Flowers of appreciation

www.ywcacharleston.blogspot.com
October 19, 2009

Tomorrow, (Tuesday, October 20) KIDS COUNT will honor West Virginia's 2,400 professional childcare providers by sponsoring a statewide "Take a Flower to Childcare Day." We encourage parents, young children and community leaders to show their appreciation for childcare providers by showering them with flowers of appreciation! Roses. Daisies. Carnations. Lillies. Real flowers. Silk flowers. Homemade paper flowers. Anything goes!  Click here for more...

Lancaster YWCA joins global effort to promote peace

Bernard Harris
Intelligencer Journal
www.lancasteronline.com
October 19, 2009

Dot Evans remembers being in a grocery store in her native New Orleans when she saw a child take a box of cereal off the shelf and tell his mother that he wanted it.

The mother told the boy to put it back. The child didn't and did not come when called.

The mother, in anger and frustration, threw her purse at the boy, Evans recalled.

When people think of violence, they may think of wars, acts of terrorism or urban drug shootings —!\qthe kind of violence they see on television news.

The Week Without Violence campaign launched by the YWCA of Lancaster on Sunday evening aims to have people think about violence more broadly and closer to home, said Evans, the YWCA's assistant executive director.  Click here for more...

YWCA announces plans, recipients for annual awards

Shawna T. Turner 
www.sungazette.com
October 4, 2009

Five very different people and companies with one very similar interest - the community - will be lauded at the YWCA's annual awards luncheon on Oct. 19 in the Genetti's Grand Ballroom.

"All of the awards encompass people who support the mission of the YWCA and promote justice and equality either individually or in their corporate atmosphere," said Janel Gordner, YWCA director of development and communications.

Two local businesses and three more individuals have been named as award winners for the annual achievement.  Click here for more...

Harrisburg YWCA Cuts Administrative Jobs
Five Positions Cut, More Likely

www.wgal.com
October 2, 2009

Another victim of the state budget impasse, the YWCA of greater Harrisburg cut five administrative jobs Friday, and more are likely on the way.  Click here for more...

Agency: Men must prevent domestic violence, too
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Angie Mason
York Daily Record/York Sunday News
http://ydr.inyork.com
September 30, 2009

Rick Pedzwater helped tie dark-purple ribbons to a tree Wednesday morning in Continental Square.

He was the only man among a group of women wearing purple shirts bearing the message "Ending domestic violence begins with me."

"From my perspective, from a male perspective, domestic violence is not a women's issue," he said. "It's an issue that impacts all of us."  Click here for more...

Women EXCEL Announce Speaker’s Agenda

Posted by Joe Zlomek
The Pottstown Post
http://pottstownpa.wordpress.com  
September 25, 2009

Speaker Janine Kelly will discuss domestic abuse with the members of Women EXCEL, a professional woman’s networking organization, during their Oct. 16 (2009) morning meeting at the YWCA Tri-County Area, 315 King Street, Pottstown PA.

Women EXCEL is sponsored by YWCA Tri-County Area. EXCEL breakfast meetings are held the 3rd Friday of each month from September through June at 7:30 a.m. Reservations are required.  Click here for more...

YWCA Delaware Celebrates its 20th Anniversary Helping Homeless Familieswww.delawareonline.com
September 17, 2009

YWCA Delaware is celebrating its 20th Anniversary of its Home-Life Management Center on September 25th from noon to 5PM. Twenty years ago, YWCA Delaware recognized the growing prevalence of homelessness among single mothers and their children. They responded by being the first organization in Delaware to open a temporary housing program providing innovative services to homeless families by coupling safe and secure housing with individualized skills training and support that empowers families to break the cycles of poverty. At Home-Life Management Center (HLMC), we support the entire family unit with opportunities to learn skills, gain education, and develop confidence needed to eliminate barriers and overcome life's obstacles.  Click here for more...

Got pain? Program can help

Andrea Ciccocioppo
The Sentinel
www.cumberlink.com
September 13, 2009

Those who live with chronic pain could be just a few weeks away from relief thanks to an upcoming education and support class.

“Living with Pain” sessions will be offered at the YWCA of Carlisle beginning Sept. 23.

Promise of pain relief

The class promises to reduce chronic pain, improve the quality of life and stimulate the body’s natural resources for pain relief, according to instructor Bonnie Berk. Click here for more...

You Can Nominate A "Young Emerging Leader"

D.K. Wright
www.wtrf.com
September 10, 2009

There's a new aspect to the Wheeling YWCA's Domestic Violence Prevention Program's major fund-raiser.

"Hat's Off To Women" set for October 13 at Oglebay's Pine Room, will also honor young women from the ages of 12 through 18 who are nominated by the public as Young Emerging Leaders.  Click here for more...

YWCA Delaware launches Own It campaign for 'Gen Y' women

Christen Battaglia
Reader Submitted
www.delawareonline.com
September 9, 2009

YWCA Delaware has joined with the YWCA USA national office and other local YWCA associations around the country to launch Own It, a national grassroots campaign that invites Generation Y women, ages 18-30, to engage in community service on behalf of women. The campaign will also partner with young women to advocate for the YWCA's priority policy issues, including racism, gender discrimination and economic empowerment for women.

“During the next year, the YWCA Delaware will partner with these smart, compassionate young women and provide opportunities for them to be involved with our key issues and community services,” said Ginny Marino, Director of YWCA Delaware. “As the nation's oldest and largest women's organization, the YWCA has continually reached out to new generations of women to provide critically important services to at-risk women, especially those who are victims of domestic violence or sexual assault, or are homeless.”  Click here for more...

YWCA to Host Salsa Night Sept. 14

The Intelligencer Wheeling News-Register
www.news-register.net
September 7, 2009

The Wheeling YWCA is preparing for its semi-annual fundraiser for the organization's "Y Not Repeat Boutique." It is scheduled for Sept. 14 from 6-8 p.m.

Located at 1100 Chapline St., the YWCA's doors will open at 5:30 p.m. for the event. All are welcome. The evening will consist of Mexican-themed hors d'oeuvres and cocktails and punch. There will be a demonstration of salsa dancing by a professional salsa dancer from the Wheeling area. The evening's highlight is shopping in the Boutique with ''Boutique Pesos'' that are included in the price of the ticket. Guests of the evening are encouraged to bring clothing that they no longer wear that can be resold in the Boutique at a later time.  Click here for more...

Hanover area service agencies worry for future

Heather Faulhefer
The Evening Sun
www.eveningsun.com
September 13, 2009

A private vendor recently approached Tina Heffner, the executive director of the YWCA of Hanover, and asked if the organization was interested in doing business.

She couldn't help but laugh.

You just don't approach a nonprofit and ask for money during an ongoing state budget impasse that has lasted for more than two months, she said. And even though it appeared late last week the impasse might be reaching an end, the financial strain is expected to continue for weeks if not months to come.

Several nonprofits in the Hanover area have been struggling without state funding withheld during the impasse. Some have extended lines of credit or have tapped into reserve funds to make it through the impasse.  Click here for more...

State budget impasse is hurting YWCA programs locally

The Mercury
www.pottsmerc.com
September 5, 2009

State budget negotiations have stood at an impasse since the passage of the Governor's Stopgap budget. State workers are now receiving paychecks, but organizations and agencies with state contracts are still not being paid for their services. This adds to the severe economic distress nonprofits are already under during this recessionary time.

As co-chairs of the YWCA Mid-Atlantic Region, we are witnessing the impact the lack of a state budget is having on the 24 YWCAs in Pennsylvania. YWCAs provide childcare for thousands of low income families daily that is subsidized through the state. We also operate domestic violence shelters and rape crisis centers that are almost wholly dependent on government grants. We certainly cannot refuse these crisis services to victims of crime because of inability to pay. We may become unable to pay our staff. These services and others are at risk of shutting down.  Click here for more...

Open for fun

The Mercury
www.pottsmerc.com
September 5, 2009

Children were able to play at the new YWCA playground in Pottstown Friday after Sharon Basile, left, president of the YWCA board of directors Louise Koury and her grandson, Jacob Koury cut the ribbon.  Click here for more...

Day-care providers protest delay in state payments

Deborah M. Todd
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
www.post-gazette.com
August 31, 2009

About 40 representatives from day-care providers throughout the county gathered in front of the YWCA of Pittsburgh on Wood Street, Downtown, this morning to protest the state budget impasse that has halted child care subsidy payments for more than a month.

Organizers said they chose to rally in front of the YWCA because it houses the Child Care Information Services of Allegheny County, the organization in charge of distributing funds from the state's Child Care Works Subsidized Child Care Program.  Click here for more...

My Time: JC Penney's gives $63,000 to YWCA program

The Capital
www.hometownannapolis.com
August 16, 2009

On behalf of JCPenney, Annapolis store manager Frank Sullivan presents a check for $63,000 to Tracey Cherry, assistant director of programs of the YWCA Annapolis and Anne Arundel County.

The donations was made through the United Way to support the Turning Point after-school enrichment program at Annapolis High School.  Click here for more...

Sussex Countain
www.sussexcountian.com
August 14, 2009

Last month, home foreclosure filings in Delaware broke another monthly record, totaling 652, compared with 389 in July 2008, a jump of 67.6 percent, according to a press release from the State Attorney General's Office.

For the first seven months of 2009, foreclosure filings jumped 45.3 percent from last year, to 3,552, versus 2,443 in the same time period in 2008.  Click here for more...

Megan's Shower of Hope

www.abc2news.com 
July 28, 2009

Early next month, ABC2NEWS will host a virtual bridal shower for Good Morning Maryland anchor Megan Pringle, Megan’s Shower of Hope. All items will be donated to disabled homeless women in Baltimore County who will finally be moving into new homes.

Megan’s Shower of Hope will support the “My Place Project,” a collaboration between Baltimore County government, United Way of Central Maryland and the YWCA of Greater Baltimore, which is designed to help 13 chronically homeless women outfit apartments for a new permanent supportive housing program the YWCA and Baltimore County are building in Arbutus.  Click here for more...

YWCA, cops to co-host program

Bob Coupland
Tribune Chronicle
www.tribtoday.com
July 8, 2009

"The Path to Community Change" is the theme of a community program open to the public, showing ways people can work with local law enforcement to improve their neighborhoods.

The program, will include ways to interact appropriately with police departments and discuss citizen roles and responsibilities, will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday at the YWCA Warren, 375 N. Park Ave. To register, call 330-373-1010.

Members of the Warren Community Collaborative Against Violence, which formed this spring, met recently to discuss plans for future events and programs for adults and youth, such as this. The committee includes representatives from different neighborhood associations and organizations.

Bob Weitzel, chairman of board of directors for the Northwest Neighborhood Association, said he would like to see different neighborhood groups come together and be involved with helping to make the community safer.

Shari Harrell, executive director of the YWCA, said the YWCA is a catalyst in bringing the groups together for one-on-one communication.  Click here for more...

'These people want you to succeed, and you start gaining hope'

www.pennlive.com
July 06, 2009

Harry Barnes held several jobs after leaving the Army in 1985, but nothing ever seemed to stick.

Something didn't feel right.

He never felt a sense of direction and turned to drugs to fill the void.

By the time the Philadelphia native made it to Harrisburg, all he had were two garbage bags and a serious addiction. But three years later, with the help of the YWCA of Greater Harrisburg, he's back on his feet -- working full time, renting an apartment and drug-free.

Barnes, 48, is just one of the success stories from the YWCA's homeless veterans reintegration program, and next year there could be twice as many. The rapid growth of the program in the midstate led the U.S. Department of Labor to more than double its funding for next year.  Click here for more...

YWCA celebrates, honors leaders

The New Pittsburgh Courier Online
www.newpittsburghcourieronline.com
July 2, 2009

The YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh celebrated its 140th year of service to the community with a full calendar of events, among them, the 27th annual “A Tribute to Women Leadership” Awards Luncheon, held this year at the Westin Hotel.

The nonprofit’s signature fund-raiser honored women in the greater Pittsburgh area who had demonstrated excellence and leadership in the workplace and in the community and for their contributions to the goals of the mission of the YWCA—to empower women and girls and to eliminate racism.  Click here for more...

Funding doubled for midstate veterans assistance program

Emily Opilo
The Patriot-News
www.pennlive.com
July 1, 2009

The Greater Harrisburg YWCA's homeless veterans reintegration program might be able to serve twice as many people next year.The rapid growth of the service in the midstate region led the U.S. Department of Labor to more than double its funding for the next year.

The program provides job skills training, helps design resumes, outfits clients for interviews, teaches on-the-job etiquette and most importantly finds veterans a place to sleep.

Annual grants of $75,500 have kept the program afloat for the last three years. That allowed the YWCA to enroll 45 veterans as full-time clients. Thirty-five of those clients now have jobs and housing.  Click here for more...

Robert Wang
www.CantonRep.com 
May 27, 2009

Contrary to what a federal government news release said Friday, stimulus funding to build YWCA of Canton’s Gateway II housing project for homeless people with disabilities is not yet certain.

Last week, a joint news release from the departments of the U.S. Treasury and Housing and Urban Development said Gateway II was one of the “examples of specific local projects the Treasury (stimulus) funds will support.”  Click here for more...

Bob Coupland
Tribune Chronicle
www.tribtoday.com
May 22, 2009

A vigil for shooting victim Lloyd McCoy will be held at 6 p.m. June 1 at the Packard Music Hall.

Shari Harrell and Michele Schmader, both with the Warren YWCA, said the Warren community has been coping with the loss of an innocent child.

The newly formed Warren Community Collaborative Against Violence is asking all parents, neighbors, businesses and concerned adults to unite against violence and maintain a safe community for children. The vigil is in collaboration with the Warren schools, city officials, police, neighborhood associations, churches and other organizations.

The vigil will support the McCoy family and commemorate the life of Lloyd McCoy, 11, who died from complications that resulted from a drive-by shooting, Harrell said.  Click here for more...

Man of Inspiration
World-renowned doctor brings message to city

Greg Hayes
www.sungazette.com
May 21, 2009

What can your brain do if you put your mind to it?

That was one of the questions posed to audiences throughout Wednesday, as Dr. Ben Carson spread his message of education, faith and hope to the city, as part of the YWCA's capital campaign.

The world-renowned doctor, who is a professor and director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Medical Institution, grew up in inner-city Detroit, overcoming his struggles through the power of education and the guiding hand of his mother.

Carson spoke to the city's youth at Williamsport Area High School and the YWCA's Remembering Honor class and addressed the general public at the Community Arts Center.  Click here for more...

empowering perspectives
YWCA Charleston
May 20, 2009

On May 3, West Virginia Assistant Attorney General Janet James stood before the YWCA USA Annual General Assembly in Washington, DC and repeated an oath to uphold the YWCA’s mission of “eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.”James, who currently serves on our board of directors, was one of eight women sworn in that day to the National Coordinating Board (NCB) of the YWCA USA. This 21-member board represents nearly 300 affiliated local YWCAs serving 2.5 million women and girls each year. Globally, the YWCA USA is a member of World YWCA, which has affiliates in 122 countries that serve 25 million women and girls worldwide. James was elected as one of the two representatives of the Mid-Atlantic Region, which encompasses 49 YWCAs in nine states. Below you will find her reflection on being elected to this important position.  Click here for more...

Girls Rock!

YWCA Alliance
May 13, 2009

 Click here for more...

Where Do We Stand On Race?

Sunday News
Lancaster, PA
May 10, 2009

Click here to view article

Standing up for women around the world

James McGinnis
Bucks County Courier Times
www.phillyburbs.com
April 28, 2009

In America, the YWCA focuses on outreach, education and career skills. In some countries, it's a haven for women under threat.

When Zoya Burda lived in Ukraine in 1991, there were no free classes in computer training or English, she said.

When she called home from Bucks County 18 years later, none of her friends knew how to access the Web.

"There were no volunteers to teach you how to do these things for free," Burda said. "There was no one to help you."

Burda today is as proud of her computer skills as she is of her children who got to grow up in America.

She is one of 50 local women who participated in the Bucks County YWCA's International Luncheon Friday at the Country Commons apartment complex in Bensalem.  Click here for more...

No pause for the cause
Race Against Racism draws 3,000 from near and far.

Jeannette Scott
www.lancasteronline.com
April 26, 2009

Some 3,000 participants in the 11th YWCA Race Against Racism crowded the 200 block of East Chestnut Street and the 200 block of North Lime Street, near Musser Park, Saturday morning.

The swiftest runners were ahead of the throng, at the starting line on East Chestnut Street. They bounced on their feet, shook their arms and legs, and paced to stay loose.

African women sang energetic melodies in their native tongue from a CD over a loudspeaker.

Then, silence.

"Runners, set!" shouted the announcer.

Pop! The starting gun fired and the front-line feet sprinted forward in the 5-kilometer race.  Click here for more...

Elijah Armold
York Daily Record/York Sunday News
http://ydr.inyork.com
April 25, 2009

The phrase "empowering women" is part of the YWCA of York's slogan, but Saturday morning, the focus was on the remainder of that slogan: "eliminating racism."

More than 500 runners and walkers participated in the third annual Race Against Racism held in downtown York. The YWCA stages the 5K run/walk as a way to unite people of all races and demonstrate the community's commitment to ending racism while celebrating diversity.

"It was a great success," said YWCA Chief Executive Officer Debra Stock. "We had about 10 percent more people than last year, and I think that in itself is a great success."

Stock also mentioned that proceeds from the race support a multitude of the YWCA's anti-racism programs.  Click here for more...

YWCA Outstanding Women talk about what inspired them

Katherine Calos
Richmond Times-Dispatch
www.timesdispatch.com
April 25, 2009

Ten area women received 2009 YWCA Outstanding Women Awards yesterday at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.

Proceeds from the luncheon benefit YWCA programs, including the Child Development Center, 24-hour crisis hot line and domestic and sexual violence programs.  Click here for more...

York YWCA Pool To Open By Labor Day
Facility Undergoing $6.5M Renovation

www.wgal.com
April 1, 2009

News 8 checked in on the progress of a $6.5 million pool renovation at the YWCA in York.

The project began last October after an anonymous donation to restore and repair the plumbing problems at the 55-year-old pool.

"Well, actually it will be redone almost completely," said Deb Stock, a York YWCA representative. "A lot of the upgrade will be things you don't see."  Click here for more...

Westmoreland YWCA honors Gibson

Paul Schofield
Tribune-Review
www.pittsburghlive.com
April 1, 2009

When Maggie Gibson played high school basketball at Greensburg Central Catholic, she was overshadowed, somewhat, by teammate Ashley Henderson.

But that changed when Gibson went to Washington & Jefferson.

Gibson — and her game — soared. The junior forward and team captain at W&J is having a fantastic college career as a scorer and rebounder.

As a three-year starter, Gibson averages 9.8 points and 9.7 rebounds per game. She has started 86 of 88 games.

This past season, Gibson averaged 9.8 points and 10.3 rebounds per game, and was named to the Presidents' Athletic Conference first team.  Click here for more...

YWCA fundraiser planned

Charleston Daily Mail
www.dailymail.com
April 1, 2009

The YWCA has announced a new dimension in its "24-for-24" pledge drive to raise money for the organization's $2 Million Challenge campaign.

Businesses throughout Charleston will have displays called "24: The Underground." The plan is for people to collect clues from these businesses and visit the Web site www.24theunderground.com to piece together the details of an event to be held April 24 to benefit the YWCA. Click here for more...

Jane Weston Chapman Awards Honor Three Members of Campus Community

Heather Centorbi
Mount Union College
March 31, 2009

Dr. Sarah Torok, Linda Pauli and senior Lindsey Coyle were recognized with the Jane Weston Chapman award for their contributions in enhancing the climate for women's participation in any and all areas of Mount Union College community life at the Women’s History Month Convocation held March 31 in the Dewald Chapel.

The award, named for the first female graduate of Mount Union College, has been a part of Women's History Month at the College since 1997. It is awarded to faculty, staff and students - male or female - who spread women's history and address women's issues on campus.  Click here for more...

Chris Brown case sparks serious discussions about dating violence

Melissa Ruggieri
Richmond Times-Dispatch
www.timesdispatch.com
March 29, 2009

Hometown support of Chris Brown unwavering

When Chris Brown allegedly assaulted girlfriend Rihanna last month, it enraged fans of both singers.

But it also provided an opportunity to discuss dating and domestic violence, particularly among teens who revered the 19-year-old Brown.

Even Howard Stern remarked on his Sirius XM satellite radio show that Brown's situation was a "useful tool" to talk to his own teenage daughters about abuse in relationships.

The organization Do Something, which addresses issues concerning teens, recently posted on its Web site (http://www.dosomething.org) a video re-enactment of the altercation using the police arrest notes as a script and regular people in the roles of Brown and Rihanna. The goal of the video was to reinforce the severity of dating violence in a setting devoid of superstar names.  Click here for more...

Malone football players throw muscle into community service

Lisa Reicosky
www.cantonrep.com 
March 21, 2009

Members of the Malone University Pioneers football team got a different kind of workout today — lifting furniture instead of barbells.

About 30 guys, including their head coach, Mike Gardner, set out this morning with moving trucks to take part in a day of service for the YWCA Emergency Shelter program.

The annual “Muscle Move” is a collaboration with area moving companies who donated vans and drivers for the day. Several crews are making scheduled pick-ups at Canton-area houses where everything from sectional couches to beds and mattresses will be used for the YMCA’s transitional housing.  Click here for more...

Hoops Hall of Famer Flournoy speaks out against racism

Elijah Armold
York Daily Record/York Sunday News
http://ydr.inyork.com
March 16, 2009

Imagine a team is tied with its arch rival -- on the road with only 1 second remaining in the game.

An untested player has been awarded a free throw that will no doubt decide the winner. Thousands of rabid fans doing anything and everything in their power to distract, intimidate or influence the outcome.

Think that's pressure?

With what Harry Flournoy endured during his playing days, such pressure would be considered a walk in the park.

Flournoy was the keynote speaker at the York Jewish Community Center on Monday as part of an ongoing series of programs by the YWCA of York on racial injustice.  Click here for more...

How the court ruled on race 'Glory Road' hoopster tells the story at YWCA forum

Intelligencer Journal
www.lancasteronline.com
March 16, 2009
Tom Knapp 

In 1966, Harry Flournoy wasn't thinking about making civil rights history. He just wanted to play basketball — and win.

Flournoy, who grew up in Gary, Ind., and went to Texas Western College in El Paso, accepted racism as a fact of life. He was angry, but felt powerless.

All that changed — for Flournoy personally and the nation at large — in 1966 when he led the all-black starting lineup of the Texas Western Miners to victory over the all-white Kentucky Wildcats to win the NCAA men's basketball final.

The story was featured in the film "Glory Road."

"They told us you can't have five black players on the floor at one time because they don't think fast enough for that game," Flournoy said Sunday.  Click here for more...

YWCA to honor women of distinction

www.dailypress.com
March 13, 2009

Thirteen women will be recognized March 20 by the YWCA Virginia Peninsula.

The second-annual "Woman of Distinction" award honors women who reside or work on the Peninsula and make significant contributions to the Peninsula through professional activities and volunteer efforts. They will be recognized during an 11 a.m. luncheon at the Newport News Marriott at City Center.  Click here for more...

Bethlehem YWCA receives money to fund breast exams for public housing residents

Sarah Wojcik
www.lehighvalleylive.com
March 13, 2009

A Philadelphia affiliate of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure organization will help fund a program providing breast exams to economically disadvantaged women through the Bethlehem YWCA.

The YWCA received $27,390 in grant money from the organization to conduct the "neighbor to neighbor" program with the Bethlehem Housing Authority and Bethlehem Health Bureau.  Click here for more...

Rihanna case prompts questions from teens

Angie Mason
York Daily Record/York Sunday News
http://ydr.inyork.com
March 5, 2009

When Stacy Kimberly spoke to a church group recently about domestic violence, a young boy piped up.

He asked if she was talking about pop stars Rihanna and Chris Brown.

Brown was arrested on suspicion of making felony criminal threats in early February after what was rumored to be an altercation with girlfriend Rihanna. A photo of a bruised woman appearing to be Rihanna was released recently, but police won't confirm it's her.

The situation involving the singers is making the topic of domestic violence more real for teens, said Kimberly, community education specialist and volunteer liaison for Access-York, a YWCA program.  Click here for more...

YWCA Lancaster Letter to Editor - click here to read (2.23.2009)

YWCA Boutique Celebrated

Shelley Hanson
The Intelligencer - Wheeling News-Register
www.theintelligencer.net
February 24, 2009

When Frances Headley escaped her abuser, she arrived at the YWCA with only the clothes on her back.  ''I had nothing,'' she said, noting the police dropped her off at the organization's shelter in downtown Wheeling.  Through the YWCA's Family Violence and Prevention program, Headley got back on her feet.  The organization also provided the clothes she needed to look professional and feel confident during job interviews.  Click here for more...

Two honored during YWCA's Black Heritage Celebration

The Mercury
www.pottsmerc.com
February 17, 2009

A retired Realtor and a Pottstown High School honor student were honored during an annual Black Heritage Celebration hosted at the YWCA Tri-County Area, 315 King St.

Lillie Foster, president of the board of directors of the Pottstown Area Seniors' Center, 724 N. Adams St., and a former member of the YWCA board, was named recipient of the 2009 Joyce Reddick Award.

Anthony Lyon, 18, a stand-out scholar at Pottstown High, was presented with the 2009 Martin Luther King Jr. Award.  Click here for more...

Tribute to Women Nominees Sought

Casey Hicks
The Intelligencer - Wheeling News-Register
www.theintelligencer.net
February 16, 2009

The YWCA Wheeling is accepting nominations for its annual Tribute to Women Party until Friday.

Nominees fall into the categories of performing and visual arts; education including administration, teaching and coaching; business and professional; volunteer/non-paid community service; health care; nonprofit including government, religion and social services; law; or another category to be specified. Nominees should demonstrate leadership qualities and make a significant contribution to the Greater Wheeling area.

"It's a wonderful way to honor women who have contributed to the Ohio Valley," said YWCA Wheeling Executive Director Carry Byrum.

Last year's recipients were former state Sen. Thais Blatnik (D-Ohio) in government, retired Sgt. Bonnie Bonar in domestic violence prevention, Wheeling Newspapers Arts and Living Editor Linda Comins for media, WTRF-TV News Director Brenda Danehart for community service and U.S. Attorney Sharon Potter for law. In health care, Kathy Fortunato was honored posthumously for her contributions as a nurse and a community activist.  Click here for more...

YWCA names 10 outstanding women

Richmond Times-Dispatch
www.timesdispatch.com
February 12, 2009

Ten recipients of the YWCA's 2009 Outstanding Women Awards were announced today.

They will be honored at the 29th annual awards luncheon on April 24 at 11:30 a.m. at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.

Since 1980, the YWCA has honored nearly 300 women.

This year's recipients: click here for more...

Carlisle leaders aim to boost racial diversity

Rick Seltzer
The Patriot-News
www.pennlive.com
February 11, 2009

Community leaders discussed steps their organizations are taking to improve racial diversity and integration at a meeting Tuesday night of the Race Committee of the Carlisle Inclusive Communities Initiative.

The Penn State Dickinson School of Law plans a diversity in law program Feb. 28 to encourage minority middle and high school students to consider pursuing law degrees, said Tamara Storey, director of counseling services at the school.

The Greater Carlisle Area Chamber of Commerce will hold a program April 23 to help businesses recruit and retain a diverse work force, said Michelle Crowley, the chamber president.  Click here for more...

Black Heritage celebration planned Sunday

The Mercury 
www.pottsmerc.com
February 6, 2009

February is Black History Month and the YWCA Tri-County Area will present the annual Black Heritage Celebration on Sunday, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the YWCA Tri-County Area, 315 King St.

This is the 25th time the YWCA Tri-County Area has sponsored this event.

The black Heritage Celebration is organized and hosted by the YWCA Racial Justice Committee and features speakers, award presentations, local performers and a reception. Musical groups scheduled to appear include choirs and dance troupes from the Mount Olive Baptist Church and Bethel AME Church. The event is free and the public is invited to attend. Those who are present will receive a memento of the occasion.  Click here for more...

Former domestic violence victim to be honored for her work

Sara Busse
The Charleston Gazette
www.wvgazette.com
February 3, 2009

Lois Smith was like any other 15-year-old girl with a high school sweetheart. By the time he hit her for the first time, she was so in love, she didn't think she could leave.

"All of those fireworks going off," Smith said. "What did I know about life, let alone relationships? I thought I was too grown up to listen to my mother, and we just fell in love. You know, those magical teenage years - waiting for this Prince Charming to ride up on a white horse and take you off.  "And then, when you're hit, all of the magic fades."

Why didn't Smith get out? "That's the question of the century: What takes the battered woman so long to leave?" she said.

Her journey to safety took 29 years, but today she is a strong, focused, wise woman - a survivor. And she's a residential aide at the YWCA Shanklin Center, working with chronically abused homeless women who have suffered at the hands of their spouses, their parents and even their children.  Click here for more...

"It's OK to be Different."

www.dailypress.com
January 30, 2009

3:30 p.m. Feb. 4, YWCA, 2702 Orcutt Ave. For children ages 9-12 and their parents. This is the last in a film series on racial justice. Walt Disney's "Pocahontas" will be shown. Free. Sponsors: YWCA and Newport News Public Library System. Organizations are asked to call 245-6026 for reservations.

Judges review nomination forms for annual YWCA P.E.A.R.L. awards

www.standardspeaker.com
January 26, 2009

Four business and professional leaders met Jan. 21 to review nominations fot the YWCA P.E.A.R.L. Award for professional achievement.

Taking part in the judging were Carole Shearer, alumni and development specialist, Penn State Hazleton; Jim Wohlleber, advertising account executive, Standard-Speaker; Donna Barna, vice principal, Billig-Helmes Insurance, and Katrina Lennartz, owner Katrina’s Travel.

Also on hand for the judging were Joanne Gabriele, YWCA staff, and P.E.A.R.L. committee members Toni Frumkin, Mary Ann Zubris, Michelle Genetti and Megan Kennedy.

Winners, who will be announced shortly, are outstanding professional women chosen from 10 categories including arts and letters, education, business and industry, communications, entrepreneur/self-employed, financial services, government/public and civil service, health care, human services and professions.  Click here for more...

Elyria YWCA head didn’t jump the gun for inauguration tickets

Adam Wright
The Chronicle-Telegram
www.chroniclet.com
January 21, 2009

She reserved the hotel room the day after Barack Obama was elected president, but Jeanine Donaldson wanted to make the call so much earlier.

Shortly after Obama grabbed the Democratic nomination, the executive director of Elyria YWCA made a pact with her friends that no matter how large a lead Obama had on his Republican opponent in the polls leading up to Nov. 4, they would not buy a ticket to Washington, D.C., or make any plans to attend the inauguration until after his acceptance speech was made.

“We didn’t want to jinx the results,” Donaldson said, laughing, during a phone interview from her hotel room in Alexandria, Va. “As if we had power over the election.”  Click here for more...

With focus on King, youth laud Obama
YWCA holds annual MLK Day celebration

Madelyn Pennino
www.lancasteronline.com
January 20, 2009

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the words hope and change had special meaning as the country awaited today's inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama.

The energy was apparent Monday at the YWCA's fourth annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration, where more than 200 preschoolers and school-aged children learned about the civil-rights leader and talked about their feelings for Obama.

Seven-year-old Marcus Cruz, who attends the YWCA's day-care program, said he respects King.

"He made changes," Marcus said. "He was a nice man."

Marcus also said he knows King wanted people to be equals.  Click here for more...

Group fighting to retake the streets
Coalition seeks end to violence in the southeast neighborhood in order to spur community investment.

Jon Cawley
www.dailypress.com 
January 16, 2009

Elder John Shields is a former drug dealer turned street preacher. Shaun Brown is an Oxford graduate who runs an international consulting firm.

An unlikely combination maybe. But together, the southeast Newport News residents decided a comprehensive approach was needed to succeed where other efforts have failed in addressing the issues of blight, gangs and hopelessness that plague their neighborhood.

They brainstormed and in September formed a coalition with other activists to retake the streets.

It's called Restore Inner-City Peace, or RIP for short.  Click here for more...

Improving state literacy continues to be a struggle

Bill Zlatos
Tribune-Review
www.pittsburghlive.com
January 14, 2009

Debra Rose decided last year she wanted to learn to drive. But first she had to learn to read.

Rose, 25, of North Huntingdon enrolled in March in a basic literacy class with the YWCA of Westmoreland County. About twice a week, she learns to read with a tutor at Norwin Public Library in Irwin.

"Every day, I'm doing better and better," she said.  Click here for more...

Safety rules puzzle thrift shops

Joe Napsha
Tribune-Review
www.pittsburghlive.com
January 14, 2009

Area resale shop operators are confused over whether new federal regulations that ban the sale of children's products containing lead and certain unsafe chemicals will force them to dump rather than sell some products in their stores.

Last week, the Consumer Product Safety Commission clarified requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 so that resale shops and thrift stores will be exempt from testing for lead content and certain chemicals called phthalates used to soften plastics in children's products.

But the guidelines still say those shops should avoid products likely to have the high lead content, unless they have tested the goods or have information about them.  Click here for more...

YWCA seeks submissions for Eliminating Racism art contest

The Charleson Gazette
www.wvgazette.com
January 14, 2009

YWCA of Charleston, along with the Clay Center, is seeking submissions for its Eliminating Racism Art Contest.

Kindergartners through adults can submit their artwork to promote education and awareness about diversity and tolerance. The submission deadline is Jan. 30.

Any two-dimensional piece of artwork no larger than 11 inches by 17 inches is eligible, including paintings, sketches, posters and photography.

Artwork will be judged based on the piece's creativity and representation of the theme by a panel of three judges. First- through third-place winners from each age category will receive prizes, and the overall "Best in Show" will be featured on the cover of the spring YWCA newsletter.

Age categories are kindergarten through second grade; third through fifth grade; sixth through eighth grade; ninth through 12th grade; college and adult.  Click here for more...

PEARL nomination forms are due Friday

www.standardspeaker.com
January 12, 2009

The YWCA of Hazleton’s PEARL award nomination forms deadline will be Friday. Nominees must be salaried employees living or working in the Greater Hazleton area or Weatherly.

An award may be presented to one woman in each of the following categories: arts and letters, business and industry, communication, education, entrepreneur/self-employed, government/public and civil service, health care, human services, professions, and financial services.

The PEARL award recognizes outstanding professional achievements among women. Since the inception of the PEARL Awards, over 120 women have been honored.  Click here for more...

Anticipation builds for locals heading to inauguration

Lisa Roberson
The Chronicle-Telegram
www.chroniclet.com
January 10, 2009

From foot soldier for a historic presidential campaign to standing on the lawn on the National Mall to watch the swearing-in ceremony for the first black president in U.S. history, YWCA Executive Director Jeanine Donaldson will see a lot of hard work come full circle in just a few short days.

Accompanied by her husband, Larry, Jeanine imagines the moment President-elect Barack Obama takes the oath of office will be surreal in nature.

“Without being there, that’s really the only word that comes to mind for me,” she said Friday. “This — seeing a black man be sworn in as president — has never happened before. Nothing else really has changed, but then again, everything has changed.”

The Donaldsons aren’t the only Lorain County residents to attend — Elyria Mayor Bill Grace also will be there.  Click here for more...

New Oxford woman to be honored

Jamie McCune
The Evening Sun
www.eveningsun.com
January 9, 2009

Sitting at a table in the alumni house of Gettysburg College, Sylvia Asante twisted in her chair and pointed to the wall behind her. On the walls a series of collages, made to celebrate the college's 175th anniversary in 2007, hang depicting the history of the college.

But Asante was only interested in one of the images. The photo is of the Rev. Rudolph Featherstone, who in 1956 became the first black graduate of Gettysburg College.

Times have changed at Gettysburg College since then, and in her 20 years with the college working in the Intercultural Advancement office, Asante has seen both the faculty and student body change and become more diverse, she said.  Click here for more...

City planning GreenScape event

The Capital
www.hometownannapolis.com
January 9, 2009

The city is now making plans for GreenScape 2009, to be held this year on April 18. Volunteers will spend that day cleaning up and beautifying Annapolis and planting gardens in their communities.

The city will provide the plant materials, mulch, trash bags and gloves.  Click here for more...

Dateline Pittsburgh: 01/08/09