Contact Spring/Summer 2026

A Message from the CEO

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.

YWCA BC VP, Ishtar Executive Director, BC Minister of Housing, 625 Powell Street Foundation at an event celebrating the opening of three new YWCA housing communities.

Housing Update

‘A place to truly call home’: YWCA Housing

Through a partnership with BC Housing’s Women’s Transition Housing Fund, 125 families now have access to stable homes after the opening of three new YWCA housing communities.

Child Care

Bringing Quality Child Care Closer to Home

For over 40 years, YWCA BC has advanced access to quality, affordable child care, and in 2026 we opened our first new centre in 30 years, integrated into housing at YWCA Cindy Beedie Place.

Members of the YWCA Women’s Microenterprise Collective.

Employment

Women’s Microenterprise Collective: Turning Creativity into Opportunity

A new program developed in partnership between YWCA Crabtree Corner and YWCA Employment Navigator is supporting women entrepreneurs to grow their creative talents into craft-based businesses.

Advocacy

The Financial Impact of Gender-Based Violence in BC

Gender‑based violence has devastating personal, community and economic consequences, costing British Columbia an estimated $1.12 billion annually, and reinforcing the urgent need to invest in prevention and systemic change rather than reactive responses.

Employment

Supporting BC Youth on their Employment Journeys

YWCA BC’s NextStep Youth Program helps young people across the province overcome employment barriers through free, trauma‑informed training, hands‑on experience and personalized support that empowers them to pursue meaningful career and education pathways.

Advocacy

Celebrating YWCA City Shift and the Power of Advocacy Alongside Community

YWCA BC marked the conclusion of City Shift with a wrap‑up event celebrating its milestones, partnerships and the impact of peer‑centred advocacy.

Organization

How We’re Addressing Food Insecurity

YWCA BC is responding to rising food costs with programs that improve access to nutritious food, from community meals and food education to the Rooftop Garden’s fresh produce.

Legacy Giving

‘Fabric of My Heart’: A Legacy Giving Story

Through a lifetime of community involvement and connection to YWCA BC, Karen Hoffmann demonstrates how legacy giving can create lasting impact beyond one’s lifetime.

YWCA Health + Fitness

Fitness is for Every Body

Scott, a long‑time member of the YWCA Health & Fitness Club, shares his perspective on accessibility, highlighting how inclusive spaces and supportive staff make fitness more welcoming for people with disabilities.

Hotel Willo

A Fresh Chapter for Downtown Hospitality

The rebrand of the YWCA Hotel to Hotel Willo marks a new chapter, honouring decades of community‑minded hospitality while clarifying its inclusive, purpose‑driven identity.

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