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Greetings Kim,
Thank you for your interest in staying in the loop of what's happening at YWCA Cambridge. As anyone who has opened previous newsletters would know, we're a small team, but we manage to achieve a whole lot!
The last couple of months have been eventful and encouraging. We saw the passing into second reading of Bill 173: The Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, signaling a growing acknowledgement of the crisis levels of gender-based violence in our province.
More locally, we at YWCA Cambridge have been busy planning exciting events (more below), welcoming new staff members, and continuing our advocacy to advance gender equity at all levels of government.
Please enjoy the following glimpse at some of what we've been working on.
Warmly,
Kim Decker
CEO, YWCA Cambridge
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Early Bird Tickets to Women of Distinction Now on Sale! | | | |
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This year marks 30 years of celebrating the women and young trailblazers who build our community, who overcome barriers and who achieve amazing things!
This year's awards gala will be a beautiful celebration with a couple of surprises we know you'll love.
The Women of Distinction Awards gala will take place at Whistle Bear Golf Club on June 12, 2024.
Lock in a discounted, early bird rate now while supplies last.
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You're Invited: She Talks Returns | | |
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We're thrilled to bring back our signature She Talks speakers event!
On May 14, join us at The Underwing for an intimate evening of conversation, storytelling, laughter and inspiration from some of Canada's most brilliant trailblazers. Stay tuned for announcements of our star-studded lineup of speakers!
Tickets are only $45 and supply is limited, so don't wait to get yours!
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YWCA Canada Delegation to UN SCW 68 | | | |
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Last month, YWCA Cambridge Director of Communications and Advocacy, Roz Gunn, was among the YWCA Canada delegation to the 68th Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW 68) at the United Nations in New York City.
The priority theme around which the Commission as well as side and parallel events centred this year was “accelerating the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective.”
Read some of Roz's reflections from her experience on our blog!
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Waterloo Region Council Endorses The Plan to End Chronic Homelessness! | | |
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On April 9, Regional Council endorsed The Plan to End Chronic Homelessness, a co-created plan for transformative systems change in the Region’s homelessness and housing system. The nearly 90-page report includes 31 specific recommendations to bring about change, one of which looks to analyze the current system through a gender equity lens. Working with our regional government, over 40 organizations and a lived experience group informed The Plan and will continue to work towards change together through a whole of community approach.
YWCA Cambridge staffer, Jennifer Gordon had the opportunity to join regional staff, as well as local Cambridge advocate Marjorie Knight, in the presentation of this Plan to council.
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Bill 173 Passes Second Reading | | |
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On April 10, Bill 173: The Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act, passed second reading in the Ontario Legislature.
This is a significant step forward, one long called for by service providers and advocates, and affirmed by nearly 100 municipalities (including Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo!) who have declared IPV an epidemic.
Read about what we know and why it's a big deal on our blog.
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St. Elizabeth Child Care Celebrates Holi | |
In March, children in our St. Elizabeth child care centre welcomed the coming of Spring by celebrating and learning about Holi, the Hindu festival of colours, love and spring. Children read books about Holi before playing with colourful powder and singing songs! | |
Youth and Women's Program Updates | | |
Congratulations, Winter Small Steps to Success Grads! | |
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The Small Steps to Success Winter program has formally ended with seven participants successfully graduating from the program. This group was highly engaged and motivated throughout the program with three participants receiving employment opportunities before the program's end!
We are grateful for the opportunity to support folks on their employment journey and achieving their goals. We wish them continued success!
If you are interested in learning more about Small Steps to Success, keep an eye on our blog for participant success stories.
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The W is Gearing Up For Spring! | |
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If you are in the neighbourhood, be sure to check out our display window at 20 Dickson St. It is bright and filled with all things spring, including collaborative youth-led art pieces from our SHYFT program.
SHYFT is back this Spring with two in-centre programs running at The W and three in-school groups taking place from April to June. Thank you to all of the winter SHYFT participants who joined us in creating friendships and some very cool art projects!
Looking for free summer camp programs for girls and gender-diverse youth ages 8-15? Stay tuned to our website's program and events calendar or @thewcentre Instagram or Facebook page for more information on dates and activities!
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In March we welcomed a new member to our W community!
Alana Decker, who also goes by A. Decker, is a visual artist passionate about integrating art with mental health advocacy. As an artist, she aims to use her creative talents to raise awareness of important issues and encourage discussions around well-being. Through her work, she explores how art can both reflect one's inner experiences and bring more light to topics that require understanding. By blending art with messages of empowerment and compassion, Alana strives to help diminish stigma and bring greater comfort to those navigating challenges. Her efforts demonstrate how the arts can enrich society in meaningful ways by spreading messages of empowerment.
Alana will be facilitating SHYFT programs, workshops, events and can often be found in the community! Alana is a community builder at heart and we look forward to (un)learning and creating alongside her! Welcome Alana!
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