Empowering Through Economic Advancement
We accomplish our mission via our Women’s Resource Center and Getting Ahead program.
Women's Resource Center
YWCA Great Lakes Bay Region offers a variety of programs at our new Women’s Resource Center that focus on employability and education.
This service is provided by appointment and at no cost. YWCA staff can assist with:- Resume Development and Cover Letters
- Computer Literacy Skills
- Interviewing Skills
- Job Searching
"The Getting Ahead program has given us encouragement, support, and knowledge. Thank you all so very much!"
- 2016 Graduate
Getting Ahead is an economic empowerment program offering long-term solutions for economic stability. The curriculum is based on the evidence-based work of Dr. Ruby Payne, who authored “Bridges Out of Poverty” and “Getting Ahead.”
The topics covered in class include language, social capital, financial education, relationships, hidden rules of society, and other important concepts for abstract thinking. Participants end the program with a comprehensive economic action plan for success.
YWCA staff offer follow-up support services after completion of the 13-week course. Participants who graduate are eligible to apply for funding to meet employment and education goals. Some examples of financial support include vocational training, certifications, licensing, and uniforms.
Women attending the program have gone on to receive vocational training, attend universities, and find employment that improves their lives economically and personally.
One participant stated, “With this program’s help, I am working on re-opening my massage practice, and I have also gone back to college to finish my degree in interior design… This program has exceeded my expectations in every way. It has given me positive people and information I can build off.”
Dress for Success
The YWCA Working Wardrobe provides work-appropriate clothing for low-income women who are seeking employment, starting a new job, or going to school. Women visit the closet when they are newly hired for a job or are seeking appropriate attire for interviews. The goal of the program is to prepare women for employment and boost their self-esteem by helping them “dress for success”.We are currently accepting office-appropriate clothing, accessories (hand bags, scarves, umbrellas) and shoes in all sizes. Please make sure that all donated clothing is in good condition. Items donated that would not be used in the Working Wardrobe will be further donated to another organization. Donations can be dropped off at our Bay City location.