This report provides comprehensive data to assess the progress of women and girls in West
Virginia and identify places where additional improvements are still needed. The report analyzes
issues that profoundly affect the lives of women and girls in the state, including employment,
earnings, and education; economic security and poverty; and health and
well-being. The report also tracks trends in progress in West Virginia (between 2000 and
2010) by comparing its findings with the 2002 report, The Status of Women in West Virginia
(IWPR 2002). In addition, the report examines the status of women and girls in five regions
of the state (Northern Panhandle, North Central, Eastern Panhandle, South Central, and
Southern) as well as in the nation as a whole. The data on women’s and girls’ status that it
presents can serve as a resource for advocates, community leaders, policymakers, and other
stakeholders who seek to develop community investments, program initiatives, and public
policies that will lead to positive change for women and girls in West Virginia and the nation
as a whole.