YWCA Greater Johnstown

06/10/2026

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Vi Najjar, our long time swim instructor and former aquatics director.

Vi had such a big impact on our community and saved countless lives through her swim instruction over 75+ years at the YWCA.

Our thoughts are with her family and friends ❤️

A Johnstown woman who instructed generations of local swimmers has died. Viola Najjar, 95, started volunteering at the YWCA Greater Johnstown during World War II and continued serving as aquatics

06/02/2026

Please share this FREE program for young girls ❤️

05/26/2026

A gentleman once said, “This will never last.”�Thirty-nine years later, we’re still here.
For 39 years, the YWCA of Greater Johnstown has continued its tradition of honoring the incredible women who strengthen our community through leadership, service, compassion, and dedication.
May 21st marked the 39th Tribute to Women, where nine remarkable women were recognized and given the opportunity to share what inspires them. Surrounded by friends, family, and community members, we celebrated not only their accomplishments, but also the passion and purpose they bring to the lives of others every day.
To this year’s honorees: thank you. Your work makes a difference, your voices matter, and your impact will continue to inspire generations to come.
We celebrate you yesterday, today, and in all the days ahead. 🧡🧡

05/25/2026

05/22/2026

This scholarship for graduating seniors was established in honor of Karen Kleinosky, a long-term board member of the YWCA, branch manager at First National Bank, and recipient of the YWCA‘s Yellow Rose Award in 2018. After Karen passed away from breast cancer in 2020 it became clear that Karen’s namesake would be perfect for our organization's inaugural scholarship.

Since 2022, the Karen Kleinosky Scholarship has been awarded to young ladies in Cambria and Somerset Counties. Applicants are asked to write a brief essay on a woman who inspired them and why. These essays are then evaluated anonymously.

This year we had 128 applicants with two (2) winners!

We are excited to announce that the recipients of these $500 scholarships are Molli Lazzari of Westmont and Olivia Hay of Somerset.

Ladies, congratulations and good luck on your future endeavors!

Thank you to the Community Foundation for the Alleghenies. We look forward to reviewing applications again in 2027!

Karen Kleinosky Scholarship - Community Foundation for the Alleghenies (https://www.cfalleghenies.org/karen-kleinosky-scholarship/)

05/08/2026

UJJI 2026: A Call to Action
Join on Zoom today @ 3 pm

This event with YWCA leaders on the Until Justice Just Is Challenge will be live at 3 PM EST. Join us to hear how your meaningful action scan make an immediate and lasting impact.

Why attend?
Deepen your understanding of voting rights as a racial justice issue, learn how local and national advocacy intersect, hear directly from leaders on the frontlines, and leave equipped with practical, actionable steps to make an immediate and lasting impact.

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PEOlgR4hRreK6A--zQ_O9g #/registrationWhy attend?

05/05/2026

This article explains how new voting laws — especially proposals like the SAVE Act — could make it much harder for young people to register and participate in elections. Young voters are more likely to rely on online, mail-in, or DMV-based registration, all of which could be restricted, young people also move more frequently and are less likely to have documents like passports, making these new requirements especially burdensome. These changes would deepen existing barriers and could significantly reduce youth voter turnout.

Authors: Ruby Belle Booth, Sara Suzuki, Alberto Medina, Sam Searles Contributors: Katie Hilton, Nicole Li, Eva Kroh

05/04/2026

Emory Gunby, an 11th-grade student at Bishop McCort Catholic High School, is preparing to receive the sacrament of Confirmation this year at St. Clement Parish. As part of his Confirmation service project, he has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support the YWCA of Greater Johnstown, helping further its mission of providing critical services and support to the local community.

My name is Emory Gunby, and I am a student at Bishop McCort Catholic High School. I am… Tobie Gunby needs your support for Warmth for YWCA: Emory's Fundraiser

05/04/2026

Join us for UJJI 2026: A Call to Action, an event with movement leaders that brings the Until Justice Just Is Challenge full circle.

Register Today!
UJJI 2026: A Call to Action
May 7 at 3 p.m. ET on Zoom

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PEOlgR4hRreK6A--zQ_O9g #/registration