CEO Update Spring 2026
As I approach my four-year anniversary as CEO of YWCA BC, I find myself reflecting on the incredible momentum we’ve experienced as an organization. With passion and dedication from employees, volunteers, board members and donors, we are seeing lasting change in our community.
One significant milestone we celebrated at the start of this year was the official launch of our new name: YWCA BC. This name change reflects who we’ve become and where we’re going. Already, we have programs and services for participants outside Metro Vancouver including in Prince George, Kelowna and the Fraser Valley. We can’t wait to see what new opportunities arise to advance equity through action with our new name.
As a leadership team, we’re also taking time to reflect on our 2024 to 2029 Strategic Plan, now that we’re nearing the midway point. I'm extremely proud of the work the organization has done to advance this strategy. We also know a lot has changed in our political, economic and social landscapes since this plan was first created. With that, we’ve committed to reaffirming our key priorities to ensure we are serving communities in the best way possible.
Through these pages, you’ll read about some of the practical ways our Strategic Plan is coming to life. You’ll read more about the conclusion of this current phase of YWCA City Shift and its incredible Participant-Centred Advocacy Council. You’ll hear stories from two of our new employment programs and about the work we’re doing to address food insecurity in our community. You’ll also get updates from our two amazing revenue-generating social enterprises: Hotel Willo and the YWCA Health & Fitness Club.
I remain incredibly grateful to the YWCA employees, volunteers, board members and donors who make this work possible.
Thank you for your commitment to advancing gender equity together.
Erin Seeley
CEO, YWCA BC