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This is Chris Redgrave for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.
As one of the oldest women's organizations in the state, you could say the YWCA is the story of women in Utah. Chief Executive Officer Anne Burkholder says this non-profit organization has been a voice for women, a force for change and a place for hope throughout their 109-year history. This is important work with approximately half of Utah's population being female, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
The YWCA operates programs designed to empower and assist women. This includes the Annual Leader Luncheon coming up on September 25, which will feature Laura Ling as the keynote speaker. The organization also took the lead in founding Real Women Run, a collaborative effort to empower women to participate fully in the political arena. This includes running for office, appointments to public boards and commissions, work on campaigns or even just learning about the political system.
Anne says the YWCA has always provided direct services, but it changes with each generation. Right now one of their services is early education programs, open to anyone. Last fall they opened their first private kindergarten, and it's gone so well both childcare and preschool are filled to capacity with a waiting list.
The YWCA also offers Utah's oldest and most comprehensive domestic violence services. This includes affordable housing for families getting back on their feet and specialized services for children. Any given night they're hosting around 220 moms and kids which unfortunately is not enough to cover the need. During the school year there's after-school programming for kids and teens. They recently started a spiritual care center for residents and staff members and a 24-hour crisis line.
The YWCA supports mission-based work, women's leadership development, issue education and advocacy. Anne says they're working to put the best women's research together, like The Well-Being of Women's in Utah, all with the intention of advancing women.
Zions Bank has been providing value to the communities in which we live and serve for over 140 years. Member FDIC.
For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave, speaking on business.
YWCA 322 E. 300 South Salt Lake City, UT 84111 801-537-8604 www.ywca.com
