Ywca Minneapolis

Early childhood education program (ece): high-quality nationally accredited early childhood education is provided by the Ywca to families across the twin cities community. During the year ended june 30, 2023, five Ywca children's centers served 617 children, ages 6 weeks to 12 years old, from 445 families. Four of the centers are community-based with a focus on serving diverse children living in low-income households. Knowing school readiness begins at birth, experienced professional classroom teachers partner with families to prepare children to excel in school and life. Ywca curriculum is culturally celebratory, incorporating anti-bias values and conflict resolution skills that equip children for success. Learning opportunities are incorporated into every part of the day promoting social and emotional development, language and literacy development, creativity and the arts, cognitive development, physical and motor skills. Teachers regularly assess all children to ensure age-appropriate development and school readiness using national, research-based assessment tools. Early childhood education teacher workforce development program:this program provides access to comprehensive training and support for participants to complete a child development associate (cda) a foundational post-secondary credential for pursuing a career in early childhood education. This training opportunity provides a professional career pathway for successful participants, all of whom live in low-income households with 70% or more identifying as people of color. Most enrollees will be working to enter or re-enter the workforce and many are single mothers. During the year ended june 30, 2023, 141 individuals enrolled in the program, 111 people completed the program successfully, and 64 people obtained a cda in early childhood education.

Girls and youth: girls and youth programs equip youth with the skills and experience to nurture their confidence, relationships and power to be leaders in their lives and communities. Seven culturally responsive girls and youth programs use research-based program design focused on increasing school connectedness, teaching positive decision-making skills, developing leadership skills, supporting social and emotional development and strengthening physical health. Professionally trained youth workers become trusted adults in the lives of the 900+ young people served by these programs. Through an affiliation with the national girls inc. organization, girls inc. at Ywca delivers life-changing programs inspiring girls to be strong, smart, and bold. A curriculum designed to meet the developmental needs of girls integrates academic success in stem (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), financial literacy, leadership development, and healthy decision-making. This multifaceted approach creates an enriching and fun community that supports girl-led learning, great friendships, and personal growth.

Health and wellness: the health and wellness of our community is improved through welcoming, supportive and inclusive programming at three urban fitness centers staffed by certified personal trainers, experienced fitness instructors, industry-leading aquatics coaches, and endurance sports specialists. These professionals annually help approximately 11,000 members of all ages and abilities find the best workout program to achieve their fitness goals. In addition, 1,050+ community members participated in classes and clinics on cpr, first aid, lifeguard certifications, swimming instruction, personal training, endurance sports, and other specialty topics to enhance their personal well-being. Sliding-fee memberships provide access to individuals and families from low-income households. Creating accessible opportunities for health and wellness has been a cornerstone of the Ywca since its founding. In light of the on-going impact of the global covid-19 pandemic, the Ywca adjusted its classes and programs to both on-site and virtual formats so that members could support their well-being during stressful times at a location of their choosing. In 2023, the Ywca held its 14th annual Ywca Minneapolis triathlon, with approximately 1,000 women and non-binary triathletes who registered for the event. The race attracted participant's ages 11 to 80+ with varying levels of experience and diversity

Racial justice and public policy: for more than a decade the Ywca has led the community in eliminating racism by creating space for meaningful and open dialogue about racism and privilege. The racial justice program brings together courageous community leaders and members to engage in meaningful conversations to improve race relations where they work and live. Throughout the year ended june 30, 2023, approximately 1,000 individuals engaged in ywca-led public forums, community dialogues, workshops and trainings and were empowered to act toward building equitable and inclusive workplaces and communities. In october 2022, nearly 800 people registered to virtually attend the 20th annual it's time to talk: forums on race. Inspired by the keynote presentation, attendees engaged in professionally facilitated dialogues about equity and inclusion leaving the event empowered to take action. Throughout the year ended june 30, 2023, approximately 130 people attended the it's time to act! Forum series, which empowered participants to engage in deeper conversations around race, equity, faith, and social justice issues. Through inc.ludetm equity and inclusion consulting services, 31 clients engaged in diversity, equity and inclusion efforts that included 400+ individuals.