About Us

Behind the organization are people with a history, values, and a shared goal: to empower and support women in the Waldviertel region.

Site Map

"Not a female future—
—but a human future."

— Johanna Dohnal

Our Mission Statement

About Us

Since 1991, we have been working on a nonprofit basis, independent of any political party or religious denomination, to support women and girls in the Waldviertel region. As a counseling, educational, and training organization, we support women in various life situations—with professional expertise, experience, and a respectful approach.

Solidarity

Women advise women, on equal terms and with mutual understanding.

Equality

We highlight inequalities and advocate for equal opportunity.

Networking

Rooted in the region, with national and international connections.

Our Values

Our work is characterized by clear structures, collaborative leadership, and personal responsibility. We create safe spaces where women can share experiences, seek advice, and develop new perspectives.

We are working toward a society where background or gender do not lead to disadvantage—a society free from stereotypes, power imbalances, and discrimination.

Our History

Currently, more than 40 employees work at the Waldviertel Women’s Counseling Center (both full-time and part-time) in the four Waldviertel district capitals of Zwettl, Gmünd, Horn, and Waidhofen an der Thaya. They are active in the field of labor market policy—providing counseling, training, and skills development—as well as in the psychosocial sector and in housing projects.

Women in charge

Chairwoman

Martha Weber

I studied history, international gender studies, and feminist politics in Vienna, as well as wood technology and timber construction in Salzburg. Since the 1980s, I have been actively involved—both professionally and as a volunteer—in women’s and regional political issues in the northern Waldviertel region.
From 1998 to 2010, I worked at “telm@ – Women in Telecommunications and Computer Science” as a course instructor, program developer, and executive director. In my academic work, I focused on gender stereotyping in career paths and the professional self-image of women in IT.

Vice Chairwoman

Daniela Weissensteiner

For many years, I worked with women as a staff member at the Waldviertel Women’s Counseling Center—work to which I remain deeply committed to this day and which I now continue in my role on the board. My motivation remains the same: I want to empower women, support them in challenging life situations, and encourage them to chart their own course.

psychosocial counselor

Ingrid Ratheiser

As a psychosocial counselor, entrepreneur, and mother of three, I have found my true calling in social work.
Counseling women, in particular, is very close to my heart. Equality, feminism, and social justice are core values that shape the way I think, feel, and act.

Coordinating Leadership Team

Alexandra Lindtner

Birgit Stangl

Edda Moser-Hofbauer

Anna Haneder

Clarity grows step by step.

We're here to help you untangle the chaos and get back on your feet, one step at a time.

Together we discover new perspectives.

No matter how complex your situation may seem, there are always options and solutions. Our counselors will support you with their expertise and empathy as you take the lead in planning your next steps.