Dear Friend of the YWCA,
Our YWCA doors proudly opened in 1918 and are still proudly open today. When I reflect that we have been operating by providing services and resources to the community for 90 years, I am in awe at the commitment that our members, board members, staff, donors and community partners have made through the years to keep us vibrant and alive.
What is also special about 2008 is that the YWCA of the USA is celebrating another historic birthday – 150! Yes the YWCA of the USA is 150 years old. The YWCA is the oldest woman’s organization in the United States and has a long legacy – just like our own Association of being at the forefront of most of the major social justice movements. From race relations, to labor union representation, the first, second and third cycles of the women’s movement and of course the empowerment of women and girls, the YWCA has been there to advocate and champion these causes that changed and improved the American landscape.
As we are on the cusp of a historic presidential election – whether it’s a woman or an African American man as the nominee – we take great pride in knowing that as a national movement we have added to that collective being by ensuring that all women and people of color get access to resources and services they need to be successful and empowered.
Clearly the YWCA through the years has been a model of action and service with young women leading the charge. It is our hope as an association to continue that work and engage young women to become leaders and give girls models to look up to. As we celebrate both of these historic birthdays we know that it is much more than just a birthday – it’s our birthright – to teach, share, and show what it means to be a woman leader and fighter to all of our young people. It’s also about continuing to provide services in a downturn economy – to continue the outreach and support needed for all women and girls.
We will be celebrating this momentous occasion in a variety of ways including a big celebration in mid autumn. The event will be geared toward families and most likely will be a giant picnic with a historical perspective on our years in the greater Harbor Area.
We hope you can join us in some way during this celebration and beyond.
Sincerely Yours,
Silissa Uriarte Smith
Executive Director