Youth Empowerment

YWCA Wheeling’s Youth Empowerment Program provides a positive impact on young people’s ability to improve their leadership and communication skills, self-expectation and resilience. We focus on empowerment by teaching the practices of emotional intelligence, assertive self-expression and healthy relationships, giving girls the skills and confidence to live as leaders.

The prevalence of risky behaviors can have a negative impact on a young person’s ability to grow and develop into a healthy, productive adult. Research shows that when young people achieve academic success, have significant relationships with caring adults, and are involved in community service and extracurricular activities they are empowered and less likely to engage in risky behaviors.

Through the Youth Empowerment Program (YEP) we help to provide young girls with:

  • Communication Skills
  • Leadership Skills
  • Positive Character Building
  • Critical Thinking & Conflict Resolution
  • Assertiveness & Refusal Skills
  • Healthy Decision Making & Risk Taking
  • Community Service & Engagement
  • Civic Responsibility
  • Team Building
  • Life Skills
  • STEAM Programming (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math)

The YWCA Wheeling’s Youth Empowerment Program, established in 2016, has seen many successful events that have reached numerous youth throughout the Ohio Valley.

2022 was the first year since COVID-19 that the YWCA held the Youth Leadership Challenge for 6 young women from all over the Ohio Valley. If you are interested in being a part of the Youth Empowerment Program, please contact us at 304-232-0511. 

Youth Leadership Challenge Video 2022

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Helping Since 1906

YWCA Wheeling is one of 300 Associations in the Nation and has been a prominent part of the Northern Panhandle since 1906.

MORE YWCA WHEELING PROGRAMS

The YWCA Wheeling is on a Mission to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

Women Inspired in New Directions (WIND)

A non-treatment recovery home that offers peer support and case management for women in recovery seeking a “New Direction” for their lives that is addiction free.
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Survivors of Trafficking Empowerment Program (STEP)

Dedicated to supporting survivors of labor and sex trafficking in West Virginia. We provide emergency shelter, transitional housing, and legal and case management services to all victims of human trafficking – labor and sex trafficking – including men, women, children, foreign nationals or U.S. citizens.
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Family Violence Prevention Program (FVPP)

A multifaceted and diverse domestic violence program geared towards ending the cycle of abuse.
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Cultural Diversity Community Outreach (CDCO)

The Cultural Diversity Community Outreach (CDCO) program provides advocacy for victims of discrimination and prejudice, culturally specific domestic violence advocacy, cultural and diversity awareness workshops and school programming.

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Residence and Homeless Shelter

A program that houses single women over the age of 18 in a community style residence.

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Y-Not-Repeat Boutique

A program that houses single women over the age of 18 in a community style residence.A boutique that accepts gently used donated clothing from the community and helps clothe women going back into the work force.

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ELMINATING RACISM

Since 1905, the YWCA Wheeling has been at the forefront of racial justice in the Northern Panhandle. We are devoted to taking a stand to eliminate racism and promote inclusion and tolerance for all.

EMPOWERING WOMEN

We are committed to providing programs and services that equip women with the tools they need to impact their lives, their families lives, and the lives of women around them.

BUILDING COMMUNITY TOGETHER

We believe bringing communities together provides opportunities for support and connections for all.

ADVOCATE FOR CHANGE

We are dedicated to creating systemic change for women and people of color.

TESTIMONIALS

Young Women's Christian Associates of Wheeling Makes a Difference

This is where I came a few years ago with my two small girls to escape a truly abusive, dangerous situation. I credit the YWCA with giving me my life back
Denise
YWCA is a blessing to many women near and far. I personally needed help after being in a violent relationship. The staff were so compassionate and helpful, which helped me heal and get back on my feet. The YWCA is and always will be a temple of healing for women in Wheeling.
Erin G.
The YWCA Wheeling provides critical resources to the Ohio Valley and incredible programming created to empower and engage! Top notch leadership too.
Rosemary K.
Amazing women doing amazing things!
Hannah H
Very safe. The staff are angels.
PJ B.

Make an Impact in the Ohio Valley

Thanks for your interest in joining us on our mission to eliminate racism and empower women! Your voice matters as we stand up for social justice, help families and strengthen communities. Whether you have five minutes, or can commit five hours of your time, learn how you can plug in to the YWCA community.

Get Involved

CONTACT US

Have a question? Get in contact with YWCA Wheeling.

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