YWCA is the oldest and largest multicultural women’s organization in the world, with more than 25 million members across the globe in 106 countries, including 2.6 million members and participants in 300 local associations in the United States.

 

More important than the numbers, is our mission to eliminate racism and empower women. We provide safe places for women and girls, build strong women leaders, and advocate for women’s rights and civil rights in Congress.

 

Women come to YWCAs in times of crisis, as survivors of rape or domestic violence. They come for job training and career counseling. They come for childcare. They come for health and fitness. They come for a variety of reasons. But they come. And they leave with a renewed spirit, new skills, and stronger lives.

 

YWCA Evanston/North Shore’s roots stretch back to the 1930s. We started as a place that provided safe housing and support for young women coming to the city to work. Our programs and services have continually evolved to meet the changing needs of the communities we serve.

 

YWCA Evanston/North Shore is a social justice organization whose mission is to eliminate racism and empower women. Everything we do is based on the belief that all women have the right to be safe and choose the direction of their lives.

 

Our programs address the fact that far too many women 1) experience violence, and 2) lack economic security, and these issues disproportionately impact women of color. If we want to empower all women, we must also tackle racism.

 

We help women build safety, stability and security through direct service, training, and education. This includes housing and support services for domestic violence survivors, financial education, housing assistance, employment support, and programs that support health and well-being.

When all women are able to reach their full potential, our communities thrive.