Vision Statement: By lifting voices and providing safe spaces, the YWCA of Van Wert County will empower all to maximize opportunities and advocate for systems change.
Programs that Lift Voices
Through awareness events, empowerment opportunities, Youth Development Programs and Survivor Services, we will lift voices of all those who need us in our community
HERstory Matters
Macy Johnson, a local high school student, felt that the only Black History she was learning was that of Slavery. Macy knew there was more to be told and she began her quest for further knowledge.
Through videos, Macy shares her research and stories of Black Americans and people of color, the impact they had in the founding of our nation, as well as the racism and other struggles they faced. The information Macy presents is typically left out of history books.
Macy’s vlogs are published on YWCA of Van Wert County social media platforms
Until Justice Just Is
EDIT!!!!! We take a Stand Against Racism by raising awareness about the impact of institutional and structural racism and by building community among those who work for racial justice.
Stand Against Racism provides the opportunity for our community to unite their voices to educate, advocate, and promote racial justice.
For more information about how to get involved with Stand Against Racism, contact Mission Impact Coordinator Kelly Houg (419-238-6639 ext 311 or khoug@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
Get Out the Vote
Ensuring voting access is an important part of YWCA’s commitment to eliminating racism and empowering women. Through Get out the Vote, we assist in getting citizens of our community registered to vote in upcoming elections so their voices are heard!
For more information about Get Out the Vote, contact Mission Impact Coordinator Kelly Houg (419-238-6639 ext 311 or khoug@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
Dignity for All
We celebrate and advocate for dignity for all. Domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking services are available to survivors and their families regardless of sexual orientation or gender. YWCA staff are Safe Zone trained to better understand and respond to the unique needs of marginalized populations. Our doors are open to all.
Black History Month
Black History Month is a time to celebrate the accomplishments of past, present and future leaders Black Leaders and especially those within our community.
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.
For more information about Women’s Circle, contact Mission Impact Coordinator Kelly Houg (419-238-6639 ext 311 or khoug@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
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 Director of Youth Development Betsy Hamman (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 Mission Impact Coordinator Kelly Houg (419-238-6639 ext 311 or khoug@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
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 The Council for Boys and Young Men, contact Director of Youth Development Betsy Hamman (419-238-6639 ext 106 or bhamman@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
Human Trafficking 101
Human Trafficking 101 gives participants the basic understanding of what trafficking looks like, the various forms of trafficking and how victims are lured in. HT 101 trainings are available free to businesses, schools and organizations and each July a training is open to the public.
For more information about scheduling an HT 101 training, contact Director of Survivor Services Jamie Evans (419-238-6639 ext 105 or jevans@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
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 Director of Youth Development Betsy Hamman (419-238-6639 ext 106 or bhamman@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
Cougar Leaders
In a partnership with Van Wert Middle School, the YWCA provides opportunities for 7th grade students to learn more about our mission and impact their school and community through various projects and grow their leadership potential. Students with leadership qualities are chosen by school staff to work with our Mission Impact Coordinator to take a deeper dive into all that the YWCA does in our community.
For more information about Cougar Leaders, contact Mission Impact Coordinator Kelly Houg (419-238-6639 ext 311 or khoug@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
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 our Legal Advocate Jodi Brummette (419-238-6639 ext 112 or jwallenhorst@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
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 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.
Robert Ingersoll
Programs that provide Safe Spaces
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 .
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 our Legal Advocate Jodi Brummette (419-238-6639 ext 112 or jwallenhorst@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
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 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 Director of Youth Development Betsy Hamman (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 Mission Impact Coordinator Kelly Houg (419-238-6639 ext 311 or khoug@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
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 The Council for Boys and Young Men, contact Director of Youth Development Betsy Hamman (419-238-6639 ext 106 or bhamman@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
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)
Agapi Stassinopolis
Programs that Maximize Opportunity
YWCA programs and services provide women, children and families with opportunities to improve their lives and increase independence. Within these programs, adults and children have the potential to become self-sufficient and empowered individuals by learning to reach out to others, gaining trust and surrounding themselves with people that positively influence their success and growth.
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 Director of Youth Development Betsy Hamman (419-238-6639 ext 106
RunJumpThrow (RJT)
In 2014, USATF and The Hershey Company created RunJumpThrow, a hands-on learning program designed to get kids excited about physical activity by introducing them to basic running, jumping, and throwing skills through track and field. RJT is an evidenced-based program that addresses the trend of reduced physical activity among youth and can be instrumental in creating a safe, accessible environment that fosters physical literacy. The YWCA is able to offer the 6 week RunJumpThrow event every July and August at no cost for all youth throughout Van Wert County.
To learn more about RJT , contact Betsy Hamman (bhamman@ywcavanwertcounty.org or 4192386639 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 The Council for Boys and Young Men, contact Director of Youth Development Betsy Hamman (419-238-6639 ext 106 or bhamman@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
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 (bham
Cougar Leaders
In a partnership with Van Wert Middle School, the YWCA provides opportunities for 7th grade students to learn more about our mission and impact their school and community through various projects and grow their leadership potential. Students with leadership qualities are chosen by school staff to work with our Mission Impact Coordinator to take a deeper dive into all that the YWCA does in our community.
Mission Resources
The YWCA Mission Impact Coordinator can provide resources and trainings to assist school administrators and educators in topics which correlate with our mission. Often these resources and trainings are free.
For more information about our Mission Resources, contact Kelly Houg (khoug@ywcavanwertcounty.org or 419236639 ext 311).
Scholarships for Young Women
The YWCA awards three college scholarships of varying amounts to deserving young women living or attending high school in Van Wert County. These funds maybe used at their discretion in pursuit of their future goals or plans. Applicants must be a female Van Wert County high school senior and she must volunteer in a community organization (school driven, YWCA programs, hospital, Red Cross, etc.) and display leadership to fulfill the Mission of the YWCA. Applications are available through each school’s guidance counselor in January and are awarded at the Women of Achievement Scholarship Dinner in March.
St. Mary’s of the Assumption Catholic School Physical Education program
The YWCA provides staff to St. Mary’s School to teach the weekly Physical Education classes for youth K-6.
Independent Living
YWCA staff members are dedicated to helping residents reach independence through accountability, economic advancement, emotional stability, and personal growth. We partner with local realtors to provide affordable housing options for individuals and families in our program who wish to continue their path of independent living outside of the YWCA facility
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)
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 Director of Youth Development Betsy Hamman (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 The Council for Boys and Young Men, contact Director of Youth Development Betsy Hamman (419-238-6639 ext 106 or bhamman@ywcavanwertcounty.org)
Napoleon Hill
Programs that Advocate for Systems Change
