YWCA

The YWCA, or World YWCA, is a movement of women working for social and economic change around the world. It advocates for young women’s leadership, peace, justice, human rights and sustainable development, both on a grassroots and global scale. It is the largest women’s organization in the world, and the second oldest organization of its kind, second only to the Relief Society. The organization is currently based in Geneva, Switzerland.

Originally founded as the Young Women's Christian Association, the abbreviation no longer has that meaning, as their staff and the people they serve are not all young, women, or Christian. The name has been kept to maintain brand equity. The original Christian focus is still strong in many of the national associations, but some have changed their focus to social programs and services and mission-based topics. The YWCA is independent of the YMCA, though many local YMCA and YWCA associations have amalgamated into YM/YWCAs or YMCA-YWCAs, and belong to both organizations while providing the programs of each.

YWCA Boston

The Boston Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) (est.1866) was founded in Boston, Massachusetts, "to aid the young working-women of Boston, without regard to their religious belief." It was incorporated in 1867 by Pauline A. Durant, Ann Maria Sawyer, Hannah A. Bowen, and Clara L. Wells. It is the United States' oldest YWCA. With a mission to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all, the organization has been providing services to Boston residents and visitors from more than 144 years.

Historically, YWCA community programs have included recreation facilities, daycare, adult and child education, and advocacy work for women and children's rights. Since 1880, the organization has provided affordable permanent and temporary housing for women, transients and students at its 40 Berkeley Street site.

History

19th century

"1866—Boston organized March 31, opened rooms in May and held a singing class the first year; in 1867 opened classes in astronomy and in physiology; in 1868 in penmanship and bookkeeping."

YWCA (Muncie, Indiana)

YWCA is a historic YWCA building located at Muncie, Delaware County, Indiana. It was built in 1925, and is a three-story, five bay by three bay, restrained Colonial Revival style brick building with limestone detailing. It has swimming pool in the basement, meeting and recreation rooms on the first floor, and sleeping rooms on the second and third floors.

It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.

References