OUR HISTORY

In 1887, A group of community leaders came together to address the need for safe, affordable housing for young women moving to the city to work in industry. The movement of what was to become the YWCA, was launched. Since that time, the YWCA has provided programming to meet the ever changing needs of women and families in Chemung County and the surrounding areas.

Throughout our history, the YWCA has stood for service excellence and was the first organization to support women, children and families, through the promotion of peace, the elimination of racism, advocacy, education and self empowerment.

The YWCA provides an array of services to individuals and families including, but not limited to, minorities, the working poor, all ages and those needing critical health services through key areas that include Child Care, Youth Leadership, Breast Health, Water, Fitness and Recreation and Social Justice.