Unsung SouthCoast Women to Be Celebrated by YWCA

This week's Southcoast Health Community Spotlight shines on the YWCA and the leadership of Executive Director Gail Fortes. The mission of the YWCA is to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

Summer Programs That Inspire

“In the summertime our biggest program is our child care program,” Fortes said. “It’s all-day, serving 52 children ages five through thirteen every Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.”

“We do some education, but we also focus on fun experiences like going to the beach, inviting speakers to talk about their jobs, and welcoming visits from the police and their K-9s," she said. "We also take downtown walking trips. The kids love visiting City Hall and riding the old elevator, going to the library, and learning about Abolition Row.”

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Honoring Women Who Make a Difference

The YWCA’s biggest events happen in October, including the annual Women of Distinction ceremony. Community members can nominate local women who are making a difference, often behind the scenes.

“They’re doing a lot of wonderful, amazing things that really nobody knows about,” Fortes said. “That’s one of my favorite days, when I get to make those calls. A lot of them say, ‘What, me?’ Or they cry and say, ‘Wow, someone’s actually paying attention to this work.’ Because they’re not doing it for applause. They’re doing it because they want to make a difference.”

Nominations are open now and are due by September 1. You can make your nomination on the New Bedford YWCA website.