Contact Fall/Winter 2024

A Message from the CEO

Fall and winter are seasons of change and, for me, a time of reflection. Looking back at this past year at YWCA Metro Vancouver, I’m incredibly proud of what our community has accomplished to advance gender equity. The impact of our employees, volunteers, board members, donors and program participants has been far-reaching.

Of course, this particular fall and winter season brought an election here in BC. Elections are a critical time for us as a society—including at our organization—to reflect on issues that matter most.

Housing Update

CELEBRATING THE GRAND OPENING OF YWCA SANDY SO VISTA

With the opening of YWCA Sandy So Vista, the YWCA now operates 16 housing communities across Metro Vancouver, providing safe and affordable homes for more than 700 residents.

Donor Profile

A LEGACY FROM THE HEART

Sandy So has always been passionate about supporting others. That is why when she heard there was a need for a naming donor for the new YWCA housing community at 388 Slocan Street, she knew this was something she wanted to do.

YWCA Engage Mentorship Hub participants and facilitators with Sandrine Ramoisy of Tips Academy (right).

Employment

NEW MENTORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

The YWCA Engage Mentorship Hub is designed to connect newcomer women with mentors across various industries, offering crucial support to help them expand their professional networks, gain insights into different career paths and enhance their job readiness.

YWCA Annual Cultural Feast hosted by the Racial Equity Committee.

Equity Committees Updates

CELEBRATING PROGRESS

Over the past several months, YWCA Metro Vancouver has hosted numerous events and initiatives celebrating the rich tapestry of cultures and perspectives within our organization. We’ve also made strides in advancing our IDEA goals, which are inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility.

Leanne, Housekeeping Manager (third from the right), with a group of Housekeeping Attendants.

YWCA Hotel

A PLACE TO STAY, A COMMUNITY TO BUILD

At the YWCA Hotel in Vancouver, diversity is not just a buzzword. It is the heartbeat of our operation.

Dancers of Damelahamid. Photo by Suzette Amaya.

Truth & Reconciliation

STORIES OF HOPE AND HEALING

On September 25th, we hosted our second annual Rhythms of Resilience event, in honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.

Learn more

Employment & Partnerships

YWCA GEAR UP TEAMS UP WITH RBC GRANFONDO WHISTLER

This summer, YWCA Gear Up partnered with RBC GranFondo Whistler as their charity of choice.

Carla Newton, Registered Nurse and member of the YWCA Scholarship Committee.

Programs

YWCA BURSARY PROGRAM: GIVING STABILITY TO FAMILIES

When Carla Newton was pregnant, a dream of becoming a labour and delivery nurse took root inside her. But soon after giving birth to her son, her focus shifted to something else: survival.

YWCA Health + Fitness

CONNECTING OVER AQUATICS

Boasting the best pool in downtown Vancouver, the aquatic area is a beautiful environment with natural light and sparkling water from the UV purification. But what makes it extra special is the people you’ll find there—the people who love the water.

Dana Lee Harris with her husband and grandchild - photo submitted.

Legacy Giving

DANA LEE HARRIS: A LEGACY OF EMPOWERMENT

When long-time donor and volunteer Dana Lee Harris was asked if she’d be a guest speaker at a YWCA Legacy event this spring, she responded instantly, saying she’d “do anything for the YWCA.”

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