Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where is the YWCA located at Iowa State University?
The YWCA is located at 210 Lab of Mechanics.

Who can be a member?
Any woman or girl, 12 or older who supports the empowerment of women and the elimination of racism, may join this international organization.  Men who support the mission are welcomed as associates.

How do I become a member?
Contact us via e-mail (ywca@iastate.edu), phone 515-294-1663 or click here for an online membership application.

Do you offer swimming lessons and fitness programs?
No, we do not offer swimming lessons or fitness programs as we do not have traditional Y facilities. If you are looking for programs and facilities, contact the Ames Park and Recreation  (Administrative Offices: 515-239-5350 or Information Line: 515-239-5434). 

What kind of volunteer opportunities are there in the YWCA?
Volunteers are a vital part of all of our programs. A wide range of volunteer opportunities are available:  volunteer for a one-time event or an ongoing program, volunteer for a couple of hours a year to several hours a month, volunteer to provide office support or for leadership positions.

Volunteer to share your culture with others as an international representative in an International Friendship Fair or Voyage around the World. Volunteer to become a G.I.R.LS Power mentor. Volunteer to help make an event successful - "A Taste of Chocolate" party, the Women of Achievement Awards Luncheon, Race Against Racism 5K Run/Walk, Camp Molding a Better Tommorrow, the MLK Birthday Celebration, Week without Violence or Take Back the Night. Volunteer your time as an intern learning valuable work and life skills.

We value your time and what you can bring to your YWCA!

Who can volunteer?
We welcome volunteers of all descriptions - students and non-students, women and men, people of all ages and backgrounds, folks from all over the world. Stop into our office or fill out our online volunteer application.

Are there any scholarship opportunities for students?
The YWCA of Ames-ISU provides a financial scholarship each spring to a female student living out our mission of eliminating racism and/or empowering women.  Scholarships of approximately $750 are awarded to a female undergraduate and a female graduate student at ISU. 

For more information about the scholarship, click here.

Are there any awards you sponsor?
Each spring, the YWCA of Ames-ISU recognizes "Women of Achievement" in Story County at a special awards luncheon.  Since 2001, students, volunteers and professional women have been named YWCA Women of Achievement. To see YW Women of Achievement, click here.

Do you have a baby sitter program?
The YWCA of Ames-ISU makes a sitters' list available to parents in our community.  Individuals interested in being included on the sitters' list can obtain applications.  The list is updated three times a year.  For more information, click here.