YWCA St. Joseph

09/01/2026

📣 𝐂𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐍𝐎𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 📣

YWCA St. Joseph established the Mary Jolly Memorial Award for Outstanding Service to Victims and Survivors of Violence in 2010 in honor of Mary Jolly who passed away on March 7, 2010. Mary was a YWCA employee, cherished friend and long-time advocate for women. Mary served this organization for 10 years working as a domestic violence advocate and was often known as “Grandma Mary” to the residents. She was known for making others laugh, working hard and helping others.

Nominate here: ywcasj.org/maryjolly

08/31/2026

The link between domestic violence and overdose is real, and it deserves attention.

Abuse doesn't only leave visible scars. It can impact mental health, physical health, and increase vulnerability to substance use and overdose. Abusive partners may use drugs, alcohol, or prescription medications as tools of manipulation and control, making it even harder for survivors to seek help.

As we recognize Overdose Awareness Day, let's expand the conversation beyond addiction alone. Prevention means addressing trauma, supporting survivors, reducing stigma, and ensuring people have access to safe housing, healthcare, counseling, and recovery resources.

Every life is worth fighting for.

🧡 Remember those we've lost.
🧡Support those still struggling.
🧡Build communities where healing is possible.

08/31/2026

08/27/2026

One Year of Linda!

We have two reasons to celebrate Linda!

Linda is officially celebrating ONE YEAR with the YWCA St. Joseph, and what a year it has been! She recently stepped into a new role as our Shelter Case Manager, and we couldn't be more excited for her!

Over the past year, Linda has brought kindness, compassion, and a big heart for helping others to our YWCA team. We've loved watching her grow, take on new challenges, and now move into this next chapter with us.

So, help us give Linda a BIG congratulations on 1 year at the YWCA St. Joseph and a new position!

Happy Y-versary Linda! We can't wait to see what year two brings!

08/26/2026

School just started but what a better time for a POP QUIZ! Who was your favorite teacher growing up?

Our YWCA staff are sharing the educators who inspired them, challenged them, and helped them become who they are today. ❤️

Watch the reel, then tell us: 📝 What teacher made the biggest impact on your life?

08/24/2026

As students head back to school, it's important to remember that not every child is starting the year with the same story.

While many children are excited for new teachers, new friends, and new opportunities, others may be carrying burdens we cannot see. Some are adjusting to a new school. Some are navigating the loss of a parent or loved one. Some are experiencing housing instability, family challenges, or the trauma of domestic violence. For these children, back-to-school season can bring uncertainty, anxiety, and fear alongside the excitement.

That's why kindness matters!

A warm welcome, a patient adult, a supportive classmate, or a simple smile can make a meaningful difference in a child's day. When we choose empathy over judgment, we create spaces where children feel safe, valued, and supported.

As a community, let's remember that we may not know the challenges a child or family is facing. This school year, let's lead with compassion, extend grace, and make kindness our first response.

Because every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and hopeful about their future. 🧡

We are here for the best year ever! 🧡💙💚❤️💛

08/21/2026

At YWCA, we believe that investing in people is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen our community. That's why we were proud to sponsor the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce New Leader Lunch and celebrate our new leaders who attended.

A special thank you to keynote speaker Don Tolly, a longtime YWCA supporter, for sharing his insight, experience, and encouragement with the next generation of community leaders. His message was a powerful reminder that leadership is about service, connection, and making a difference where you live and work.

Leadership growth, community connection, and civic engagement all play a vital role in building a stronger St. Joseph. We are excited to support and encourage the next generation of leaders as they make a lasting impact in our community.

08/21/2026

We're celebrating Zach's 2nd anniversary with the YWCA St. Joseph!

As our Youth Programs Manager, Zach Ellis spends much of his time in area schools and organizations providing prevention education and connecting with young people in our community. Over the past year, we've had the chance to watch him really grow into his role, bring new ideas to the table, and put his creativity to work!

Zach is always ready to jump in and help wherever he is needed, all while heading back to school to earn his master's degree!

We're excited to see what year 3 has in store for him!

Help us wish Zach a very happy 2-year Y-Versary!

08/19/2026

🎉 Join us Saturday, August 29th for a FULL day of fun supporting Buchanan County Kids!

🥒 12–5 PM — Pickleball Tournament
🎶 5–7 PM — Music Bingo
🎤 7–10 PM — Live Concert

All happening at Parkway Distillery & River Bluff Brewery!

Every bit of fun raised goes toward the Buchanan County Kids campaign — working to bring a local Children's Services Fund to our county so kids and families here have stronger access to the services they need, right here at home.

Come for the pickleball, stay for the music, and help us build something lasting for Buchanan County's kids.

📋 Full schedule and details on the flyer below!

08/17/2026

Today we're celebrating National Nonprofit Day and every organization across our community working to make lives better, from those fighting hunger and homelessness to advocates for health, education, the arts, children, seniors, and beyond. To the staff, volunteers, and board members who show up every day for missions bigger than themselves: thank you. Consider marking today by volunteering, donating, or simply sharing a shoutout for a nonprofit that's made a difference in your life.