Who We Are

The YWCA Rock County is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

We work to bring out the individual strengths of women and youth and to foster resiliency and self-sufficiency. Our philosophy, in keeping with the mission of the YWCA to empower women and families, centers on providing the skills and confidence needed to succeed.

The YWCA is proud to be the oldest and largest women’s movement, providing services for women and their families in our community. Our local programs and services have furthered the YWCA vision of peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all people since 1922. Over the past 100 years our programs have evolved.

YWCA Mission: Eliminating Racism, Empowering Women and Promoting Peace, Justice, Freedom and Dignity for all.

YWCA Vision: Transforming lives and communities through education and action to empower women and dismantle racism.

YWCA Values:

  • Accept and respect personal differences

  • Show kindness, compassion and caring

  • Support each other, so we function as a team of top performers

  • Build connections in a passionate pursuit of our mission

  • Demonstrate personal and professional integrity

YWCA MISSION

Key Dates in YWCA History

  • 1858

    The first association in the U.S., Ladies Christian Association, formed in New York City

  • 1946

    Interracial Charter adopted, starting the process of desegregation

  • 1960s

    Membership and leadership positions opened to non-Christians

  • 1963

    Direct Action Program begun to ensure full desegregation in community YWCAs

  • 1970

    The One Imperative (“To thrust our collective power towards the elimination of racism, wherever it exists, by any means necessary.”) adopted

  • 2015

    Corporate name changed from “Young Women’s Christian Association of the United States of America, Inc.” to “YWCA USA, Inc.”

Annual Reports

YWCA is on a mission to eliminate racism and empower women, and we’re committed to accountability and transparency in everything we do. Below you will find resources that illuminate our financial position, outline how we allocate our resources, and showcase the impact of the valuable support from our donors and sponsors. As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, we welcome your support of our mission!

2022

2022 Annual Impact Report

2023

2023 Annual Impact Report

2024 - 2026 Strategy

YWCA Rock County Strategy

FAQs

  • If you are in immediate danger, call 911. To speak with an advocate, call the 24-hour crisis hotline at (608) 752-2583 or text (608) 371-9288.

  • Yes, women can bring their children. Many families stay at the shelter, which is equipped with toys, reading nooks, play areas, and a playground. However, children (under 18) without a parent, cannot stay at the shelter, but staff will help you find another place to stay. Emancipated minors are welcome to stay at the shelter.

  • Your safety is our top priority. We have inside and outside security cameras, key fob access restricted areas, and a security gate. Our staff and volunteers will always protect your confidentiality.

  • Food, Personal care items Clothing, Linens (sheets, blankets, towels, pillows), Laundry facilities and detergent, Diapers, formula, wipes, and other baby needs

  • Food, Personal care items Clothing, Linens (sheets, blankets, towels, pillows), Laundry facilities and detergent, Diapers, formula, wipes, and other baby needs