“A smooth sea never made a skillful mariner.”

No question that the seas have not been easy this year, but over our long history, we have become skillful mariners. Since the establishment of the YWCA in Cincinnati in 1868, we have weathered and flourished through two world wars, a great flood, and an even greater depression. During these turbulent times, the YWCA held steady and provided support to our community and our country, always determined to fulfill our mission to be dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting justice, freedom and dignity for all.

The YWCA has been a driving force in our community, insisting that we face the difficult, sometimes unpopular, issues. We were instrumental in helping women to attain the right to vote, in providing a safe space for interracial groups to meet and eat together during the rigid segregation of the 1950’s, and in raising the issue of domestic violence and sexual harassment in the 1970’s. Today we offer programs that empower women and their families through a combination of service and social action. We are a shelter for women who are seeking refuge and change from an abusive situation, we are a resource to gaining stability through education, we are a leader in raising awareness and recognition of women in the workforce, we are a vehicle to challenge and change the attitudes that contribute to racial discrimination.

Created by women for women over 140 years ago, the YWCA of Greater Cincinnati will continue to increase our impact by empowering women, furthering racial justice, developing women as leaders and ending violence against women through comprehensive programs, outspoken leadership and professional expertise. 

women's art gallery
Colored Pencil Society of America
Feb 5 - Apr 16, 2010

Exhibit offers an explosion of color and a multitude of styles expressed in works by members of the Cincinnati Chapter of the Colored Pencil Society of America.  More here.

ywca downtown co-ed fitness center managed by TriHealth, offers comprehensive, medically based fitness services.

Convenient, friendly and affordable, the Center is your place to exercise for life, work and well-being. >>more

Martin Luther King, Jr. Coalition

 As a founding member of the coalition, the YWCA invites you to learn more about the first annual Not Just One Day of Service competition.

  

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