In the Chinese language the word “crisis” is composed of two characters. One represents danger and the other, opportunity. At YWCA of Rochester and Monroe County in New York for the women, men, and families coming to them in crisis this organization takes this crisis as an opportunity to find positive ways to help these individuals, some with their children, who are faced with significant challenges including homelessness and teen pregnancy. In the early years YWCA primarily served women and girls. Now they are open and inclusive to provide support and services to men and boys. Their mission is “to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.” I had the honor to meet with Carrie Michel-Wynne, VP of Strategic Partnerships, to tour this organization and learn more about the special place.
“There’s a moment where you have to choose to be silent or stand up.” Malaia Yousafzal
At the core of everything YWCA does is the work of racial justice. This trauma responsive organization has dedicated time, effort, training of staff along with designing all areas to promote safe, welcoming spaces. The artwork on the walls of the building is filled with diversity and are often pieces residents have made. The color and textures are purposely chosen to be calming and healing. YWCA’s signature color is persimmon, which symbolizes kindness and longevity, is used throughout the building and in all of its materials. They understand the black and brown women and men they serve have experienced racial trauma along with all of their other traumatic experiences. In order to properly serve and support the people who come to them for help, all people and spaces had to reflect racial justice and racial equality work. Training for staff, which is ongoing, helps staff to understand their prejudices and biases. Cultural humility and person centered practices are core to all interactions and communication. The “Theory of Change” model is the criteria for how YWCA plans how they do what they do. In the 140 years of serving the community of Rochester this organization continues to work at evolving to meet the community needs.
“I’m no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept.” Angela Davis
YWCA also has embedded in everything they do the power of partnership, fellowship, and accessibility. This organization knows that working closely with community stakeholders and allies gives depth to their actions and programs. From bringing programming to churches to help improve health equity to utilizing the skills and knowledge of residents in the advisory council they are open to exploring opportunities to combine resources to better serve the community. YWCA identifies ways to partner with private landlords for properties that can become affordable housing. There is a program that brings traditional services for people into private housing. This organization looks for common sense solutions that are inclusive for all and utilizes resources in creative, helpful ways. Mission partnership opportunities are available for community members to help support YWCA in a variety of ways. YWCA envisions a world of opportunity where “women, girls, and people of color are Equal-Powerful-Unstoppable” by working with dedication and determination to transform institutions.
“Our unity is our strength, and our diversity is our power.” Kamala Harris
YWCA provides a full continuum of supportive housing. There is emergency housing, long-term affordable housing, steppingstone supportive living, health homes case management along with the Bridges Home and TAPESTRY collaborative supportive housing programs. There is housing for women, housing for men, and housing for families. In partnership with OASAS specific spaces and housing are dedicated to supporting women in recovery. Young adults have services geared to meet their needs. YWCA partners with URMC, CCSI and Aenon Baptist church to provide an innovative approach to healthcare. Equity Through Development is a unique 10 week life skill development program that teaches skills on fundraising and resume writing for people of color who work with a mentor and are matched as apprentices in a host agency. Part of their racial equity work includes providing a toolkit for change, a toolkit for healing, and an equity engagement series. The YWCA “demands a world of equity and human decency.” Their words, actions, and work reflect this.
“Don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them.” Madam C.J. Walker
Carrie took me a tour of this special organization and we were joined by Tiny, a long term resident of YWCA. The bonds of love and respect between Carrie and Tiny spoke volumes about the care and concern people have for another. As we toured I could feel the hum of love, the magic of compassion, and the roar of the incredibly challenging work going on to dismantle oppression. The strength, compassion, grit, and resolve of YWCA, and the people they serve who show up even when showing up is really hard, is the life force of this organization.
It is with honor and admiration we shine the Kindness Champion spotlight on YWCA of Rochester and Monroe County where every day they are making a difference by changing lives in the community. We thank you for being you and bringing your awesome to the world.
For more information on the amazing YWCA here is their information:
Website: https://www.ywcarochester.org/
Twitter: @YWCA_Rochester https://twitter.com/YWCA_Rochester
Facebook: @YWCArochester https://www.facebook.com/YWCArochester/
LinkedIn: YWCA of Rochester & Monroe County https://www.linkedin.com/company/ywca-of-rochester-&-monroe-county/
