Introducing our Strong Women For These Times campaign for 2025!

This campaign expands on and reaffirms the YWCA’s founding mission, continuing our legacy of meeting today’s needs. Our programs will equip women with the experiences, training, conversations, and connections needed to build a healthier, more equitable future. From menstrual equity kits and financial education for teens to our monthly speaker series, we’re sending a clear message: supporting and empowering strong women is essential to fostering equity, leadership, and joy in marginalized communities.

Women and femme-identifying individuals of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to engage in this movement as we unite against the systemic forces of racism, sexism, and marginalization.

WHY

NOW?

As a result of rapidly changing political and social times, reaffirming our mission to empower women and eliminate racism is more urgent than ever. As the current administration strips away resources and rights from women, LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and other marginalized communities, it is crucial to build strength and solidarity within our community.

What Are Our Campaign Goals?

Competence. Confidence. Community

  • Gain real-world skills with our career workshops and leadership training designed to help you succeed.

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  • Connect with others through our Speaker Series, social gatherings, and luncheons.

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  • Learn how to manage money confidently with our financial literacy training.

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  • Discover how you can create positive change in your community and personal life.

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  • Join supportive group workshops focused on mental and physical health.

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  • Access free food, beauty, and menstrual products whenever you need them.

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  • Your generosity and involvement help create a stronger, more just world.

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Our Impact on the Berkeley/Oakland Community

Community Clothing Drive

5,383 women’s and children’s clothing items were donated directly to families.

Get Out to Vote!

Over 1,000 community members were educated on the process of voting and the electoral system, registered to vote, and/or voted at our polling center.

Turkey Holiday Giveaway

In partnership with Umoja Health, which generously provided the turkey dinners, the YWCA distributed over $2,700 worth of turkey and produce to low-income families.

The event successfully served over 120 meals to more than 30 families!

Toy Drive

120 children were recorded in benefiting from our annual toy drive.

English in Action

We have EIA partners from 11 countries: China, Colombia, Japan, Mongolia, Myanmar, Norway, Pakistan, Peru, South Korea, Taiwan, and Uzbekistan.

47 partnerships were formed from September 2024 to December 2024.

TINSAE BIRHANU — ADVOCACY INTERN

“Through my involvement in initiatives such as the Get Out to Vote, not only have I been able to gain hands-on experience in event planning and community organizing, but I’ve also had a wonderful time collaborating with a team of dedicated individuals who continue to inspire me in my pursuit in a career rooted in public service!”

ANONYMOUS — CHRISTMAS TOY DRIVE

“This Christmas, as I hold my children close and marvel at the beauty of this season, I will think of you and the difference you made in my life. Your kindness, your generosity, and your unwavering support carried me through my hardest days. You were my family when mine was far away, and for that, I will always be grateful.”

How Can YOU Get Involved?

1.

There are so many ways to get involved, but here are a few options to consider!

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Attend our monthly Speaker Series

Participate in our programming

Stay updated on our campaign

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Nominate a Strong Woman in your life

Spread the word

Follow us on social media, and invite women in your community to join the campaign!

Sponsor an event at the YWCA!

Nominate a STRONG WOMAN in Your Life!

Our Strong Women for These Times campaign not only highlights prominent women figures but also celebrates the invaluable leadership of women in our community that often goes unrecognized. If there's a Strong Woman in your life you’d like to recognize, submit a form below with their information and a message about why they inspire you as a leader. Examples include mothers, aunts, friends, teachers, and more!

You Make It Possible

These events and programs thrive because of community support. Your donation empowers women, provides mentorship, and uplifts marginalized communities.

Every contribution makes a difference — help us continue this vital work!

For over a century, the YWCA Berkeley/Oakland has been at the forefront of the fight for gender and racial equality, and we remain unwavering in our commitment to advancing equity and empowerment. However, we recognize that the fight is far from over, and there is still much work to be done. As we launch the Strong Women for These Times campaign, we honor our legacy while continuing to push forward, ensuring that our work carries on for the next century and beyond.