Stories

Charlotte in 1902 was a very, very different place.

No skyscrapers, no light rail, no Panthers, no greenways.

A small town with big dreams — and one organization that’s been here the whole way.

YWCA Central Carolinas has been serving Greater Charlotte for 117 years, and in that time they’ve seen first hand the exceptional change experienced here and around the country.

Through Great Depressions and World Wars, YWCA embraced those who needed it most as they worked to, “eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people.”

For decades, they’ve been a helping hand to the hopeful and crucial ray of light for the hopeless. Offering an opportunity for a better life to those struggling the most.

And while a lot has changed since 1902, YWCA’s commitment to helping women and their families remains as strong as ever. Their Women In Transition program provides safe, affordable housing to single women looking to get back on their feet after any number of life’s hardships.

Women In Transition is not an emergency shelter, and participants pay affordable monthly rent while they look to secure long-term housing options. Women can participate in the program for up to 18 months, gaining valuable life skills and rejuvenating their sense of self-worth.

The program’s goal, first and foremost, is to provide a wide-reaching network of support and educational services that propels these women toward sustainable success in the future.

This is far from the only program YWCA organizes. They touch every corner of our community with kindness and compassion for those desperately in need. For 117 years now — and, with your help, for 117 more, they will continue to fight for equality, empathy, and respect for all people.