Stand Against Racism 2021 |
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April is always a busy month at YWCA Boulder County. Most importantly, it’s when we celebrate Stand Against Racism, which takes place annually in April and is a signature YWCA USA campaign. We participate in Stand Against Racism to raise awareness about the negative impact of institutional and structural racism in our society, and to build community among those who work for racial justice. The campaign also fits into our mission of eliminating racism.
Duante Wright. Breonna Taylor. George Floyd. Say Their Names. Black Lives Matter. Now more than ever, racism is a public health crisis. That’s why our 2021 Stand Against Racism campaign centers around a new theme: From Declarations to Change: Addressing Racism as a Public Health Crisis. Public health is and always has been central to racial justice work. This year our theme is especially relevant as we continue to face the intersecting public health crises of COVID-19 and racism.
And with these challenges, it's never been more important for all of us to take action to create positive change in our communities, our country, and our world. We are calling on you to make a commitment to Stand Against Racism and take action this year. We look forward to seeing all the incredible ways each of you will act to end racism and help the rest of the world to see women, girls, and people of color the way we do: EQUAL. POWERFUL. UNSTOPPABLE.
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Stand Against Racism 2021- April 22 - 25 |
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Environmental Racism and Health Disparities Panel and Discussion
Thursday, April 22 | 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Zoom Link Will Be Sent After Registration
Join us on Thursday, April 22nd from 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. to kick off our #StandAgainstRacism campaign by sparking discussions around the connections between racism and public health outcomes. We'll also discuss how to implement public health practices to effectively identify and address racial injustice in our communities.
Please join us in watching the YouTube video, “One Reason Why Coronavirus Hits Black People the Hardest” by Vox ahead of time to help inform and guide our discussion. The video centers around what is known as “Cancer Alley” in Louisiana, one of the biggest cases of environmental racism in the United States and how those communities have been affected by COVID-19. On Thursday, we will come together via Zoom to discuss the video with a knowledgeable group of panelists.
PANELISTS INCLUDE:
- Irene V. Blair, Professor and Chair of Psychology and Neuroscience, CU Boulder - Stereotyping, Prejudice and Discrimination Researcher
- Elena P. Aranda, Director of Health Equity & Education, El Centro Amistad
- Thelma Craig, Co-founder and Chair of the Board of Directors for the Colorado Black Health Collaborative (CBHC)
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YWCA Boulder County strives to be inclusive of all. If you need accommodations or assistance in your preferred language, please don’t hesitate to contact Karina Corral at kcorral@ywcaboulder.org. We are happy to help! |
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Other Stand Against Racism Activities |
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Stay tuned for more details about our other Stand Against Racism week activities, including:
- Friday, April 23: Advocacy Day
- Saturday, April 24: Support BIPOC* Businesses Day
- Sunday, April 25: Family Action Day
Register above to receive details on these Stand Against Racism activities!
*Black, Indigenous, People of Color
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STEM E3 Coding Cohorts Off to a Great Start |
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Last year in the midst of the pandemic we transitioned all of our STEM E3 activities to an online platform. This spring, our STEM E3 program has been off to a great start, including a February Jam Session in partnership with NIST and attended virtually by 31 students. We heard from women of color who work at NIST and they shared with the participants what they do, why they love it and how they got where they are today.
We currently have 32 students from SVVSD and BVSD participating in our first seven-week Coding Cohort program of 2021. During these seven-week Cohort programs, students and instructors come together for an hour each week to learn more about coding, computer science and STEM, and then the students continue to learn and complete badges through the online Curated Pathways program developed by YWCA Silicon Valley. With several weeks still to go in the Cohort, one student has already finished all the badges and asked for more assignments!
Last summer, during pandemic restrictions and with the closure of many typical summer camps, we were proud to be able to offer our Coding Summer Camp to students online.
One student, Joselyn, shared her experience with the program with us:
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“I was in 6th grade when I participated in STEM E3. I decided to participate because I was interested in learning something new. My experience with STEM E3 was meaningful to me because it gave me an idea of something I might want to do in the future, and it helped me gain confidence and new skills. Something that stood out to me about STEM E3 that I would like others to experience is the experience to problem solve and to have fun and learn at the same time. After participating in STEM E3, I’ve been interested in STEM related activities and I do see myself being in more STEM and computer science related classes in the future. I personally do see myself pursuing a STEM or computer science related career in the future, and I think STEM E3 for that.“ |
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After that summer program, we are proud to share that Joselyn has really sprouted as a leader in the STEM world, especially in the Longmont community. She not only helped with a coding event called "Abriendo Puertas" organized by The City of Longmont Youth Center and the Innovation Center, but is also helping to create and execute more coding events starting in the fall. This is exactly why we love our STEM E3 program so much and look forward to seeing more of our students learn and grow into amazing young women. |
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YWCA's Dancing with Boulder Stars - June 8, 2021 |
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We are thrilled to announce the date for our 2021 YWCA Dancing with Boulder Stars event - Tuesday, June 8, 2021!
Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more information. We are planning to do our first ever hybrid event at the Boulder Theater, with Screening Tickets for entire households to watch from home and a limited number of VIP Live In-Person Studio Tickets to be a part of our socially distanced Live Studio Audience at the Boulder Theater.
Sponsorships available now! Sponsorship opportunities are flexible and come with a host of benefits including complimentary tickets, promotion to our supporters and partnership with one of the oldest nonprofits in Boulder County. If your business or someone you know is interested, please contact Robyn Hazlitt at rhazlitt@ywcaboulder.org.
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Upcoming "Being an Anti-racist Virtual Training" |
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We have another series of our popular Being an Anti-racist training starting soon. This training series is for individuals who are committed to learning more about the personal, interpersonal, institutional and structural systems of racism that can lead to informed action and community transformation to end racism.
A $100 Donation per ticket covers the cost for all three sessions of the training.
We ask that participants commit to attending all three sessions when they register, since the information will build on previous sessions.
Fridays, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Please note the following new class dates: April 23, May 7, and May 21, 2021
After registering, you will receive an email with the video call-in information a couple days before the session.
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Now offering Organizational Trainings
We are now offering our Being an Anti-racist Training Series for organizations. If your business or organization would like to receive an individualized training, please contact Shiquita Yarborough at syarbrough@ywcaboulder.org to learn more and for pricing information. |
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Thank You Reading to End Racism Volunteers! |
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Next week is National Volunteer Appreciation Week and, on behalf of everyone at YWCA Boulder County, we would like to thank all of our incredible volunteers who are involved with all our programs. We couldn't do the work we do without you! Thank you for donating your time, hard work and passion in service of our mission to eliminate racism and empower women.
Our spring Reading to End Racism Reading Days have wrapped up for the semester and we are so grateful to our wonderful RER Volunteers! YOU make this program possible and impactful! To celebrate our first ever VIRTUAL semester of RER, we wanted to share some wonderful quotes from the young people who took part in this program (in all their unedited glory):
- "You should always be an ally to people that are being bullied or hurt even if they are your least favorite person DON'T JUDGE PEOPLE BY THEIR LOOKS!!!"
- "That we really are all the same if we just take of our skins. and there is a melanin in your body that makes you black, white, or African american and more."
- "that the color of your skin comes from something called melanin. witch i thought was really cool. it makes your skin a certain color."
- "I learned that black kids had to go to different schools then white kids and the schools for the white kids were much, much nicer."
- "Be kind to others, everyone is fighting their own battle."
- "If you see something not right happening do something about it."
- "to be nice and not mean and stick up for people who cant stand up to them selfs"
From their teachers:
- "The students love it when they're presented with personal stories and given the opportunity to share their own stories/connections. Their engagement becomes that much stronger."
- "So happy you offered the program this year. Especially this year, so great for the kiddos to interact with a member of the community. "
If you have any questions, or would like to volunteer with RER in the Fall, please email Karina Corral at kcorral@ywcaboulder.org. |
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YWCA Boulder County is proud to support some exciting Senate and House bills. Learn more about them below and contact your legislators to show your support!
Colorado YWCA Boulder County Legislative Priorities
- Concerning protections for Colorado workers against discriminatory employment practices.
- Removes firearms from the possession of domestic abusers
- Supporting agricultural workers (specifically women and young families) to ensure they have protections and human rights, including the right to work in a safe workplace free of harassment.
Updates:
- Passed in the House (4/1)
- Introduced in the Senate and assigned to the Judiciary Committee (4/6)
Updates:
- Approved by the Senate Health and Human Services Committee by a vote of 4 to 3 (3/22)
- Move to the Senate Appropriations Committee
Updates:
- Approved by the Senate Health and Human Serivces Committee by a vote of 4 to 3 (3/22)
- Moved to the Senate Appropriations Committee
Updates:
- Sent to the Governor for signature (4/8)
Early Childhood Education Budget Items:
- Support for Early Childhood Educator Workforce
- $1.2 million to create and fund a recruitment and retention grant and scholarship program for ECE educators
- Early Childhood Educator Salary Increase
- $3 million to create and implement a pilot program studying the impact of subsidized wages for ECE educators
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Donate your tax refund with ReFUND CO |
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Do you expect a state income tax refund?
Now you can donate some or all of it! It's a simple and fast way to support YWCA Boulder County. Visit refundwhatmatters.org to learn more and to find the nonprofit registration number to enter on your tax return. When you complete your state tax return, enter Registration #20023006070 for YWCA Boulder County.
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Persimmon Early Learning - Open Enrollment |
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- Small class sizes and low teacher-student ratios of 1:5
- Experiential, play-based program with Storybook Journey curriculum that supports child-led interests and child development
- Colorado Shines Level 4 rating
- Highly qualified teaching team works to strengthen all areas of child growth and pre-academic skills including: social-emotional, gross and fine motor, early literacy, STEM, and social studies
- Twice-yearly parent/teacher conferences and daily communication
- Daily Active Play, Movement, and Nutrition Lessons with our Wellness Coordinator
- Healthy snacks and meals prepared daily on-site by our Nutrition Coordinator
- Certified HEAL (Healthy Eating, Active Living) and Breastfeeding Friendly Program
Visit our website and fill out our Interest Form to sign up for an Info Session, be notified of Virtual Tours, and begin the enrollment process today.
Online Parent Info Sessions will be held virtually every other Wednesday. Please contact Kate Hise for upcoming dates. For additional questions, please email Kate Hise at: khise@ywcaboulder.org.
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Sign up for Persimmon Grove - Our Parent eNews |
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Once a quarter we bring our Persimmon Early Learning classrooms to you with Persimmon Grove, our eNews for parents. Hear what each classroom has been focused on, and learn nutrition and wellness tips too! |
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Meet the Staff: April Norman |
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We are thrilled to announce that April will also be competing as a Celebrity Contestant in our upcoming YWCA Dancing with Boulder Stars competition on June 8! We look forward to supporting all her hard work, both inside and outside the classroom, in service to our programs and services.
What’s your title?
My title is Toddler Teacher.
When did you join the team at YWCA Boulder County?
I joined the YWCA Boulder County team in March 2021.
What do you do at the YWCA?
I’m currently setting up a new classroom for young toddlers. I’m creating a welcoming environment where all children can be engaged, encouraged, and included. Eventually, I will be able to set up a new preschool room as well!
What’s your favorite thing about YWCA Boulder County?
My favorite thing about YWCA Boulder County is the people who work here and the organization’s mission, which sets a great example for young children. It's empowering knowing the YWCA encourages inclusivity for all and helps to uplift the women in our community.
What’s something people may not know about you?
I’m a certified yoga instructor who thinks the best place to practice yoga is outdoors. It's a great way to balance the mind and body with nature.
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Early Childhood Education Teachers - Persimmon Early Learning of the YWCA needs ECT-qualified teachers for our new toddler and preschool classrooms. $1,000 signing bonus, small class sizes, and great benefits!
Persimmon Early Learning of the YWCA offers high-quality, affordable child care, and expanded indoor and outdoor learning areas. It provides a nurturing, creative space for children to learn and grow in redesigned and expanded indoor and outdoor learning areas. The program emphasizes parent engagement and education, health equity through scheduled activities and active play time, and good nutrition modeling and activities including diverse and healthy meal plan.
For additional info, email Kate Hise at khise@ywcaboulder.org, or call Persimmon Early Learning: (303) 449-1951. |
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Thank you Gala Sponsors,
Lily's Sweets and Twisted Foundation!
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Thank you, Lily's Sweets and Twisted Foundation, for being our Silver Screen level Sponsors of our 2021 Gala!
Your generous support and sponsorship helps us make an impact in our community.
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Want to share how YWCA Boulder County has impacted your life? |
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Have you, your child or someone you know benefited from a YWCA program or service? Would you like to help YWCA Boulder County reach more families and serve more people in our community?
We love hearing from people who are involved with our programs, and love sharing personal stories and testimonials with grant funders, donors and in our communications with the community. Please contact Robyn Hazlitt at rhazlitt@ywcaboulder.org to share your story or testimonial. |
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YWCA Boulder County Events
Community Events
- April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month
- April is Arab American Heritage Month
- April 12, 2021 - Ramadan begins. Wishing all who celebrate it "Ramadan Mubarak", or a Happy Ramadan!
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Racial Justice History
Built in the 1920s and located along South Boulder Creek west of Eldorado Springs, Colorado, Lincoln Hills was one of a few black resorts in the U.S. (and the only one west of the Mississippi River). Accessible by both car and train, the resort was a thriving vacation destination for black Americans until 1965 when Winks Lodge, its main hotel and tavern, closed and civil rights legislation opened new vacation opportunities for blacks in America.
Photo credit: ColoradoEncyclopedia.com
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Thank you City of Boulder Housing and Human Services |
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Thank you City of Boulder Housing and Human Services Department for your grant funding for Persimmon Early Learning (formerly Children's Alley)! |
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Thank YOU for your support! |
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Make a Donation to YWCA Boulder County
Our work would not be possible without the support of passionate individuals and businesses like you, who support our programs and services.
Contact us to learn more about donating stock or other assets, donating through your employers giving program or becoming an event sponsor.
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Non-cash Ways to Support the YWCA
- Give from your Donor Advised Fund
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Shop at smile.amazon.com and select YWCA Boulder County
- Sign up for King Soopers Community Rewards and select YWCA Boulder County
- Donate your vehicle to YWCA Boulder County through Vehicles for Charity
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Buy items from our Amazon Wishlist and ship them directly to our office
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