At NEMC’s December Holiday Luncheon, Policy Committee Chair Elizabeth Bald introduced representatives of the Evanston YWCA who described the organization’s efforts to 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.
Karen Singer, YWCA President/CEO since 2004, said the goal of the campaign is $18.5 million. The campaign was launched last year, raising $14.8 million to date. Ground breaking for the new campus is planned to begin in March, 2020 with completion in December, 2020. The new shelter rooms will include private bathrooms, family rooms, a secure entrance, expanded children’s areas and room for private counseling.
The Evanston YWCA was started in 1931 and is part of the oldest women’s movement in the world. It works within 16 communities in the region, extending north to Lake County, west to 294, and south to Devon. It touches 10,000 women, children, and families yearly, offering the only comprehensive program advocating freedom from violence in the Chicago area.
