continue working towards their mission – overcoming violence against women. 

Our donation is aimed at covering basic, but often neglected by project funding, needs such as renting an office, purchasing equipment, providing salaries for the team – therapists, lawyers and other professionals, from whom the women who experienced violence receive free psychological and legal consultations in a trusted and secure environment. 

We believe that by supporting the foundation’s strategic and long-term planning, we will contribute to it being able to fully dedicate itself and work consistently in support of women in the country. 

Victoria P.: Avon Bulgaria supports BFW in a number of initiatives. What do you think are the preconditions for a successful long-term partnership with a cause? 

Veneta D.: At the basis of a successful and long-term partnership with a cause are two key factors – a common mission and trust. The collaboration between Avon and BFW is a natural extension of our mission to work to address violence against women via awareness campaigns and activities to protect and support women affected by this complex societal problem. 

We are grateful that we have a reliable and like-minded partner like BFW. We trust and rely on your long-term experience and solid knowledge of the non-governmental sector in our country and its specific needs. 

The donation is made possible thanks to the combined efforts of Avon Representatives and clients, who once again opened their hearts to the cause. Therefore, it is extremely important for us to be confident that the collected funds are directed exactly where there is the greatest need and purpose. 

Victoria P: What responsibility do corporations have for achieving social change for women in Bulgaria? 

Veneta D.: It has been proven on numerous occasions that when women prosper, the whole society benefits. However, unfortunately, women still face many social and economic barriers that prevent them from reaching their potential. To remove these barriers and achieve sustainable social change, it is necessary to take action at many levels and for the whole society to be actively involved in this process. The business sector also plays a very important role in pursuing policies to close the gender pay gap, ensuring equal access to leadership positions, investing in causes associated with women’s health and safety. 

I am proud that at Avon these good practices are in place: 52% of the company’s senior management members are women, 70% of our scientists are women, we work hard towards equal pay between men and women. Our donations in support of women amount to $1.1 billion globally. We do all this because we believe that a better world for women is a better world for everyone! 

About Avon: For 135 years, Avon has been connecting people, using the power of beauty to change lives for the better. Millions of independent sales representatives worldwide sell our iconic brands through their social networks, building their own full-or part-time businesses. We fight for gender equality and know that it is necessary to listen to the needs of women in order to speak openly about important issues and create positive change. Via Avon and the Avon Foundation, we have donated over $1.1 billion with a focus on fighting breast cancer and gender-based violence. Avon is part of the Natura & Co Group. Learn more about us at www.avonworldwide.com. 

Victoria P.: Thank you for your time and willingness to support “Mission: Possible”! 

The fourth edition of “Mission: Possible” is open for applications until June 28, 2023! Learn more HERE.