Page 41 - 2020-Women and Teens of the Year Program Booklet

YWCA Bethlehem

Mission | Our work is guided by a bold mission we share with YWCA and 200
local associations across the U.S.:
YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting
peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.
History | YWCA Bethlehem was founded in November 1927, as the result of a
community meeting. Our emerging association encouraged women to vote, engaged them
in social issues, and provided English classes for newly arriving immigrants. Throughout
the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, our headquarters at Market and New Streets was a community
hub that promoted learning, health and recreation for women and girls. At 93 years young,
YWCA Bethlehem operates a “Y without walls” as we lead empowerment programs and
promote social justice in the community with partners who share our vision for a more just
and equitable world for women and girls, including women and girls of color.
Programs and Services

TechGYRLS introduces girls to computer coding, animation and robotics and helps girls
explore their STEM interests to the fullest.
WeBuild is a hands-on program for young women and girls in 7th through 12th grades
that teaches them all aspects of the contracting and construcion industries through after
school programming, on-site experience, job showdowing and mentoring.
LPGA-USGA Girls Golf of the Lehigh Valley is committed to “Changing Lives One
Swing at a Time!” Girls Golf encourages girls ages 7-17 to learn the game of golf, build
friendships in a fun, supportive environment.
The Pop-Up Prom Shop saves teens and their families an estimated $50,000 in prom
related costs each year. The event is made possible by generous women and local
retailers who donate gowns, shoes, jewelry and purses.
Stand Against Racism is YWCA USA’s annual racial justice advocacy campaign held
each April.
Diversity Reading Circles provide educational enrichment using children’s storybooks
that examine diversity, equality, and social justice.
Week Without Violence is YWCA USA’s annual campaign to end gender-based
violence. YWCA Bethlehem hosts events locally for women and girls.
Adult Day Services Center is a licensed, therapeutic, social day care program for senior
women and men. The purpose of the program fosters healthy social engagement for
otherwise isolated seniors while providing critical respite for family caregivers.
Residential Services: YWCA Bethlehem provides case management and support
services for residents of the Fred Rooney Bldg. in partnership with Winn Residential.
Great Decisions Foreign Policy Lecture Series offers public talks on foreign policy
topics as a means of bringing the community together to discuss global issues.