YWCA Now Offers Services to Men, Women, Boys and Girls

Just like so many other organizations that were around more than a hundred years ago, things have changed for the YWCA SouthCoast since they opened their doors to girls back in 1911.  The YWCA is the focus of this week's Southcoast Health Community Spotlight.

The center of the YWCA's existence no longer surrounds a swimming pool.  In fact, there is no longer a swimming pool or a gym at their location, but they do so much more.  One of the biggest changes is that the organization also helps boys and men.

"Our focus primarily now focuses on the elimination of racism and the empowerment of women, and we do that now in several different ways.  We also, however, include men and boys in much of our programming." It's important to know that the YWCA is an organization for men and boys, as well as women and girls.

LISTEN:  Gail Fortes Interview with Michael and Maddie

The YWCA just wrapped up their summer programs and is now launching their new after school programs for kids throughout New Bedford.  Fifty-two boys and girls are being served with these after school services this fall.

There are also health and wellness education forums where topics like breast cancer, cervical cancer, and prostate cancer are covered. The after school programs are offered to boys, and the health programs are also offered to men.  There is also a widow's group that includes men.  The YWCA Youth Council is encompassed by both young men and young ladies.  There are plans in the works for a girl's leadership conference and, for the first time, a boy's leadership conference.

Recently, the YWCA has built an addition and opened up two more residential programs serving low income women in the community.  A $5,000 donation from Southcoast Health helped to make this possible.

To get more information or to get involved with teh YWCA SouthCoast, call (508) 999-3255 or visit ywcascma.org.