Our Services
Our Main Purpose
The Community Encouragement Foundation (CEF) is a dedicated organization in Sri Lanka committed to empowering marginalized women and communities through advocacy, social justice, and sustainable development. Established in 2003 in response to the hardships faced by war-affected populations and vulnerable groups such as sex workers, CEF works tirelessly to promote human rights, provide access to healthcare, and create economic opportunities. Its main purpose is to foster dignity, equality, and empowerment for women who have been marginalized and discriminated against, ensuring they can lead healthier, more autonomous lives and participate fully in society.
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Core Service
Empowerment and Capacity Building
Develop and implement training programs that enhance the skills and self-confidence of marginalized women, enabling them to secure sustainable livelihoods and make informed life choices.
Facilitate leadership workshops and mentorship opportunities to support women in becoming advocates for themselves and their communities.
Access to Healthcare and Support Services
Ensure marginalized women have access to comprehensive healthcare services, including reproductive health, mental health support, and sexual health education.
Create safe spaces where women can seek help, support, and counseling free from stigma and judgment, particularly for survivors of gender-based violence.
Addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV)
Implement awareness campaigns to educate the community about the impacts of gender-based violence and promote a culture of respect and equality.
Provide specialized support services for survivors of GBV, including legal assistance, counseling, and rehabilitation programs.
Collaborate with local authorities and organizations to strengthen the response to GBV and advocate for policy changes that protect women’s rights.
Advocacy and Awareness
Raise awareness about the rights and challenges faced by marginalized women, particularly female sex workers, and promote social acceptance and understanding within the broader community.
Engage in policy advocacy to influence local and national policies that protect the rights of marginalized women and improve their living conditions.
Economic Empowerment and Livelihood Support
Establish cooperative businesses or microfinance initiatives that provide economic opportunities for marginalized women, helping them achieve financial independence.
Offer vocational training tailored to the needs of local markets, empowering women to pursue diverse livelihoods.
Education and Awareness for Girls
Implement educational programs aimed at girls fleeing poverty, focusing on skill development and the importance of education to break the cycle of poverty.
Provide scholarships and resources to support girls’ education and facilitate their access to secondary and higher education.
Working Together for Greater Impact
We collaborate with local organizations, government agencies, and international NGOs to share resources, expertise, and support systems.
By engaging with community leaders and influencers, we work to break down stigma and promote understanding around the challenges faced by marginalized women — especially related to gender-based violence (GBV).