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Lancaster, Pa. (June 3, 2021) – The Black Artist Waystation focuses on Black artists in visual, performance, or spoken word, highlighting the breath of creativity in our community.  Twenty-eight Lancaster Artivists were nominated with four Exemplars each receiving $500 honorariums this year.  The full program of display is happening this upcoming Juneteenth! Here are the 2021 Black […]

It’s been a year since we learned of and watched the murder of George Floyd in Minnesota. The act in that midwestern state moved the world and millions marched, cried, demanded and promised. We remember his family and particularly his young daughter. Her life will be marked not only by the painful loss of her […]

Cheryl Gahring’s family wishes to pass along their sincerest appreciation for the outpouring of love and memories shared. It brings comfort during a most difficult time. In keeping with the family’s wishes, a private burial is planned. A Celebration of Life memorial at the YWCA Lancaster will be planned and more information will be shared […]

It is with great sadness, grief, and heartbreak we share the loss of our colleague, Cheryl Gahring.  Cheryl was part of YWCA Lancaster for over fourteen years. In that time, she served in several roles culminating in Chief Impact Officer.  Cheryl truly lived our mission.  Her passion, commitment and love were reflected in our programs, relationships with residents, children and staff, the building projects, indeed the entire agency.  She most recently persevered through this time of pandemic by searching for program funding; […]

On Sunday, April 11, Daunte Wright was fatally shot in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, about 10 miles from where Derek Chauvin is on trial for the killing of George Floyd. YWCA Lancaster extends our condolences to Mr. Wright’s family, and every family impacted by these senseless deaths.  We know statements alone will not make change but […]

Lancaster, Pa. (April 2, 2021) YWCA Lancaster will be launching a 21 Day Racial Equity and Social Justice Challenge starting May 24, 2021 as part of a national movement to engage communities in anti-racist work. Participants receive a daily email directing them to 3-4 curated activities such as reading an article, listening to a podcast, […]

YWCA Lancaster is devastated by the loss of eight lives, six of whom were Asian women, murdered in a series of spa shootings on Tuesday, March 16 in Georgia. This tragedy reflects hate against Asians, against women, and against immigrants in America. Let it be known, this is not the first instance of anti-Asian violence. […]

Born and raised in Dauphin County, Deborah Wilson Gadsden has worked in child welfare for nearly half a century. In December, she became the first Black woman to chair the YWCA Lancaster board of directors. When granted the opportunity to chat with her, I began by asking what her greatest passion was, personally as well […]

Lancaster, Pa. (February 11, 2021) – A historic first in Lancaster; a focus on Black artists in visual, performance, or spoken word.  The Black Artist Waystation will highlight the breath of creativity in our community with three Exemplars receiving $500 honorariums.  A full program of display will happen Juneteenth of 2021. When: February 15, 6-8pm, Black Artist […]

Lancaster, Pa. (January 21, 2021) – YWCA Lancaster welcomes seven new members to the Board of Directors with three-year terms. The mission of the agency is to eliminate racism and empower women. The elected members are an impressive group of women, selected among dozens of community business and civic leaders referred for the openings this […]