Bread Financial, a company specializing in modern financial services such as payment solutions, lending options, and personalized savings solutions, has made a significant contribution of $1 million to the Women’s Sports Foundation. This donation aims to bolster the Foundation’s continuous efforts in promoting the empowerment of girls and women through sports and physical activities.
The donation from Bread Financial will significantly aid WSF in advancing its long-term strategic growth by enhancing fundraising capabilities and increasing national awareness through a range of events and advocacy efforts. A portion of the contribution will be allocated to conducting evidence-based research, including the 10th edition of its analysis of the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2026. This research aims to explore trends in participation and leadership among women athletes, aiming to promote equity within the Olympic and Paralympic movement. Additionally, Bread Financial’s support will underpin various initiatives related to WSF’s National Girls & Women in Sports Day and the Annual Salute to Women in Sports, which is the organization’s premier fundraising event.
Ralph Andretta, president and CEO of Bread Financial said, “Bread Financial embraces and promotes diversity, equity and inclusion to create a sense of belonging, build trust and deliver value for our associates, partners, customers and business. Through the Women’s Sports Foundation’s advocacy, research and programing we are supporting, we look forward to helping create a more equitable society where every girl and woman can realize their full potential. As a father of two women athletes, I know that when girls play, compete, and are supported, society wins.”
The Women’s Sports Foundation (WSF) marks its 50th anniversary with celebrations. Founded by sports legend and advocate for social justice Billie Jean King, WSF has been a pioneering force in acknowledging the significant intersection of sports, equality, and society. It has evolved into a key supporter of the entire women’s sports community, committed to advancing the vision of its founder. WSF continues to lead efforts in creating pathways to equity for girls and women, both in sports and beyond.
WSF CEO Danette Leighton said, “For 50 years and counting, the Women’s Sports Foundation’s research, advocacy and community programming, have been helping girls and women across the country play, compete and lead – in sports and beyond – without barriers. Bread Financial’s support will help propel our mission into the next 50 years and bolster our efforts to build a more equitable future for girls and women on the field of play, the front office, the boardroom, and beyond.”