The YWCA facility and programs provide an environment free of discrimination, criticism, harassment or any other emotional or physical harm. Instead, we encourage respect and support for all people participating in our programs and living within our facility. We provide safe, stable housing (emergency and long term) for survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking and sexual assault regardless of race, gender or sexual orientation . Click here if you are in need of Survivor Services.
- Survivor Support: Survivor Services, Legal Advocacy, Women’s Circle, Therapy Groups
- Youth Development: Girl’s Circle, The Council for Boys and Young Men, Unity Circle, Summer Food Program
Programs that provide safe spaces
Survivor Services
- Sexual Assault hospital response
- Court Advocacy
- Case management (youth and adult)
- Safety plans
- Mental Health and alcohol and other drugs program
- Economic empowerment /employment assistance
Legal Advocacy
A legal advocate works with and on behalf of those in our Survivor Services programs to advocate for their needs and inform them of their rights. Whether the survivor is a plaintiff or a defendant in a case, the legal advocate provides support and assistance and explains the legal process along the way.
For more information about Legal Advocacy, contact Jodi Brummette (jwallenhorts@ywcavanwertcounty.org or 419-238-6639 ext 112).
Women’s Circle
Developed by the One Circle Foundation, the Women’s Circle Support Group encourages participants to share, explore, build skills, and encourage one another to live authentically. This program is suitable for women from all walks of life who wish to live more mindfully including those attending college, involved in careers or recovery programs, women working in institutions or in military or volunteer service, faith- based settings, homemakers and caregivers. Women’s Circle is one of the programs utilized with Survivor Services residents.
For more information about Women’s Circle, contact Mission Impact Coordinator Kelly Houg (419-238-6639 ext 311 or khoug@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
Group Therapy
Residents and and those utilizing our outreach services have many opportunities and are encouraged to participate in beneficial group therapy sessions lead by various professionals and YWCA staff. The small group sessions are designed to provide residents insight into improving their life, as well as providing hands-on learning opportunities. A variety of topics are covered by trained housing staff, community organizations, and local mental health care professionals. Topics and discussions may include anger management, life skills, conflict resolution, self-esteem and parenting skills.
Girls Circle
One Circle Foundation also developed Girls’ Circle, a structured support group for girls ages 9-18 years which integrates relational theory, resiliency practices, and skills training. Girls Circle is the first program in the country to demonstrate effectiveness in reducing delinquency in at-risk for girls.
For more information about Girl’s Circle, contact Betsy Hamman (bhamman@ywcavanwertcounty.org or 419-238-6639 ext 106).
The Council for Boys and Young Men®
This program promotes safe and healthy development of boys and young men (pre-teen through adolescent years) in a group environment. The program focuses on the strengths of each individual while working toward a future where participants develop healthy and diverse masculine identities allowing them to grow as leaders. For boys/young men in marginalized families or communities, there is a higher risk of school drop-out, physical and sexual risk-taking, substance abuse, sexual violence, and crime. By participating in The Council, boys and young men reduce these risk factors and find belonging, build assets, and deconstruct harmful masculinity beliefs.
This program will be offered by the YWCA beginning the Summer of 2022
For more information about Girl’s Circle, contact Betsy Hamman (bhamman@ywcavanwertcounty.org or 419-238-6639 ext 106).
Unity Circle
Unity Circle is a structured support group that explores the ways in which race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, culture, and gender intersect.. Unity Circle addresses critical needs and strengths while honoring and celebrating the unique life experiences of its participants.
For more information about Unity Circle, contact Kelly Houg (khoug@ywcavanwertcounty.org or 419-238-6639 ext 311).
Summer Food Program
Since its inception in 1996, the YWCA Summer Food Program has served over 120,000 meals to youth in our community. Families are also provided a weekly bag of produce and a large portion of participants also receive a weekend meal bag. Aside from the nutritional aspect, programming opportunities are available that offer participants memorable summer experiences including field trips, guest speakers, and other enjoyable activities throughout the summer.
To learn more about the Summer Food Program, contact Betsy Hamman (bhamman@ywcavanwertcounty.org or 4192386639 ext 106)