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In this issue you will find stories on our youth education programs, about what’s stirring at the YWCA Hotel Kitchens, top reasons to try a triathlon and the YWCA Women of Distinction Awards.
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contact Spring/Summer 2013
YWCA Program Centre535 Hornby Street Vancouver, BC V6C 2E8
Touching LivesBuilding Futures
03184072
Touching LivesBuilding Futures
in tHis issue
FAreWeLL to A FrienD
Marnie Marley retires
meAningFuL mentorSHip
Volunteers reveal the rewards of mentoring
emeLiDA’S Letter
A message of hope
motHerS WitHout LegAL StAtuS
Panel discussion with YWCA leaders
YoutH eDuCAtion progrAmS
Richmond expansion and Youth Conference
neW empLoYment progrAm
Helping baby boomers
trY A triAtHLon
Top reasons to get started
KitCHen WiSDom
What’s stirring at the YWCA Hotel
Women oF DiStinCtion
AWArDS
30th anniversary celebration
rememBering JoAnne BArKer
A dedicated community builder
AnDreA tHomAS HiLL
Honoured for her community commitment
Please share this issue of ContaCt with a friend
ywcavan.org
ywca vision
achieving women’s equality
ywca Mission
to touch lives and build better futures for women and their families through advocacy and integrated services that foster economic independence, wellness and equal opportunities.
Jacob tammingaBoys 4 real HigH scHool Mentor
For Jacob, being a high school mentor with the YWCA Boys 4 Real program presented at his school, Earl Marriott Secondary in Surrey, is a great opportunity to learn, gain experience and give back.
That’s why this personable Grade 12 student is volunteering for his second time with Boys 4 Real,
which helps Grade 7 boys get ready for high school.
As a gay youth, Jacob knows the pressures to fit in. He wants to show kids they can be themselves. “You don’t have to fit a bill, you can be who you are and be just as great a person.”
The greatest skill he’s learned from being a mentor? Leadership. “I thought I knew what it meant to be a leader, but volunteering has given me a more practical sense of what it means to lead a group.”
“Anyone who is considering volunteering for Boys 4 Real should definitely do it because it’s a fantastic experience and it’s loads of fun.”
In 2012, 14 high school students volunteered with YWCA Youth Education Programs. Learn more at ywcavan.org/volunteer4youth, where you can also read Jacob’s complete story.
Funding for Boys 4 Real in Surrey was generously provided by Scotiabank, the Edith Lando Charitable Foundation and City of Surrey Community Grants. For more information, contact alex Gist at 604 895 5844 or [email protected].
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Message from the CEoYWCA metro Vancouver has long advanced the cause of universal early learning and care for all Canadian children. our work has been profoundly influenced by Dr. Clyde Hertzman, Canada’s greatest champion
of early child development, whose untimely passing earlier this year is mourned by his colleagues across our country and throughout the world.
As Director of the Human early Learning partnership (HeLp) at the university of British Columbia, Clyde championed an interdisciplinary approach to population health and built an extraordinary body of evidence that has positively influenced public policy on the early years. Yet, it is my belief that we are only just beginning to see the enormous impact of his life’s work.
i will greatly miss the passion, energy and warmth of a lovely man, whom i was privileged to call a dear friend. All of us at the YWCA extend our deepest sympathy to
Clyde’s partner, marcy Cohen, his family and his colleagues at HeLp and throughout the world. We know that the best way to honour Clyde’s memory is to continue his work and we are committed to doing just that.
it is no surprise that social media has played a significant role in changing the way young people communicate today. empowered youth have effectively used social media to garner support around issues that interest them. An increasing number of schools are using technology-based platforms as educational aids. However, given the anonymity of online communication and increased accessibility through smartphone technology, young people today are vulnerable to online luring and sexual exploitation. this is of great concern to the YWCA and we will be examining the role internet safety can play in providing healthy choices for youth through advocacy and our Youth education programs.
Building on our work supporting children and youth, we were pleased to host our first Youth Conference this past fall focusing on media literacy and online identity formation. You can read more about the conference in this issue.
i would like to acknowledge marnie marley, a visionary leader at the YWCA, who, after 23 years of service, retired in march. As a long-standing member of the senior management team, marnie dedicated her time to enriching, growing and nurturing the employment, Crabtree Corner community, single mothers’, mentorship and international services programs. She has been a powerful force in shaping the organization and possesses a deep knowledge of the issues we all work to overcome, grounded in a clear understanding of the challenges faced at the front line, and balanced with compassion and respect for the clients we serve.
Finally, i want to extend sincere gratitude to all our partners, donors, volunteers, staff and supporters for your commitment to YWCA metro Vancouver. Without you, we cannot provide such exemplary service to women and their families.
All the best,
Janet austinceO, ywca metro Vancouver
contact Spring/Summer 2013
Meaningful Mentorship two ywca mentors reveal the many rewards of volunteering
Joan vincentconnect to success Mentor
A successful entrepreneur and community and business leader, Joan brings a wealth of experience to the YWCA Connect to Success mentorship program. Since 2007, Joan has been matched with an impressive eight mentees.
Connect to Success mentors are professional women from fields such as business, health care, science and the arts. They help jump-start the careers of their mentees, who include women who are new to Vancouver, returning to the workforce or recent graduates.
Why does Joan return to Connect to Success year after year? “The scope of the program is broad and deep and sustains my need to be associated with the work of investing in people. That concept keeps me volunteering!”
“Joan gave me hope, information and direction with caring support,” says Dianne Archer, Joan’s mentee from 2012. “She helped me grow and succeed in ways I never imagined.”
Read Joan and Dianne’s full success story at ywcavan.org/connect2success. For more information on becoming a mentor contact Laurie Sinnott at 604 895 5857 or [email protected].
Funding for Connect to Success is provided in large part by the Canadian-British Columbia Labour Market Agreement through the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training, with support from Vancity.
celeBrating volunteersnational volunteer week, april 21 to 27
a heartfelt thank you to the dedicated volunteers who give their time and talents to help the YWCa provide important programs and services for women, children, men and youth.
in 2012, more than 700 individuals and 22 groups carried out 24,000 volunteer hours for the ywca
to learn more about volunteering at YWCA metro Vancouver, go to ywcavan.org/volunteer or contact mariko ikeda at 604 895 5814 or [email protected].
YWCA Leaders Learn about Mothers without Legal Statusin 2008, YWCA metro Vancouver commissioned the mothers without Legal Status in Canada project. the overall objective was to study the challenges faced by immigrant women with no legal status in Canada whose children cannot be removed from this jurisdiction due to custody and access issues.
As a result, a best practices booklet for front-line workers and a report with recommendations for changes to the law were produced and distributed to government officials and service providers.
Women without legal status cannot legally work or receive income assistance, medical care or subsidized housing. in some districts, their children cannot attend school. this leaves them vulnerable to abuse as they struggle to house and feed their children and themselves.
After working closely with the provincial government, the YWCA saw one of the policy gaps close in fall 2012: access to income assistance for some mothers without legal status. While this is a significant step forward, we continue to advocate for change to help these women stabilize their lives.
YWCA metro Vancouver has connected with YWCAs across Canada to determine if they, too, are seeing women in this situation. on February 9, YWCA Ceos and executive Directors from across the country held their annual meeting here in Vancouver, and we hosted a panel on this topic. the panel included experts on mothers without legal status, immigration law and front-line violence prevention.
the discussion gave an opportunity for us to highlight the partnerships and the successes we have made and for the group to better understand the issue, locally and nationally. it was a great success, as we heard from other YWCAs about the unique challenges their clients face and all leaders committed to exploring the issue further.
For more information please contact lisa Rupert at 604 734 5722 or [email protected].
YWCA Metro Vancouver gratefully acknowledges The Law Foundation of British Columbia for funding the Mothers without Legal Status in Canada project.
You can help the YWCA to support these mothers by contributing to the Mothers without Legal Status Food Basket Fund. This will ensure that each mother receives a grocery voucher every month to buy food for her children. To make a donation, please contact Pip Smith tel 604 895 5766 or email [email protected].
“Never in my wildest dreams did I see myself staying for so long,” says Marnie, who was hired in November 1989 as YWCA’s Director of Community and Social Services. “But this organization has offered so many amazing opportunities to grow and to develop… I never had time to get bored or wonder whether the opportunities were of value because what we were creating was so amazing.”
Marnie’s first involvement with the YWCA was as teenage President of the West Vancouver Secondary School’s Hi-Y club. She later attended the University of British Columbia, where she earned a degree in psychology. After establishing a career in the addictions field in Toronto and later Bermuda, Marnie moved back to Vancouver after 25 years abroad, ready for a new career focus.
when yOu OPen One dOOR tO the ywca
It was the YWCA’s unique approach that initially appealed to Marnie.
“The YW really is able to deliver a holistic approach to supporting people because we know that one piece or another is helpful but is rarely enough,” explains Marnie.
“When [our clients] open one door to the YWCA they open many doors to the YWCA. It’s a very special place in that way.”
Among her most memorable days with the YWCA is the opening, in 1995, of Semlin
Gardens, a safe, affordable housing community for single moms and their children in Vancouver.
“There wasn’t a single [resident] who had ever had a decent place to live so it was very overwhelming for them,” says Marnie. “They were almost afraid to come in because they thought this could all go away.”
“I’ve worked really hard to make sure that we created the best possible spaces to provide the services to our clients,” she says. “When you give people a place that is clean, warm and welcoming you show that you respect and value them.”
maRnie’s legacy
Particularly close to Marnie’s heart is the work she established around fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD).
“Because of my years in the addictions field I realized as soon as I started with the YW that there were a number of children in our care who had FASD and so that’s been a major focus for me,” she says.
For Marnie, breaking the intergenerational cycle of FASD is especially important.
“The mothers often had no idea that they themselves also were affected by FASD and so they began to understand themselves and then they could understand their children,” says Marnie.
“I think we have a great deal to be proud of because we’ve really taken very strong leadership in that area.”
giVing Back
As Marnie prepares for the next chapter of her life, she reflects on her career with the YWCA as a way to give back for a wonderful life.
“Many women live lives that are very marginal… and I feel blessed in my own life, which has been so positive,” she says. “I’ve always been bitten by a bug that meant that I needed to find a way to make the world a bit better for people to be in.”
In honour of Marnie’s many contributions and her groundbreaking work in the YWCA’s FASD initiatives, we invite you to support the Marnie Marley FASD Co-Facilitator Fund.
This fund gives YWCA Crabtree Corner program participants mentoring experience with the FASD Coordinator. The Co-Facilitators gain conflict resolution and communication skills, build contacts in the community, and often stay in the Downtown Eastside and become outreach workers.
Please support Marnie’s vision by making a contribution. Each donation up to $49,000 will be matched 1 to 1 by an anonymous donor. You can visit ywcavan.org/donations, call Pip Smith at 604 895 5766 or email [email protected].
farewell to a frienD
Marnie Marley Reflects on 23 Years with the YWCA
contact Spring 2013
After more than two decades of inspiring work that has touched the lives of thousands of people across metro Vancouver and beyond, marnie marley retires as Director of employment, Crabtree Corner Community and international Services.
ywcavan.org 3
marnie marley in 1990 and 2013
4 ywcavan.org
The YWCA Youth Education Programs team, in partnership with our Hypersexualization Taskforce, hosted their first annual YWCA Metro Vancouver Youth Conference in November 2012. More than 100 high school students, along with teachers, principals, youth workers, parents and volunteers, spent their Saturday tackling some tough issues faced by today’s youth.
me & the media: Advancing Youth media Literacy focused on hypersexualization and advertising, hypermasculinity and aggression and social media identity development and protection.
the conference opened with a keynote presentation by Jeff perera, Community and Youth engagement manager with the White ribbon Campaign and author of the blog Higher unlearning.
For Jeff, media literacy is at the foundation of healthy emotional and psychological development in young people.
“Young women and men need to understand that they are enough; everything they need is within
themselves,” he explains. “once they embrace this, they can better navigate the advertising and messaging aiming for the foundation of one’s self-worth and esteem.”
YWCA Youth education manager Alex gist agrees. “Hypersexualization and hypermasculinity are nothing new,” says Alex. “But with the proliferation of ipads and smartphones, the amount of this type of media that young people are exposed to has increased dramatically.”
Alex sees media literacy as a way for youth to be proactive in deconstructing the “bombardment of hypersexualized and hypermasculinized images.”
After the keynote, attendees participated in interactive group workshops that gave them the chance to discuss real-life situations and find solutions to problematic messaging.
given the great deal of interest from adults, the conference also included an afternoon workshop that covered strategies for media literacy and public engagement.
this year’s conference will focus on internet safety, among other key issues affecting young people. opportunities to engage with adults on the issue of media literacy are also being explored.
to find out how you can financially support the YWCA Youth Conference, please contact chantelle krish at 604 895 5767 or [email protected].
Youth Conference Empowers Young People to Become Media Literate
In spring 2012, YWCA’s Youth Education Programs team brought their expertise in facilitating youth conversation to yet another city in Metro Vancouver: Richmond. The team led eight after-school, youth-facilitated dialogues at William Cook Elementary School that focused on promoting understanding between diverse groups within the city.
the inter-generational Dialogues in richmond engaged 23 grade 7 girls and boys on the topics of racism, hate crimes and multiculturalism.
Through discussions, videos, games and role playing, the students examined ways to build a more inclusive and integrated community, expand personal horizons and promote acceptance of diversity.
Each dialogue topic corresponded to a module from the YWCA’s long-running Welcome to My Life™ and Boys 4 Real™ after-school programs, which equip girls and boys with the skills they need to build healthy relationships and transition to high school.
The Richmond dialogues were led by a multi-ethnic, intergenerational team of university
students, high school students and adults. The dialogues culminated in a showcase of the Grade 7s role playing Active Witnessing, a training program that helps students speak out against discrimination.
Program participants reported that the experience was fun and that it helped them learn something new about diversity and multiculturalism. “Acceptance of everyone is important,” one student indicated, while another stated, “When people believe in something negative [a stereotype] it can lead to discrimination.”
The YWCA expanded its after-school programs into Surrey in 2012 and returns to Cook Elementary in Richmond to deliver Welcome to My Life and Boys 4 Real this spring. For funding opportunities or more information, please contact Alex Gist at 604 895 5844 or [email protected] or visit ywcavan.org/youth.
The YWCA’s Inter-Generational Dialogues in Richmond was made possible through funding from the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia, with a grant from EmbraceBC.
YWCA Reaches Youth in Richmond
using video, audio and images, Jeff Perera presented on the power of language in hypersexualization, hypermasculinity and cyberbullying.
contact Spring/Summer 2013
Baby Boomers are Zooming Back to Work
it is estimated there will be more than one million job openings in Bc by 2020, and experienced older workers are eager to fill them.
I’m honoured to receive this awesome opportunity of living in a breathtaking, brand new development, YWCA Como Lake Gardens. I love living here. It is everything I ever dreamed of and more. However, I understand that this is not my right but a privilege.
I sincerely thank you very much for your unforgettable generosity.
I have been in great need for a safe and stable home for ten years. Since I was born and raised in a refugee camp, I could hardly wait to start living in Canada in 2002.
But I had no idea that I was going to be in and out of transition homes due to constant mental and emotional abuse.
I love the diversity of the residents at Como Lake Gardens. I feel very fortunate to be a part of this unique community. The staff is very professional, dedicated and caring.
Since I started living here in April 2012, my fears and my insecurities have subsided. I’m no longer afraid to come home. I’m very excited about raising my son in this positive and peaceful environment. I would love to volunteer in a homelessness outreach program if I get the chance.
You have given me the courage to dream again. Thank you very much for giving me HOPE. At last, I’m HOME, SAFE and FREE.
Emelida’s Letter
contact Spring 2013
a Message of Hope
ywcavan.org 5
Job Options Bc helped carolyn turn her passion for animals into a new career.
the YWCA is pleased to offer the new Job options BC older Workers employment program at its program Centre in Vancouver and at the WorkBC employment Services Centre in north Vancouver. this 12-week program provides job search assistance to individuals ages 55 and older who are not eligible for employment insurance.
individuals participate in the older Workers program to gain the skills and confidence to re-enter the workforce and be active in their communities. one individual is Carolyn, a former self-employed house cleaner and pet sitter. through the career exploration process, she decided to turn her passion for animals into a career centred on pet care. She was thrilled with her result!
“i am so grateful for the support of the group and facilitators at Job options,” says Carolyn. “they helped me shift my life into a more positive, self-affirming direction that validated my self-worth.”
With help from the job developer, Carolyn secured a work placement with a dog daycare business in the West end of Vancouver that resulted in long-term employment as a customer service rep and dog walker. She feels energized and is 100% committed to her new job.
if you are an employer willing to provide work experience or have job opportunities please call to discuss training grants available to you. this is a simple and cost-effective way to hire experienced employees. to find out more visit ywcajobseeker.org or call 604 895 5854 in Vancouver and 604 988 3766 ext. 238 in north Vancouver.
The Older Workers program is a BC
Government initiative funded by the
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills
Training through the Canada-British
Columbia Labour Market Agreement.
Andrea thomas Hill, Founder and Chair of Cause We Care Foundation, was awarded a 2013 BC Community Achievement Award on march 14th in Victoria. the BC Community Achievement Awards honour individuals who have contributed significantly to their communities.
YWCA metro Vancouver was delighted to nominate Andrea. in her efforts to support low-income families, Andrea established Cause We Care Foundation. Cause We Care Foundation’s generous lead gift of $1.5 million to the capital campaign for YWCA Cause We Care House will help to build safe, affordable housing for women and children at risk of homelessness in the Downtown eastside/Strathcona neighbourhood.
Slated for completion in early 2015, the YWCA capital campaign for Cause We Care House is well underway and we are actively fundraising the remaining $2.7 million. For more information on YWCA Cause We Care House, please call kathy lilyholm at 604 895 5851 or email [email protected].
our heartfelt congratulations to Andrea on a well-deserved acknowledgement of her meaningful efforts to improve the lives of vulnerable women and children.
andrea thomas Hill Recognized for Her Community Commitment
emelida feels safe at home living at como lake gardens.
It means a lot to Emelida to live at YWCA Como Lake Gardens, which opened in Coquitlam in 2012 thanks to our key partners Province of British Columbia, City of Coquitlam and YWCA donors.
At the YWCA, we are inspired when we hear stories like Emelida’s and are fortunate we can help many more women, children, men and youth who turn to us in times of crisis.
In British Columbia, 20% of families are led by single mothers, almost half of them living in poverty and finding it impossible to meet their basic needs. Critical to breaking the cycle of poverty is access to safe, affordable housing, which is why this is a core service area for YWCA Metro Vancouver.
We operate eight housing communities across Metro Vancouver for low-income single mothers and their children. Some provide short-term transitional housing while others offer long-term support. The commonality is all our residents can access YWCA programs, such as legal education, employment services and advocacy, which help them move towards economic independence.
Sadly, mothers in Emelida’s previous situation are all too common and need our support. For this reason, we are expanding the YWCA affordable housing stock into the Downtown Eastside/Strathcona area with the development of YWCA Cause We Care House in partnership with Vancouver Public Library and City of Vancouver.
Named after the project’s lead donor Cause We Care Foundation, this community will provide 21 units of supportive housing for low-income single mothers and their children, situated above the new Strathcona Branch of Vancouver Public Library. Family programming will be available to residents and low-income single mothers in the community and, in the spirit of our partnership with Vancouver Public Library, will have a strong literacy focus.
For more information on how you can support YWCA Cause We Care House, please contact Kathy Lilyholm at 604 895 5851 or [email protected].
Kitchen Wisdom stirring up home cooking and new friendships in ywca hotel’s communal kitchens
Every evening, the YWCA Hotel’s kitchens come alive with the sound of many languages and the aroma of different dishes from around the world.
“My wife and I use the seventh-floor kitchen regularly,” says Umar, a hotel guest from Pakistan. For the couple, the kitchen is not just about cooking food, it’s also a relaxing gathering place.
“The best thing about the kitchen is we get to make a lot of new friends – talking to people from different countries and sharing our stories and experiences.”
YWCA Hotel guests have access to three large and two small kitchens. Every guest room also comes equipped with a small fridge.
“We always look for a hotel with a kitchen,” say Portia and Matthew, a pair from England. “We love to cook our own food so having access to a kitchen is important.”
Last year almost 18,000 guests stayed at the YWCA Hotel. Many were repeat guests who enjoy the hotel’s affordable rates, central location and friendly staff. They also appreciate that the hotel is a social enterprise and its proceeds support YWCA community programs.
Next time your friends and relatives come to Vancouver, let them know about our hotel located at 733 Beatty, off Robson Street. It’s
“worth checking into.” Call 604 895 5830 or visit ywcahotel.com.
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top reasons to
try a triathlonOne reason why triathlons are so popular in our part of the world is we’re lucky to be able to ride, run and swim all year round. if you have not considered a triathlon, here are more reasons to get started.
• training for a triathlon is a great way to get out of your comfort zone if you are looking for a challenge.
• A triathlon gets you to cross train in three disciplinary activities. Cross training can reduce the risk of injuries such as shin splints, stress fractures, knee problems and tendinitis.
• By alternating biking and running, you develop all muscle groups in your legs, making you stronger overall.
• Swimming makes you more limber, develops your upper-body muscles and increases your lung capacity while giving your legs a break.
• Your cardiovascular capacity also improves during triathlon training
because you work out harder two or three days in a row and exercise different muscles.
• it’s not all physical. You become stronger mentally, too, from the difficulty associated with running right after a long bike ride.
getting convinced? here are training tips for your first triathlon:
• take swimming lessons if you need to improve your stroke efficacy.
• go to a good running store and have your running gait assessed and get the most appropriate shoes for you; this can greatly reduce the risk of injury.
• get your bike checked at the local bike shop to make sure it’s working properly and that you ride in the correct position to help prevent injury.
• Consider upgrading to bike shoes and clip-less pedals to make your riding more efficient.
At the YWCA Health + Fitness Centre, you’ll find all you need to ease into your first triathlon. try a swim in our ozonated pool, a ride on the Keiser bike and a run on the treadmill.
not sure where to start? We have experienced and knowledgeable personal trainers who can help you every step of the way.
For more information, contact member Services at 604 895 5777 or [email protected] or visit ywcahealthandfitness.com.
contact Spring/Summer 2013
Since 1984, the YWCA metro Vancouver Women of Distinction Awards has recognized women whose achievements have impacted their communities in significant ways. these women have shared their experiences and knowledge by mentoring, teaching and leading by example. the Awards also honour businesses and organizations that support the wellness and diverse needs of their employees.
this signature event – an important fundraiser for YWCA services for low-income single mothers and their children – will host 1,000 people at the Westin Bayshore Hotel on tuesday, may 28.
please join us to hear the stories behind these worthy nominees and celebrate with the award recipients. early bird tickets are available until may 7th at ywcawomenofdistinction.org or by calling 604 895 5825.
For more information about the Women of Distinction Awards please contact 604 895 5768 or [email protected].
presenting sponsor
Scotiabank
celeBrating 30 years
of inspiration,
continueD DeDication anD
tHe iMportance of fostering
future leaDers
golD sponsors silver sponsors Bronze sponsors MeDia sponsors
social MeDia sponsor
BC Housing
BC Hydro
goldcorp
industrial Alliance insurance and Financial Services inc.
port metro Vancouver
teck
tD
As You Like it media inc.
British Columbia nurses union
Hemlock printers Ltd.
mcCarthy tétrault
Vancity
Alexander Holburn Beaudin & Lang LLp
mercury Launch & tug
phillips, Hager and north investment management
pwC
teekay Shipping (Canada) Ltd.
Vancouver Sun
global BC
CKnW Am 980
miss604
matthew Blandy and Portia Phelps cook up a storm in one of the ywca hotel’s five kitchens.
the ywca was sad to lose one of its most committed supporters, Joanne Barker (née Finning), late last year. surrounded by her family, Joanne peacefully passed away at home on december 28, 2012.
As an employee, volunteer and donor, Joanne was instrumental in so many ways in helping us carry out our mission. With her help, we have continued to adapt to changing social complexities by developing and maintaining programs and services for the health of the community since 1897.
In the late 1940s and early 50s, Vancouverites were concerned about the level of violence between people from the East End and West End. This time has become known as the “Zoot Suit and Hoodlum Period.” In response, the YWCA carved out space in its building located at Burrard and Dunsmuir streets for a Teen
Drop-In Centre that was open from 3:00pm each day.
The Drop-In Centre brought teens from all areas of Vancouver together for dancing, crafts, sports and other activities, helping to reduce the conflict. During the Fraser River flood of 1948, the teens worked together filling sandbags. For some of them, it was the first time they felt they were really needed, and this shows how the Teen Drop-In Centre brought them together with positive results.
Following her graduation from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, Joanne applied for the position as Manager of the Drop-In Centre. With her many credentials and love of young people, Joanne stood out among all of the candidates, was hired and quickly became an integral part of the program. Joanne worked with the YWCA for two years until her marriage to Bill in 1952.
Joanne loved her job with the YWCA and had a special fondness for the program participants and her co-workers. She was especially keen on participating in our physical education programs. Joanne stayed involved with the YWCA’s work and, through thoughtful family donations, helped build safe, affordable housing for single mothers and their children in Vancouver and Surrey.
For more information on YWCA involvement, please contact Celia Campos at 604 895 5810 or [email protected].
Remembering Joanne BarkerA Dedicated Community Builder
give Hope. inspire a Dream.Since we opened our doors in 1897, YWCA metro Vancouver has touched the lives of thousands of women and families. We couldn’t have done it – we can’t do it – without you. thank you for your support.
name
Address
phone
name(s) to appear in recognition listings
please send me information about:
❑ including YWCA metro Vancouver in my will
❑ establishing an endowment at the YWCA
❑ A gift of life insurance to the YWCA
❑ A gift of publicly traded securities to the YWCA
535 Hornby Street Vancouver, BC V6C 2E8
tel 604 895 5850 fax 604 684 9171ywcavan.org
Charitable Business no. 108227943 rr0001. tax receipts are mailed.
contact Spring 2013
ywcavan.org 7
Join the legacy circlewhen you join the ywca legacy circle, you make a lasting difference in the lives of others – in your lifetime and beyond. if you are interested in joining, please fill out the form below.
i am pleased to accept membership in the YWCA metro Vancouver Legacy Circle on the following basis:
i have included YWCA metro Vancouver in my will
i have named YWCA metro Vancouver as beneficiary of a life insurance policy
i have arranged an annuity, trust or other residual interest gift for YWCA metro Vancouver
i am willing for my name to be listed as a member of the Legacy Circle. my name should appear in the Legacy Circle records as follows:
naMe(s)
aDDress
pHone
signature
Date
please complete and return this form to:
Joanne Fahr or celia camposmanager, Fund Development
YWCA metro Vancouver535 Hornby StreetVancouver, BC V6C 2e8
[email protected] 604 895 5289 [email protected] 604 895 5810
❑ Here is my gift of:
❍ $100 ❍ $50 ❍ $25 ❍ other
❑ Cheque enclosed (please make payable to YWCA metro Vancouver)
or
❑ please charge my credit card
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name on Card Signature
❑ i would like to make a gift of publicly traded securities. please contact me.
❑ i would like to make an ongoing monthly gift. Monthly amount $
❑ monthly debit from my bank account (please attach void cheque)
Bank name Account # Branch iD
or
❑ monthly charge to my credit card
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name on Card Signature
contact Spring/Summer 2013
2012/2013 YWCA Board of Directors Contact Newsletter
Visit ywcavan.org/subscribe to:
• Subscribe or unsubscribe to Contact• request an electronic version• Change your address
OR provide mailing label and mail to:
YWCA ContACt 535 Hornby Street, Vancouver, BC V6C 2e8
For more information about YWCA metro Vancouver or this newsletter:
tel 604 895 5850
ywcavan.org
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YWCA Metro Vancouver is a registered charity providing a range of integrated services for women and their families, and those seeking to improve the quality of their lives. From early learning and care to housing, health and fitness, employment services and leadership, YWCA Metro Vancouver touches lives in our communities. ywcavan.org
Healthy Choices for Youth
chaiR Karen GilmoreVice chaiR Sherry Tryssenaar tReasuReR Nancy A. Self secRetaRy Anne Boyle
Gina Arsens Wanda CosturosKaren Hoffmann
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How You Can Support the YWCADonations
there are many ways to financially support the work of the YWCA. Donors may choose to give cash, securities or gifts-in-kind. A variety of convenient payment options are available. tel 604 895 5850 [email protected]
rooftop fooD garDen
Volunteers plant and harvest organic vegetables, fruit and herbs on the rooftop of the downtown YWCA program Centre, supplying fresh produce for meal programs in the Downtown eastside. tel 604 895 5792
Meeting rooMs
the YWCA offers eight meeting rooms in two convenient downtown locations, available seven days a week. rooms accommodate two to 100 people and are clean, bright and affordable. All revenues from meeting room rentals support YWCA community programs. program Centre at 535 Hornby Street. tel 604 895 5800. YWCA Hotel at 733 Beatty Street. tel 604 895 5840
volunteer
one-time, long-term and group corporate volunteer positions exist within each program. there are also volunteer opportunities for professionals to use their career skills. tel 604 895 5772
HigH scHool MentorsHip prograM partners high school youth with professional women. mentors provide support and guidance regarding education and future career choices. tel 604 895 5802
welcoMe to My life™ A fun and interactive program at selected schools in metro Vancouver to help grade 7 girls with their transition to high school. this after-school program is offered in partnership with the Vancouver School Board and the uBC Learning exchange. tel 604 895 5779
tHat’s Just MeAn after-school program offered at selected elementary schools in Surrey to help grade 7 girls with their transition to high school. that’s Just me is presented by YWCA metro Vancouver in partnership with the Surrey School District. tel 604 895 5845
Boys 4 real™ A parallel program to Welcome to my Life™ and that’s Just me, designed to meet the needs of grade 7 boys. Both programs encourage healthy living, healthy decision making, and mutual respect in relationships. tel 604 895 5779
aBoriginal MentorsHip prograMAims to empower Aboriginal teen girls ages 13 to 18 through an arts- and culture-based group mentoring dynamic; provides life skills and connects them with positive adult Aboriginal role models. tel 604 895 5798
woMen of Distinction
Since 1984, this award program has honoured, encouraged and recognized outstanding women and workplaces in our community. tel 604 895 5768
Celebrating Women Who Inspire
A Safe Haven in the Downtown EastsidecraBtree corner faMily resource centre
provides a healthy and secure environment for women and their families in the Downtown eastside. Services include early learning and care, transitional housing, hot meal programs, single mothers’ support groups and parenting support. 533 east Hastings Street. tel 604 216 1650
Safe, Affordable HousingseMlin garDens
Located in Vancouver, Semlin gardens is a housing community that caters to single mothers participating in YWCA programs. tel 604 879 5796
fraser garDens
Located in Langley, Fraser gardens is a housing community for single mothers with a communal garden, play area and common room. tel 604 514 1255
craBtree Housing
transitional housing in the Downtown eastside for pregnant women and new mothers who are suffering from substance use issues. tel 604 216 1662
Munroe House
A second-stage transition house for women who have recently experienced abuse in their intimate relationship, and for their children. Support and art/play therapy are available for children ages three to 18 who have witnessed or experienced abuse. tel 604 734 5722
alDer garDens
Located in Surrey, Alder gardens is a housing community that caters to low-income single mothers and their children and link community services in a supportive housing model. tel 604 597 7984
arBour House
Similar to munroe House, this second-stage transition house provides a peaceful refuge where women who have experienced abuse in an intimate relationship, and their children, can feel safe and protected. tel 604 597 4952
coMo lake garDens
Located in Coquitlam, this is a new housing community for single moms and their children. tel 604 936 5665
Hotel
in downtown Vancouver, the YWCA Hotel offers comfortable and affordable accommodation to all travellers. Also provides longer term housing to residents and temporary accommodations to women needing immediate shelter. 733 Beatty Street. tel 604 895 5830 ywcahotel.com
HealtH + fitness centre A co-ed fitness facility in downtown Vancouver featuring an ozone purified pool, the latest in cardio/weight equipment and innovative programming. 535 Hornby Street. tel 604 895 5777 ywcahealthandfitness.com
Find Balance through Health + Fitness
Connecting People to Employmentunder the new employment program of BC, the YWCA provides WorkBC employment support and services on the north Shore, Vancouver West and Vancouver South communities. Jobseekers will have access to:
• Job search resources• personal employment planning• Workshops and training• Specialized services
nortH sHore
WorkBC employment Services Centre (north Shore) #310 – 260 West esplanade Avenue, north Vancouver. tel 604 988 3766
WorkBC employment Services Centre (north Shore Youth) #318 – 260 West esplanade Avenue, north Vancouver. tel 604 988 3766
vancouver west
WorkBC employment Services Centre (West Side) #300 – 2150 West Broadway. tel 604 688 4666
WorkBC employment Services Centre (Career Zone Youth), 1260 granville Street. tel 604 605 4666
vancouver soutH
WorkBC employment Services Centre (Vancouver South) 5th Floor, 5750 oak Street. tel 604 263 5005
connect to success
Connects women entering or re-entering skilled or professional careers with mentors. Women meet one-to-one with mentors for six months to receive guidance and advice to help kick-start their careers. tel 604 895 5858
JoB options
eight- to 12-week employment programs for adult and senior jobseekers.
Vancouver, 535 Hornby Street tel 604 895 5854
north Vancouver, 310-260 West esplanade Avenue tel 604 988 3766 ext 244
squamish, Squamish Adventure Centre 38551 Loggers Lane. tel 604 815 4974
Support for Families in NeedcoMMunity action on elDer aBuse proJectthe project will focus on prevention, detection, and response strategies using appropriate community resources for elder abuse awareness. tel 604 895 5819
single MotHers’ services information and resources for single mothers across metro Vancouver include workshops, special events, one-to-one support from a family resource worker and weekly community groups offered in partnership with neighbourhood houses and family places. tel 604 895 5849 (Vancouver) and tel 604 619 5275 (Surrey)
legal eDucatorprovides one-to-one information and workshops for YWCA clients on a wide range of legal issues. tel 604 734 5517 ext 2235
presents of peace Donate to presents of peace during the holidays and have a lasting a impact on the lives of low income, women-led families who need support year-round. tel 604 895 5783
tHrift sHopDonated clothing, housewares, books and jewellery are sold to raise funds for community programs. Additionally, YWCA clients are eligible for vouchers that allow them to obtain clothing and household items for their families at no cost. 4399 main Street (main and 28th Avenue). tel 604 675 9996
A Healthy Start for Childrencitygate early learning anD care
For children ages three to five, Citygate specializes in working with children to develop social, motor and interpersonal skills and to prepare them for school. 1192 Quebec Street. tel 604 687 1150
craBtree corner early learning anD care
offers short-term care for children ages six weeks to six years in the Downtown eastside. 533 east Hastings Street. tel 604 216 1655
leslie DiaMonD early learning anD care
Located in downtown Vancouver, Leslie Diamond provides care for children ages six weeks to three years. 535 Hornby Street. tel 604 895 5816
eMMa’s early learning anD care
For children ages six weeks to three years, with a focus on supporting young mothers. Children have a safe, stimulating learning environment while mothers receive academic and personal support through tupper Young parent Services. 3839 Carolina Street. tel 604 879 1121
Nolan GendronAmy JuschkaSuzy KaitmanChantelle KrishNatasha Krotez8 ywcavan.org
