What We Do
Everything we do at YWCA Evanston/North Shore is based on the belief that all women have the right to be safe and choose the direction of their lives. Our programs address the fact that far too many women experience violence, and lack economic security, and these issues disproportionately impact women of color. If we want to empower all women, we must also tackle racism.
We work proactively to transform individual lives through direct service and education and to change institutions through training and advocacy.
All of our programs address three overlapping areas of focus: Racial Justice and Civil Rights, Economic Empowerment of Women, and Health and Safety for Women and Girls.
Learn more about our work by watching the video below:
Read our 2018 Annual Impact Report below:
At YWCA Evanston/North Shore, we're committed to eliminating racism and empowering women. Join us for the Ricky Byrdsong Memorial Race Against Hate, one of the nation's largest events of its kind. Register by June 13th or on Race day. Proceeds support racial equity and violence prevention programs. Together, let's create a more just and inclusive society. Click the link in bio to learn more! #EndRacism #EmpowerWomen #SocialJustice
Join us for the 2023 Ricky Byrdsong Memorial Race Against Hate! Lace up your shoes, stand against racial hatred, and make a difference. Register by June 13th or at the packet pick-ups the week before. All proceeds benefit racial equity and violence prevention programs at YWCA Evanston/North Shore. Click the link in our bio to learn more! #RaceAgainstHate #UnityInAction #StandAgainstRacism
๐ฃ A message from Cherese Ledet, President and CEO of YWCA Evanston/North Shore! Every day, your contributions make an impact on the women and families we serve. Our June 30 fundraising deadline is quickly approaching, and we need your help to reach our goal. ๐ค Watch the video to see firsthand how your gifts are helping to eliminate racism and empower women, and click the link in our bio to give your support before our deadline!
Join the conversation for change! ๐ฃ๏ธโ YWCA Evanston/North Shore presents Impacting the Trajectory of Violence featuring Sherialyn Byrdsong and CEO, Chrese Ledet. Please join us for the Race Against Hate 2023 kickoff event on June 15th, 2023 from 9am-11pm CST. Register for this free hybrid event, either in-person or virtually, and be part of the movement for a safer, more equitable, and anti-racist society.
Calling all aspiring chefs in Chicagoland! ๐๐ฝ๏ธ YW Culinary is your ticket to a free 12-week job training program, unlocking your potential in the vibrant food service industry. Gain culinary skills, connect with classmates, and earn your ServSafe Food Handler's Certification. ๐๐ช Join us for our next information session on May 31st, 2023 at 11am! Check out the link in our bio for more information.
Remembering Oswald Roper, a true champion of swimming and children's safety in the water. His legacy lives on through the Oswald Roper Memorial Fund, the Oz Swim Meet, and the 24-hour Relay for Oz. These initiatives ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn to swim. ๐โโ๏ธ๐ Join us in honoring his commitment to aquatics outreach and scholarships. Here are some pictures of the participants from the Oz Relay this past Friday.
Did you know 9 out of 10 companies have a matching gift program that could easily double or even triple your donation and expand your impact? A gift of any size can make a big difference! Click the link in our bio to give and contact your HR department to see if your company will match!