Windows on the World Capital Campaign 

For the hundreds of women who have gazed through the windows of the YWCA since 1914, one wonders if those young eyes of years ago saw a future filled with confidence and success?  Did they hope for health, education and self-sufficiency in their futures? A better life for their children?

In today’s world, the community opens up to accept those who, by their own effort, commitment and hard work, have been empowered to succeed. This campaign is about success, and the YWCA is proud to carry forward a tradition of empowering women in new ways consistent with the problems and obstacles of the 21^st Century.

We are proud of the grand old building that houses the YWCA of Fort Dodge and its historic link to the fabric of our community. We also realize old buildings create significant challenges in upkeep and design when they are asked to house programs critical to the success of today’s young women and their children.

We have recently replaced the century-old windows at the Y and upgraded our heating and electrical systems on the residential floors.  There is additional work to do.  We must increase the size of some residential units to accommodate mothers with multiple children.  We know that soon we must replace the building's original plumbing and integrate the new work into plumbing which is more recent.  We must also plan for the future to assure that the YWCA is positioned to provide support and assistance to women and children in need for years to come. The YWCA Preserve and Prosper Fund which is an integral part of this capital campaign can do just that.  While we strive for certainty in an uncertain world, we cannot know what the next 100 years will bring.  Based on our vibrant past, we know that generations to come will look upon their world through windows that foresee a bright future for women in Fort Dodge.

The benefit of your gift to the YWCA today will extend far into the future, empowering sucess and nurturing hope and courage.  To be part of this exciting initiative, please click the link below.  Thank you for believing in the work we do.

Windows on the World Capital Campaign

The Legacy of the YWCA of Fort Dodge

The Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of Fort Dodge has been in existence since 1909 and in its current location since 1914. The three-story building was originally designed to house permanent and transient women. With dorm style private housing throughout, residents shared kitchen, laundry, bath and lounge space. The building also included club rooms and a gymnasium with showers. Thirty-six rooms were available for rent by women coming into the community for education and employment.

YWCA programs and offerings have evolved with the changing needs and interests of women and girls in the area. Early classes and clubs involved “working girls.” The YWCA began the Fort Dodge Business and Professional Women’s Club, the Fort Dodge Business Girl’s Club, and the Young Adult Club. The woman’s movement saw great participation by the Girl Reserves in Fort Dodge, and most notably the Black Girl Reserves. From their inception, YWCA programs have been visionary -- encouraging every woman and girl  to perform at her maximum level to achieve self-sufficiency, maintain healthy habits, empower herself and work toward resolving racial justice issues.
From 1915 to 1943, the YWCA Cafeteria served three meals daily. The cafeteria continued serving meals until 1961. During its peak of operation, the YWCA Cafeteria was recognized as a social center for motorists and the traveling public. From the beginning, young people have utilized the gym for athletics, educational classes, and socializing. Younger children have benefited through dance instruction, summer camps, and weekend activities.                                                                                     
                                                                                                                                   
The YWCA currently operates a homeless shelter for women and children, transitional housing for women and children and substance abuse programming, including a Level III Licensed Halfway House, an Intensive Outpatient and Extended Outpatient Program for women.  

Support services are provided for those living in the facility. Parenting programs for young mothers, children’s programs, and fitness programs are also provided at this time for the public and YWCA members. 

The work of the YWCA has not gone un-noticed in the community. In 1969, a Victorian mansion known as the Vincent House was bequeathed to the YWCA. This beautiful home has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973. The house and its previous owners are intertwined in the community’s history and growth.  The Vincent’s were instrumental in developing the gypsum industry in this part of the country. The house has been maintained in its historical grandeur and is rented out for receptions, weddings, and other types of parties with the proceeds benefiting the YWCA.