Blogs

January 18, 2019

We are pleased to provide the following updates:

Federal Shutdown May Impact YWCA Program Funding

The current federal government shutdown is the longest in history and unfunded agencies are beginning to suspend processing for grant programs that YWCAs across the country rely on. Take a look at this Federal Shutdown Funding Memo with information on the shutdown’s effect on programs, and read this new statement from YWCA USA CEO Alejandra Y. Castillo about the shutdown.

YWCA USA wants to support you. Complete this brief survey to help us better understand the scope of the shutdown’s impact on the YWCA network and the extent of financial distress the shutdown may be causing for individual YWCAs. We’ll use this information to evaluate how YWCA USA can best support local YWCAs through this situation, as well as in our federal advocacy regarding the shutdown.

YWCA USA Leads a Women’s Community Letter to Congress

YWCA USA and partners from 63 national, state, and local organizations in the women’s advocacy community sent a letter to Members of Congress on January 16th, urging action on the key needs and concerns of women and girls. This letter highlighted legislation that directly addresses women’s needs and concerns regarding equal pay and workplace fairness, violence prevention, health care and reproductive rights, and equity, safety, and opportunity for marginalized people and communities. Moreover, we urge the 116th Congress to chart a path forward that opens doors, breaks down barriers, and rejects policies that undermine opportunities for women and girls to succeed. Read more about the legislation Congress can support NOW to build the foundation of a more fair, just and equal nation with opportunity for all.

Advocacy Actions of the Week

• Learn More About Our *NEW* Policy and Advocacy Agenda and Priorities: Watch (or rewatch!) our deep dive webinar into the Public Policy and Advocacy Agenda. Take a look at this 2019-2020 Policy and Advocacy Agenda Memo for the full agenda and explanation.
• Join Women’s Marches around the country TOMORROW and use our toolkit: The Women’s March is TOMORROW and we are excited to help you prepare for your local YWCA to turn up and turn out! YWCA USA has prepared a Women’s March toolkit which includes tips to keep in mind as you prepare for the march, downloadable signs for you to print, and guidance for how to follow up the march with continued action in your community. Feel free to contact Asha Kuziwa, Field Organizer, at akuziwa@ywca.org if you have questions or need additional support!

Martin Luther King Day 2019

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

As we celebrate the life of legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., a man who lived his life in service to others, we at YWCA know the importance of giving back to those in our communities. As you all prepare for your day of service events at your local YWCA, we encourage you all to welcome those who have been severely impacted by this government shut down. Over 800,000 federal workers and their families, as well as countless individuals and families who rely on services and support from the federal government, have been severely altered because of this senseless shutdown. YWCA has been serving women, families, and communities for the past 160 years, and we won’t stop now. This MLK Day of Service, let’s all be intentional and support those who are especially hurting during this time.

YWCA 101 Coming up!

Our next YWCA 101 webinar is set for Tuesday, February 12 at 2 p.m. ET. This is a great opportunity for local association staff and board members to learn all about the YWCA in just one hour! Topics include:

• Our rich history and legacy
• Our Mission Impact Framework
• Our national scale and reach
• 2019 initiatives, including an update on our new business plan
• Upcoming events, including the June National Conference in Washington, D.C.
• Qualities associated with highly successful associations
• Resources and tools available to support local association leaders

The session is both inspiring and informational. We hope you will join us! Register now.

2019 Call for YWCA USA Board of Director Nominations

There is still time to nominate leaders who you think fit our values and vision for the YWCA USA board of directors. All nomination submissions must be emailed to boardnominations@ywca.org by close of business on Thursday, January 31. Learn more in the board nomination packet, which includes a "fillable" nomination form to assist candidates in providing the requested information.

Important Dates

• January 19: 2019 Women’s March
• January 21: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• January 30 at 3:00 p.m. ET: Policy Priorities Monthly Webinar
• January 31: YWCA USA board of directors nominations deadline
• February 12 at 2:00 p.m. ET: YWCA 101
• April 25-28: Stand Against Racism 2019

Questions about what you read today? Contact communications@ywca.org.