Young Womens Christian Association of The Central Carolinas, Inc.

Programs: Ywca central carolinas youth programs provide year-round afterschool and full day summer programming at no cost to the families of 360 high-poverty youth in kindergarten through 5th grade. Youth are served throughout mecklenburg and union counties in public housing communities, county park and recreation facilities, public schools and the ywca building. The focus is on improving academics, keeping children safe in at-risk environments, and providing holistic support to meet the needs of the families. In 2014-15, 50% of youth were on grade level in reading; 79% improved reading level a minimum of 4 months; and 83% of families engaged in monthly parent meetings/school or volunteer activities.

sarah belk gambrell health and fitness center provides health and fitness activities for over 1,000 members, including free memberships for participants in women in transition and families together and free swimming lessons for youth program participants. The center features a heated indoor pool, weight and cardio facilities, water and land-based fitness classes, an outdoor fitness trail and access to personal training services. In addition, specialty classes such as a triathlon training program (ydub tri-club) and fee-based swim lessons generate additional income for the center.

women in transition provides safe, affordable housing and comprehensive support services for women who have experienced homelessness. The goal is to provide affordable housing, access to community resources and intensive case management needed to help them become economically stable and permanently housed. In 2014-15, 93% of graduates exited into their own permanent housing; and 83% maintained/increased their income while in the program.