Today we serve women, children and families with a century-old message of unity and hope. As we prepare to celebrate a centennial of service to the community, we invite you to join us in a year-long celebration. Click on the links to learn more about our Upcoming Events and our
Here's a quick look at the rich and varied history of the YWCA St. Paul!
1900s - In the BeginningIn 1907, a group of women gathered at the House of Hope Church to form an organization that would "provide physical, social and religious uplift to the young women of the city."
1910s - Making a Home in St. Paul
The YWCA's first building, constructed in 1911 on Fifth Street in downtown St. Paul, included a gym, club and class rooms, an auditorium and an 100-bed residence. In addition to its own programming, the YWCA also fostered the growth of community agencies such as the Hallie Q. Brown Neighborhood Center, Travelers Aid, International Institute, and Capitol Community Services.
1920s – Supporting Women and Women's Organizations
In the 1920s, YWCA programs for women included education in business skills, home arts, physical fitness, and arts and crafts. The YWCA also provided office and meeting space for other women's organizations such as the Campfire Girls and the League of Women Voters.
The financial climate of the 1930s called for a growing focus on YWCA programs for job assistance and counseling, as well as programs for women in business and industry. The YWCA pioneered integration efforts with interracial meetings and programs and hosted the first Festival of Nations in 1932.
1940s - Providing Support on the Home Front
The YWCA was active on the home front in the 1940s, providing support for women entering the labor force as well as support for servicemen and women through the USO and relief efforts.
1950s - Reaching Out to the Community
The 1950s brought a focus on educational and recreational programs, including programming in public housing projects. Other programs of this time included co-ed clubs, Homemaker's Holidays, childcare, fitness, dance and young adult programs.
1960s - Expanding Our Presence in the Community
In 1961, the YWCA opened its new facility on Kellogg Boulevard in St. Paul. Over 18,000 square feet provided space for rooms to rent to women in transition, programming, a full gym and swimming pool, gallery, gift shop, cafe and rental space for organizations such as the Jewish Community Center and Wilder Foundation.
1970 - Helping Women Change Their Lives
The 1970s saw the YWCA focus on helping women move into the job market, an increase in physical education as recreation, and children's programs. The YWCA also assumed sponsorship for the Two-Gether Program (formerly Big Sisters of Ramsey County), which is still going strong today.
1980s - Responding to the Crisis of Homelessness
In the 1980s, the YWCA started the first (and largest) emergency shelter for homeless women and children in the state of Minnesota. Programs included job search workshops, support groups for battered women and children, chemical dependency treatment, and goal planning.
1990s - Strong, Consistent Growth
The YWCA moved to its present location in Summit-University in the 1990s. Many of the current programs started at this time including child care for school-age children (Y's Kids Club), programming for youth (Youth Achievers Program), and the Health and Fitness Center. The Transitional Housing Program expanded its off-site housing facilities, supportive services and the Child Enrichment Center.
2000 and Beyond - Still Making History!
For a century, the YWCA St. Paul has been a vital participant in the community. As we reach our 100th anniversary in 2007, we are spending time to reflect on where we have been and where we are heading. Please join us as we celebrate our centennial year!