Chartered in 1911, the YWCA Black Hawk County, a private non-profit organization, has played an important role in our community, serving thousands of children, youth and adults yearly. Our programs are rooted in the YWCA’s mission to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. The majority of the individuals we serve come from the most vulnerable and at-risk populations of our community – families, children and youth living in poverty; young single parents; immigrants and refugees with little income and little or no English language skills; senior citizens on fixed incomes; girls and young women looking to make a positive start in life and families who have come to be known as the working poor. Located at 425 Lafayette Street in downtown Waterloo since 1924, the YWCA’s current programs support our vision that Cedar Valley women and girls are strong, impactful leaders and instruments of change in their community; creating opportunities and providing resources for all to reach their greatest potential and include: character development and prevention programs for elementary and middle school aged females; before and after school child care and full day summer child care for elementary school-aged children; case management and English language instruction for immigrant and refugee families; parenting education and support for at-risk parents; and a wide variety of classes, activities and educational opportunities directed toward the health and wellness of women and their families.
