YWCA Lancaster is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Darrien Davenport (He/Him/His) as our new Chief Mission Officer. With a remarkable career spanning over twenty-five years, Dr. Davenport brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
A native of Philadelphia, PA, Dr. Davenport’s professional journey has been rooted in higher education and corporate America, with nearly two decades dedicated to fostering multiculturalism and promoting social justice. His most recent role was as a consultant in the Education Market for WittKieffer, a global leadership solutions firm. Prior to that, he made significant contributions at Gettysburg College, where he served in various leadership capacities, including Interim Chief Diversity Officer, Assistant Vice President of College Life, Assistant Secretary to the Board of Trustees, and Executive Director of Multicultural Engagement.
Dr. Davenport’s dedication to education and community engagement is evident in his extensive work on issues related to diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, access, and belonging. His expertise extends beyond administration to include training and development, executive coaching, and academia. He has taught courses on multiculturalism at both the graduate and undergraduate levels, and is a sought-after speaker and author on topics such as leadership, gender equity, self-esteem, and body image.
Stacie Blake, CEO of YWCA Lancaster, expressed her enthusiasm about Dr. Davenport joining the team: “We are honored to welcome Dr. Davenport to the YWCA Lancaster family. His extensive experience and unwavering dedication to the principles of equity and justice make him an invaluable addition to our organization. We look forward to the positive impact he will have on our mission and the communities we serve.”
Dr. Davenport holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from West Chester University, a Master of Science degree in Leadership and Business Ethics from Duquesne University, and a Doctor of Education from Northeastern University. He currently resides in Harrisburg, PA, with his family.
As Chief Mission Officer, Dr. Davenport will lead YWCA Lancaster’s efforts to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. His leadership will be instrumental in advancing our commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive community. We are excited to embark on this journey with him and look forward to the transformative work ahead.
Please join us in welcoming Dr. Darrien Davenport to YWCA Lancaster!
Black Artist Waystation 2024: Elevating Creative Careers in Lancaster
YWCA Lancaster is proud to announce its 2024 Black Artist Waystation awardees, joining a community-run collective of artists celebrating and uplifting the Black experience. The Black Artist Waystation is a groundbreaking initiative designed to propel artists in Lancaster to new heights in their professional and artistic endeavors. This platform empowers artists to demonstrate their vision for the next stage of their careers while using their art to make an impact on the Lancaster community. This year’s Black Artist Waystation was the most competitive process yet! Awardees exemplify the program’s mission, exhibit a wealth of talent, and are ready to take the next step in their artistic journey.
A Multifaceted Approach
The Black Artist Waystation welcomes artists from diverse mediums, including but not limited to painting, sculpture, design, literature, music, theater, and multidisciplinary arts. The theme of this year’s program is “Revolutionary Aesthetics.” Artists will create works that express their current aesthetic alongside the current climate in America. Participants in the program join a community of fellow artists in Lancaster, receive a $2,500 grant, and gain access to a network of valuable opportunities.
Mentorship and Community Engagement
Participants receive mentorship from seasoned artists and have the opportunity to showcase their work to the community. Black artists, who have historically been pivotal figures in liberation movements and cultural historians in their communities, play a central role in this initiative.
Evita Colon, known by her stage name PoeticSoulQueen, is a multi-hyphenate creative entrepreneur who alchemizes the many titles of poet, lyricist, playwright, creative director, cultural savant and consultant, and Lancaster City’s first Poet Laureate into soulfully captivating experiences. She is also the creative alchemist behind Speak to My Soul LLC, BLK Voices Magazine, and A Concrete Rose. Her soulful and raw spoken word have led her to credits with musical legends such as Common and DJ Jazzy Jeff and opening acts for Marsha Ambrosius and Eric Benet. She has expanded her impactful reach onto international platforms as a member of The Floacist’s International FLO Poets collective based in London and The Recording Academy. Evita pays her creative knowledge and experience forward through the Soul Tribe, a BIPOC centered artist collective which focuses on developing and building community with artists while providing them with advocacy and resources in their creative careers. Her entrepreneurial prowess has led to brand collaborations with Sprite Inc., Express Inc., and appearances in Black Girls Rock! digital, Times Square and the New York Times. Evita has received numerous accolades, including the NAACP Presidential Social Justice Award, Optimist Club Humanitarian Award, JP McCaskey Distinguished Alumni Award and YWCA Women of Achievement Award, and continues to use her creativity as a catalyst for change.
Ode to Hip-Hop
As a native of Lancaster City, my art is the imperative inclusion of the past, present and future voices of Lancaster. I am a reflection of the parts of Lancaster that are not often amplified when promoting the beauty of the city. For youth to see me, learn about my origins and see where I am now, they can also see themselves from a liberated and empowered place. My art is representation for many people who may feel alone or are seeking to harness the power of their own voice. I want my work to inspire others to tell their story with confidence. It is revolutionary as it seeks to empower others to liberate themselves and others through the power of their own stories.
RJ Scott
I stumbled upon Lancaster while attending school here at the Pennsylvania College of Art and Design. Falling in love with the creativity and uniqueness of the city, I’ve begun to explore it more and more. I aim to create work that encompasses the black experience in America. Combining elements of photography, traditional art, and digital art to achieve that goal.
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When I found out about the Black Artist Waystation, I was somewhat skeptical. As I’ve begun to navigate the art world, I find it rare to see people that look like me in the room. It was so refreshing to become part of something so important and groundbreaking. As an artist, I long to make an impact with my work. Being able to create something for a creative and welcoming community is something that I don’t take lightly. Programs like this help us to become a part of that community.
Blake Showers
Blake Showers is an Illustrator and creative director from Birmingham, AL, who focuses on character design and world-building. He works digitally and traditionally and uses acrylics, inks, pencil, and spray paint for works. The main subjects in his art have elements of manga, hip-hop, graffiti, sci-fi, and horror. His art depicts the Black experience and his upbringing in the South. He has recently been getting into beat production which has helped to express his feelings even further along with visual art.
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I would like my work to art to make an impact in Lancaster because there are so many voices and cultures here that should be heard. I hope that my work inspires others to use their callings to make their stories heard as well. I was very shy during the beginning of my art career and being able to tell my experiences and make things that I enjoy helped me break out of my comfort zone and be able to be my fullest self.
Brandon Webb
As a multidisciplinary artist, I’ve always found inspiration in the intersection of visual and auditory mediums. With a background in photography, filmmaking, music, and graphic design, my creative journey has been defined by a relentless pursuit of storytelling through diverse artistic expressions. From capturing the raw emotion of a moment with my camera to composing melodic narratives that resonate with the soul, each facet of my work is imbued with a profound sense of purpose and passion. Through my art, I strive to bridge the gap between reality and imagination, inviting viewers to explore the depths of human experience and connect with the world in meaningful ways.
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Lancaster holds a special place in my heart, not just as a geographical location, but as a vibrant community teeming with untold stories waiting to be discovered. My desire to make an impact on Lancaster through my art stems from a deep-seated belief in the transformative power of creativity. By weaving together the fabric of visual and auditory elements, I aim to shine a spotlight on the beauty, complexity, and diversity of life in Lancaster. Whether through captivating photographs that capture the essence of the city, thought-provoking films that challenge the status quo, soul-stirring music that evokes emotion, or innovative graphic designs that spark conversation, my goal is to foster a sense of unity, empathy, and understanding within the Lancaster community and beyond.
Join Us This Summer
Meet and Greet
We invite you to support these talented artists by attending our Meet and Greet event this summer. This will be an opportunity to connect with the artists, learn about their creative processes, and explore some of their work firsthand.
Final Showcase
Another way to support our artists is to attend our final showcase where the artists will present their completed projects to the community. This will be a celebration of creativity, diversity, and the power of art to inspire change.
Dates will be announced soon, so stay tuned!
We are thrilled to showcase the talents of these artists and the work of past Black Artist Waystation participants throughout Lancaster County. YWCA Lancaster is committed to supporting and inspiring the next generation of Black artists, ensuring that their voices are heard, and their contributions celebrated.
Together, let’s continue to uplift and empower the arts in Lancaster.
As Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) comes to a close, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on the impact we’ve made together in raising awareness and supporting survivors. At YWCA Lancaster, our commitment to ending sexual violence and creating a safer community for all is unwavering. Here’s a recap of the key moments and messages from our SAAM campaign:
Spreading Awareness, Empowering Change
Throughout the month, we’ve worked tirelessly to spread awareness about the prevalence of sexual assault and the resources available to survivors. Our events, awareness campaigns, and educational workshops have reached hundreds in our community, empowering individuals with knowledge and tools to combat sexual violence.
Coffee Sleeve Awareness Campaign
Throughout the month, 12 local coffee shops and restaurants distributed YWCA Lancaster coffee sleeves with our 24-hour Sexual Assault Hotline phone number. This is a valuable resource that patrons can use in the future. The coffee shops included: Front Porch Baking Co., Geneva Bakery Café, Dosie Dough, Roasted Rooster Coffee Company, Gracie’s on West Main, Griddle & Grind Cafe, Chestnut Hill, Square One, LaDolce Vita, Bistro Barbaret and Bakery, Endo Cafe, and Rachel’s Creperie.
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This April, we partnered with local hospitals for our Teal Ribbon Campaign. Our goal was to provide teal ribbons for staff to wear throughout the month in support of victim survivors. These ribbons are a great tool for spreading awareness and sparking important conversations. Thank you Penn State Health Lancaster Medical Center, UPMC Pinnacle, and WellSpan Health Ephrata Community Hospital for your support of our teal ribbon campaign. Together, we can make a difference.
Teal Ribbon Campaign
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Community Engagement and Support
Every action counts in our mission and this year our community showed up to support. This April, three local municipalities proclaimed April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This is crucial to our mission as we are spreading awareness on a county-wide scale. This helps us to engage with our community on a broader scope and show our solidarity with survivors. The support from our community has been incredible, and we’re grateful for everyone who has joined us in this important cause.
SAAM Proclamations: City of Lancaster, Columbia Borough, Lititz Borough
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Education and Awareness
This month, we hosted a children’s book reading series and an adult book club gathering with out Center for Racial and Gender Equity’s Dorothy Height Social Justice Club. Educating our community is a priority for us. It is important to teach children the importance of self-love, boundaries, and consent from an early age. We must work to create a safer tomorrow for the next generations and end sexual violence.
Throughout the month, we hosted book readings at the Lancaster Public Library, Pocket Books Shop, and Aarons Books to provide an educational opportunity for the youth of our community. These books taught young ones about self love, personal safety, and the importance of boundaries.
Children’s Book Readings
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Moving Forward Together
Our commitment to survivors doesn’t end with SAAM. As we move forward, we’re dedicated to providing ongoing support and resources for survivors and working to create a culture of consent and respect in our community. We invite everyone to join us in this mission.
How You Can Help
You can make a difference in the fight against sexual violence. Whether it’s donating, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness, your support fuels our mission. Together, we can create a safer, more supportive environment for all.
As we close out Sexual Assault Awareness Month, let’s keep the momentum going. Let’s continue to stand together, support survivors, and work towards a future free from sexual violence. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this important journey. Together, we can make a difference.
If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to us at YWCA Lancaster. We’re here for you, 24/7.
April marked a pivotal month as four esteemed YWCA CEOs journeyed to the Capitol in Harrisburg, united by a shared vision of empowerment and social justice.
Leading the path of PA YWs were CEOs Angela Reynolds of YWCA Greater Pittsburgh, Kim Bracey of YWCA York, Stacie Blake of YWCA Lancaster, and Stacey Woodland of YWCA Tri-County Area. Together, they brought with them a wealth of experience, passion, and determination to effect meaningful change. Their mission was clear: to amplify the important voices of PA YWCAs, build important relationships, and bridge the gap between activism and state-level policymaking. They share a commitment to fostering mutual education and exploring potential partnerships between YWCAs and state legislators.
They created a great opportunity to advocate for policies that uplifted marginalized communities, to champion initiatives that promoted gender equity and racial justice, and to amplify the voices of those often overlooked.
Pennsylvania currently hosts 18 YWCAs, with an average length of service in each community of over 100 years. A priority for the CEOs was growth and expansion throughout the state to work toward eliminating racism and empowering women in Pennsylvania.
Some goals of the day included:
Advancing racial justice and gender equity
Women’s Economic Security
Affordable Childcare
Reproductive justice and healthcare access
Strengthening the YWCA’s Impact throughout the state
Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus
Senator Schwank & Senator Cappelletti – Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus
The CEOs met with Senator Judith L. Schwank (D-Berks County) and Senator Amanda Cappelletti (D-Delaware & Montgomery Counties), co-chairs of the Women’s Health Caucus. With the common ground of their commitment to empowering women, meeting with the co-chairs was a fantastic opportunity to discuss enhanced access to reproductive healthcare, mental health support, and comprehensive care for women across Pennsylvania.
A partnership could help to tackle issues related to housing security, economic barriers faced by women and closing education disparities among women and girls. By focusing on these areas, the YWCA and the Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus can establish a powerful partnership that not only aligns with the shared missions but also amplifies their impact of promoting the health, well-being, and empowerment of women across Pennsylvania.
Representative Daley – Pennsylvania Women’s Health Caucus
In a meeting with Representative Mary Jo Daley (D-Montgomery County), co-chair of the Women’s Health Caucus, the YWCAs were able to identify their shared goals and missions to effect positive change. This is especially important in areas where their interests intersect.
YWCAs shared their priorities with Daley such as women’s access to health care and declaring healthcare a public health crisis. They discussed black mortality rates in Pennsylvania and the need for support in areas of the state where “OBGYN deserts” exist. With their shared mission of empowering women, these two entities could unite and use their voices to expand healthcare services for women across the state.
Senator Haywood – State of Black Pennsylvania Report & YWCA Mission
Next, the YWCAs met with Senator Art Haywood (D-Montgomery & Philadelphia Counties). The goal of meeting with Senator Haywood was to build a relationship and begin an open dialogue about how the State of Black Pennsylvania report and its recommendations might overlay with the mission of YWCAs.
The State of Black Pennsylvania Reportwas released by Senator Haywood in February 2023 and provides a comprehensive analysis of the socio-economic mobility of Black Pennsylvanians from 2010 to 2021. The report’s recommendations include establishing equitable school funding, supporting Black entrepreneurship, improving access to healthcare, and replacing the school-to-prison pipeline with opportunity pathways.
YWCAs have a great opportunity to work with Senator Haywood on initiatives aimed at many facets of positive change within the Black community. With the YWCA focus on eliminating racism and empowering women, there are shared goals of creating and supporting educational programs and opportunities, economic empowerment, Black heath and wellbeing, and housing and community support. With studies conducted throughout the state, such as the Equity Profile of Lancaster County, YWCAs could use their unique perspectives and collective voices to support and advocate for legislation and policies that benefit the Black community in Pennsylvania.
Executive Director Hathaway – Governor’s Advisory Commission on Women
In the final meeting of the day, YWCA CEOs met with Moriah Hathaway, Executive Director of the Governor’s Advisory Commission on Women. Hathaway and the Governor’s Advisory Commission serve as an extension of the Governor’s office in their respective communities. YWCAs discussed ways to strengthen their ties to state government and enhance their abilities to help shape policy recommendations on issues affecting Pennsylvania women such as issues related to gender-based violence, economic empowerment, healthcare access, and more.
By connecting to Hathaway, YWCA CEOs can amplify their advocacy efforts and ensure that the unique perspectives and needs of women and girls, particularly those served by YWCAs, are heard and prioritized in state policymaking decisions.
Building Bridges
Through their collective wisdom and varying points of view, these CEOs displayed the true power of collaboration. This meeting of regional YWCAs was only the beginning of a broader movement, a call to action for all who believe in the power of unity, compassion, and progress. Across party lines and organizational boundaries, they made connections that would lay the groundwork for future partnerships, building a foundation for a more just and equitable society.
Special thanks to Christian Muniz, YWCA Lancaster supporter and friend, always ready to help with relationship building!
Click here to learn more about YWCA’s Advocacy Agenda and ways to take social action and advocate for the advancement of our mission!
YWCA Lancaster’s Childhood Trauma Care Conference hosted by the Sexual Assault Prevention and Counseling Center brought together over 150 professionals, advocates, and community members to explore innovative approaches and strategies for supporting individuals impacted by childhood trauma.
Our keynote speaker was the Commonwealth Victim Advocate of Pennsylvania, Suzanne Estrella from the Pennsylvania Office of Victim Advocate. In her opening session she shared information about growth and fostering a safe supportive space for children. If you yourself have not experienced childhood trauma, she said “then it can be difficult to really wrap your head around what that feels like to that child.”
Breakout sessions included topics such as: supporting LGBTQ+ youth, self-care for individuals in social service professions, learning the basics of ACEs, commercial exploitation of youth, and more. Professionals, advocates, and community members had the opportunity to hear from experts in their fields and really dive in to key topics around childhood trauma. While professionals and other attendees may be familiar with some of the topics presented, many were there to build a foundational understanding of childhood trauma. YWCA Lancaster CEO Stacie Blake shared that
“I think all of us are growing in our knowledge of trauma and the impacts of trauma, particularly on children.”
Understanding Childhood Trauma
Sessions took an insightful exploration of the various forms of childhood trauma and their long-term effects on mental health and well-being. Presenters delved into the latest research, shedding light on the importance of early intervention and creating trauma-informed spaces.
Trauma-Informed Practices
Speakers emphasized the need for trauma-informed practices in various settings, from schools and healthcare to community organizations. Workshops and discussions provided practical strategies for implementing these approaches, ensuring that professionals and advocates can create safe and supportive environments for children and adults alike.
Intersectionality and Trauma
A crucial aspect was addressing trauma through an intersectional lens. Presenters explored how factors such as race, gender, sexuality, and socioeconomic status intersect with trauma, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by individuals with multiple marginalized identities.
Building Resilience
A central focus of the conference was resilience-building strategies that promote healing and empowerment among trauma survivors. Speakers shared evidence-based approaches such as trauma-informed therapy, and mindfulness techniques emphasizing the importance of fostering strengths and protective factors in individuals’ journeys toward recovery.
Community Collaboration
Collaboration was a recurring theme throughout the conference, highlighting the essential role of community partnerships in addressing childhood trauma. A panel discussion featuring law enforcement officials and social service providers shed light on the importance of a collective commitment to creating trauma-responsive systems of support. YWCA Lancaster’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Counseling Center Director, Mandy Billman, stated that
“YWCA Lancaster is proud to partner and engage with local experts in their fields. The collaborations are crucial in supporting children through their trauma and keeping kids in Lancaster County safe.”
YWCA Lancaster’s Childhood Trauma Care Conference provided a safe space for dialogue, collaboration, and action in advancing trauma-informed care practices. By empowering individuals, fostering resilience, and promoting community collaboration, attendees left inspired and equipped to make meaningful contributions to the well-being of trauma survivors and their communities.
As we continue on this journey, let us remain committed to fostering a culture of empathy, empowerment, and growth in our collective efforts to address childhood trauma and promote healing for all.
Keep the movement growing
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month! We have a lots of programming planned all month long to raise awareness, build community, and uplift survivors. Learn more below!
In June of 2023, Alexis learned about a life-changing opportunity—the New Choices Career Development Program offered by YWCA Lancaster. Little did she know that this no-cost course would pave the way for a transformative journey.
From day one, Alexis approached the program with determination, attending every session and successfully completing the intensive three-week course, but her success didn’t stop there. In a recent post-course follow-up, she shared news of her newfound position as a manager at a local retail store and her plans to further her education in digital marketing.
What makes Alexis’s story truly inspiring is the collaborative effort of various organizations that rallied behind her aspirations. Thanks to the support from New Choices, funding from the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), and the Listrak In A Pinch fund, Alexis found herself on a path to success with zero out-of-pocket expenses for the program.
“I have always had the goal to return to school and receive my Marketing degree or certification and because of help from Deb and the YWCA, I have a brand new resumé, a new job, and can attend schooling for Digital Marketing with a brand-new laptop! Thank you, New Choices Lancaster, for your support throughout this journey in my life.”
If you’ve ever contemplated starting your educational journey but found yourself in need of the right tools and support, know that you’re not alone. The New Choices Career Development Program at YWCA Lancaster is ready to assist individuals just like you. If you or someone you know is ready to pursue their dreams but lack the tools to do so, reach out to the YWCA Lancaster’s New Choices Career Development Program. By sharing this information within your network, you might be instrumental in helping someone else turn their aspirations into reality!
Let’s spread the word, share the opportunities, and collectively empower more dreams to take flight. Our next session begins this Tuesday, March 5th, at YWCA Lancaster. For more information and to sign-up today, visit YWCALancaster.org!
The In a Pinch Fund at the YWCA Lancaster has been made possible through a generous gift from Listrak, fulfilling a desire to give back to the communities where their employees live and work.
It is our desire that the fund will carry on its original vision, help women on their path to success, help combat racism, and write this region’s own success stories.
Ashley is a young wife and mother who was referred to New Choices by our partner, Patients R Waiting, through her doula Lydia, who also happens to be New Choices’ wonderfully awesome Program Assistant & Case Manager.
She started classes in September with a goal of becoming a nurse but was unsure how she was going to afford school and also concerned about the amount of time it would take. With the help of Deb and Lydia she developed a plan for her long-term goal and first on the list was to complete a short-term certificate program in the health care field. She was referred to Tec Centro’s Phlebotomy class. She started classes in October 23 and successfully passed her certification on 12/19. She immediately called Lydia and Deb to share her wonderful news and also shared that she got the highest score in her class.
Her future plans are to work for Penn State Health and work towards a nursing degree. She has also referred her husband to the New Choices program because they made the choice as a family to get her started on her career while he stayed at home with their one-year-old daughter.
If you’ve ever dreamed of changing careers, you’re certainly not alone. Thinking of making a change but aren’t sure where to begin, reach out to YWCA Lancaster’s New Choices Career Development Program. With New Choices, we can assist you in finding a new direction and help plan your next steps. Simply fill out the form below to receive more information!
It’s the perfect time to clean out your closet, give it a seasonal refresh, and support YWCA Lancaster! While you’re sorting through your clothing, consider the benefits of donating your used items to Community Aid. Not only does this declutter your space, but it also contributes to a sustainable fashion cycle and supports the work that YWCA Lancaster does in our community. Donate to Community Aid and get your closet ready for a new look!
How it works:
Take eligible new or gently used items to any Community Aid location.
Provide YWCA Lancaster’s Partner Number: #50166, when dropping off donations.
YWCA Lancaster will receive proceeds for each pound donated.
Community Aid partners with hundreds of local nonprofit organizations in our communities by donating a percentage of sales and products to support their neighbors in need. At Community Air, you can shop knowing that your purchase will be fairly priced, encourage sustainability, and strengthen our local communities.
Many community members and businesses make end-of-year giving an opportunity to support their community and support organizations that align with their values and priorities. At YWCA Lancaster, we believe in the feeling of connection and a sense of purpose that is achieved when we support something bigger than ourselves. It’s what the season of giving is built on — creating connections by supporting our neighbors and community.
Nonprofits depend on monetary gifts to make our work possible and we are grateful for those and gifts of any kind. At YWCA Lancaster and across the nonprofit sector, we also see this time of year as an opportunity to connect with others and reflect on what we value and find meaningful in our communities. Through giving, in any means and form, a positive impact is created for those around us. By connecting with the community in new ways, we may find a passion or purpose that we support throughout the new year and possibly a lifetime.
If you need help getting started, a great way to connect with the community is through the work we do at YWCA Lancaster. Supporting us could come in a variety of ways from monetary gifts, to following us on social media and helping to spread awareness of the work we do and our holiday-giving needs! Our many departments also have needs this time of year and with every gift given you are supporting the work we do in the community and creating a lasting impact.
Last year, with the help of the community we were able to make the holiday season even more special for the many individuals and community members we serve, and with your help we can make this season even brighter!
Below are some items needed for our programs at YWCA Lancaster. We welcome all gifts but are only able to accept new unused items.
Sexual Assault Prevention and Counseling Center
Comfortable clothing for survivors- especially all genders and/or larger sizes- sweatpants, sweatshirts, hoodies
Underwear and sports bras-especially larger sizes, all genders
Travel shower products-shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wipes, etc.
Fidget toys/ coloring supplies for use at the hospital
Kepler Hall Residence
Shelf stable foods such as cereal, rice, soup, pasta, sauce
New twin size sheet sets; blanket, comforters, and towel sets.
New personal hygiene products for women, men, or children. Body wash, shampoo and conditioner-for multi-textural hair, razors, toothpaste, combs, lotion, etc.
Center for Racial and Gender Equity
Non-perishable snack or gift card to grocery stores for community Racial Equity Trainings and Racial Equity Action group meeting
We are thankful for the support of our community and our mission of eliminating racism and empowering women and hope that this giving season is a special one for all!
For more information please fill out the form below or reach out to Nancy O’Halloran, Chief Development Officer, at nohalloran@ywcalancaster.org or 717-344-2710.
Donation drop-off is available at YWCA Lancaster from 8am-5pm!
Partner with YWCA Lancaster to help continue our day-to-day operations and needed programming. Give a gift using our website to support our Kepler Hall Residence Program, Sexual Assault Response, Racial Equity Program, the YWonderful Kids Childcare Program or Where Needed Most.
In 1970, YWCA’s across the nation passed the One Imperative: a declaration that the most important priority for our associations to focus on to empower women wasthe elimination of racism, where ever it exists, by any means necessary. More than 50 years later, we are still pursuing that imperative, but we need your voice, your insights, and your dedication to help shape our work moving forward.
What is your imperative? What drives you and inspires you to build a just future? Your imperatives are what keeps our mission emergent, dynamic, and steadfast in the face of headwinds at all levels of our society.
We’re inviting you to share your imperative to help shape our work– it could be “affordable housing” or “supporting survivors”, “good quality jobs” or “thriving wages”. Whatever it is that drives you to build a just future, we want to support that work, as we always have, since 1889.
Check out what your community has been saying below, and submit your Imperative today! And be sure to give EXTRA to YWCA Lancaster on November 17!
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