"Most of my life was centered around living for the moment. I had very few resources and very little real life education to make good decisions.  What I did have was a voice and that ultimately became my vehicle of growth.  I, with Steve Stoute, created FFAWN: The Mary J. Blige and Steve Stoute Foundation for the Advancement of Women Now, Inc. because I believe every young woman, if given encouragement and a helping hand (a hand filled with resources), can reach her greatest potential.  It is my great hope that FFAWN will be a vehicle to help other women reach greater heights despite their environment, despite low self esteem, despite their immediate circumstances."

Mission Statement

The Mary J. Blige and Steve Stoute Foundation for the Advancement of Women Now, Inc. (FFAWN) is an organization founded by Mary J. Blige to inspire women from all walks of life to reach their individual potential.  Through scholarships, grants, and programs that foster strong self-esteem, career development, and personal growth, FFAWN is intended to help women gain the confidence and skills they need to achieve success.  FFAWN will initially focus its efforts in Yonkers and surrounding communities in Westchester and then expand its scope to include the Greater New York area and, eventually, the entire country.