YWCA Champaign County

06/15/2026

Pride Month Spotlight Post 🌈

The Japanese YWCA building at 1830 Sutter Street in San Francisco, designed by Julia Morgan and completed in 1932, is a historic landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2020. Originally established by Japanese immigrant women in 1912 to serve their community’s social and service needs, it stands as a rare symbol of Nikkei women’s struggles and achievements in the U.S. Despite segregationist policies preventing ownership, the building was funded by community efforts and donations. Throughout its history, it has played a vital role in advancing civil rights, supporting Japanese Americans during WWII, and fostering social activism, including connections to the African American civil rights and LGBTQ movements. Its architectural significance and rich history reflect the resilience and contributions of Japanese American women and the broader community.

06/11/2026

Did you know that Civil Rights Activist Pauli Murray stayed at YWCA Harlem when she was attending Hunter College? She was a pivotal figure for racial and social justice that led the YWCA movement to what it is today. This month we honor her legacy and contributions to our society and are proud to have played a small role in her journey.
Learn more here:

Pauli Murray was breaking barriers from a young age. Held back by what Murray dubbed “Jane Crow,” s/he was a staunch advocate for the rights of women and people of color and fought tirelessly for civil rights.

06/10/2026

Pride Month Spotlight Post 🌈

Pauli Murray (1910 –1977) was a pioneering African American civil rights activist, legal scholar, poet, and author. She was a trailblazer in the fight for racial and gender equality, advocating for social justice and justice reform throughout her life. Murray was the first African American woman to earn a JD from Yale Law School and was a co-founder of the National Organization for Women (NOW). Her work and writings have had a lasting impact on civil rights, gender equality, and social justice.

06/08/2026

Strong communities are built when people look out for one another. During , we affirm our commitment to creating spaces where every person is welcomed, valued, and safe, including our LGBTQ+ neighbors. Respect and belonging make us stronger together. 🏳️‍🌈

06/05/2026

YWCA’s journey is rooted in growth, courage, and inclusion—and Pride is a vital part of that story. This , we celebrate LGBTQ+ leaders across the country who live authentically and lead boldly. We are proud to stand with you, today and every day.

06/01/2026

At YWCA, our commitment to peace, justice, freedom, and dignity includes equity and equality for our LGBTQ+ community.

During , we honor LGBTQ+ lives, leadership, and voices. Thank you for your immense contributions to the fabric of our nation.

05/18/2026

This , YWCA celebrates the leaders, trailblazers, and everyday

heroes whose stories inspire us to keep pushing for change. Share your AAPI hero with us in the comments!

05/14/2026

AAPIH Heritage Month Spotlight !!
Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu is a Native Hawaiian cultural practitioner, educator, and advocate. As a Kumu Hula and community leader, she works tirelessly to preserve Hawaiian culture, language, and traditions. Hinaleimoana is a powerful voice for indigenous rights and AAPI communities, inspiring many through her leadership and dedication to cultural revitalization.

You can learn more about her in the documentary Kumu Hina directed and produced by Dean Hamer and Joe Wilson. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Zeond28-UA

05/11/2026

YWCA of Champaign County has a proud history of supporting Asian American Pacific Islander communities by celebrating their cultures, honoring their contributions, and empowering women and girls through dedicated programs like STRIVE Digital Skills Classes. Our herstory is built on fostering resilience, connection, and leadership within AAPI communities right here in Urbana-Champaign

05/10/2026

This Mother’s Day, we celebrate the strength, love, and resilience of mothers and caregivers in our community. We also recognize the challenges they still face every day.

We invite you to honor a mother, caregiver, or someone who has made a difference in your life in the comments below.

Thank you to all of our mothers, to the caregivers and to those who fulfill the role of Mom. May you feel celebrated and honored each and every day.

-The YWCA of Champaign County