Every year at this luncheon, we honor someone who has exemplified the YWCA mission in their lives, with a focus on reaching out to, lifting up, and celebrating the lives and hopes of women, of children, and of diverse peoples. Born in 1943 in St. Paul, Jean (better known as “Punkey”) Adams earned a communications … Continue reading Jean “Punkey” Adams named 2025 YWCA Leader of Distinction
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Fueling hope for a special mom
When YWCA Advocate Karen Angel met Grace in the shelter and asked about her needs, the answer broke her heart. “She told me she would like to have a little more food,” Karen said. “She had been skipping meals to make sure her kids had enough to eat.” Karen showed Grace where to find supplies … Continue reading Fueling hope for a special mom
2024 Fun Factory gave joy, thanks to you
The 2024 Fun Factory team logged 1,874 miles this summer visiting places kids gather in Walla Walla and nearby communities like Touchet, Prescott, and Dayton. With a van full of glitter, games, and googly eyes, they offered eight weeks of free kids’ activities — all made possible by YWCA donors. The team reflected on the … Continue reading 2024 Fun Factory gave joy, thanks to you
LiNC: Building confidence, strength
Finding the strength to move forward after domestic violence can be overwhelming. That’s why the YWCA’s LiNC program — Living in New Circumstances — exists. Through a series of supportive classes, women regain confidence and reclaim their power. Eighteen women walked into LiNC classes in 2024, each with unique challenges and strengths. One was Vanessa*. … Continue reading LiNC: Building confidence, strength
Mariposa program updated for ‘Gen Alpha’
In 2024, Mariposa leaders entered Walla Walla fifth grade classrooms with a fully updated curriculum for this group of students who started school in 2019 and were in kindergarten when the pandemic hit in 2020. Today’s fifth-graders are part of the first generation to spend their lives immersed in social media, with screens everywhere. Changes … Continue reading Mariposa program updated for ‘Gen Alpha’
Fun Factory FAQs
Q. What is Fun Factory? A. YWCA Fun Factory is a mobile ten-week summer recreation program that visits neighborhoods throughout the Walla Walla Valley. The Fun Factory brings FREE outdoor fun, crafts, games and other activities to places where kids gather. Q. What ages is it for? A. We see kids as young as 4 … Continue reading Fun Factory FAQs
Two-plus decades of YWCA service
A Georgia native who studied engineering and served his country in the Marines during Vietnam, Tom Stanley moved here in 1980 to keep the line running at Continental Can.During his time there, the can lines were the company’s best across the country. When the plant closed in 2002, Tom went to work in agri-chemicals, till … Continue reading Two-plus decades of YWCA service
A holiday miracle for Grace and her family
On a chilly morning in December, the team at Underriner Honda of Walla Walla gathered with anticipation for their annual holiday car giveaway. General Sales Manager Pat Custer took a moment to explain the process. “The United Way gathers nominations,” Pat shared. “Once applications are approved, our staff has the honor of making the final selection.” A partnership of … Continue reading A holiday miracle for Grace and her family
You make the holidays feel more like home
Every year, generous volunteers Adopt a YWCA Family to make sure everyone in the shelters has a beautiful season of peace and joy. Also included are families involved in support group and LiNC life skills classes. Clients with the courage to walk away from domestic violence often have little time to think about anything other … Continue reading You make the holidays feel more like home
Domestic Violence Action Month (DVAM)
October is a time to reflect on the seriousness of intimate partner abuse and break the silence about violence. Check out October events below and get ideas for taking action. Walla Walla County Commissioners proclaim October is DVAM: Monday, Oct. 7, 10 a.m., 314 W. Main St. < Saturday, Oct. 26, 11am-1pm: Join YWCA Columbia … Continue reading Domestic Violence Action Month (DVAM)