OUR FORMAL MISSION STATEMENT

The YWCA USA is a women's membership movement nourished by the richness of many beliefs and values. Strengthened by diversity, the YWCA draws together members who strive to create opportunities for women's growth, leadership, and power in order to attain a common vision: peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all people. The YWCA will thrust its collective power toward the elimination of racism.

WE PREPARE THE WOMEN OF TODAY TO SUPPORT THE WOMEN OF TOMORROW

Since 1900, the YWCA has opened doors of opportunity to women for growth, leadership and power to change.  Today, over a century later, the YWCA is the largest and oldest women's membership organization in the State of Hawai‘i.  The YWCA O‘ahu is a charter member of the YWCA USA and is one of more than 300 community associations nationwide that share the mission of empowering women and eliminating racism.  Now, a new core of women are preparing for our future and are committed to reinventing the YWCA for the 21st century so it is relevant to all women as their lives and needs change. The YWCA offers a unique place - a place where women and girls can build relationships for life and have opportunities to move forward in life and give back to their community.  Three centers at the YWCA, Fernhurst, Kokokahi and Laniākea, provide valuable programs and services that develop women and girls' social, economic, leadership and community building skills. 

ECONOMIC ADVANCEMENT, LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT, SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT & RACIAL JUSTICE

We stand up for social justice, help families, and strengthen communities. We help to ensure that women can support themselves and provide for their families and offer tools, training and guidance so that women can realize their dreams. Our members are women who, in turn, go on to contribute to their communities and beyond. We increase opportunities for community participation through recreation, education, giving and volunteering. We are bridging racial and cultural divides in order to realize a peaceful, harmonious and productive community.

YWCA O‘ahu Economic Advancement programs provide opportunities for professional growth for women transitioning from challenging life circumstances. YWCA Fernhurst is a community-based work furlough program and transitional housing for women reentering society after incarceration. Dress for Success Honolulu provides resources and support to women looking for employment.

If you or a woman you know is experiencing job loss and would like to be referred to Dress for Success Honolulu, email dfsh@ywcaoahu.org.

Funded by the Small Business Administration, the Patsy T. Mink Center for Business & Leadership (MCBL) promotes the advancement of women entrepreneurs at all levels and stages in their careers. The U.S. Department of Commerce, MBDA Enterprising Women Business Center provides women entrepreneurs with resources aimed at facilitating access to contracts and funding for medium-sized minority businesses.