March 2012 Y's Words

As spring approaches, I’m reminded of the warmth, gratitude, and happiness we have in our hearts after receiving so much support from the community in just the past few months. Many of you have written letters to the state legislature to keep our services available despite budget cuts, and we’ve heard that these messages are making an impact. In addition, the Classic Wines Auction, our largest fundraising event, has just finished. The success of this event is all due to the volunteers, board members, donors and staff whose passion for our community goes unmatched.

Opportunities for support are blossoming all around ywca clark county. April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month as well as Child Abuse and Prevention Awareness Month – both of which keep us busy with outreach and prevention. The Sexual Assault Program will have a number of activities in April including the second annual Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) art contest, while our CASA Program invites you to learn how you can help children in our community at the April 13th, “I am for the Child”, event.

Volunteer Appreciation Week is April 16-22 and our director of volunteer development, Stephanie Barr, has some amazing testimonials to share in this month’s newsletter. April is also the launch of our second annual Spring Campaign where we ask our community to continue supporting our vital services with a financial contribution. Your employer may match or double your donation. See the employer match article to learn  more.

As we look forward to more sun, warmer weather and new opportunities, I invite you to  reflect on our hallmark initiatives of racial justice  and women’s economic advancement. At the core of every YWCA nation-wide are these two initiatives and we’re looking forward to embracing them even more in the coming year.

As you  root around in your garden this spring, think about the bounty of opportunities available to grow the future of our community. Together with just a bit of water, a hint of sun, and a rich foundation we can be the change.