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WINTER 2025

YW MATTERS The latest news and updates from YWCA Hanover

YWCA Hanover’s Capital Campaign Our new Children’s Learning Academy construction is underway! The Academy will provide year-round education and care in 12 classrooms for children ages 1-12 years old. It will feature specialized spaces, including a sensory room, STEM lab, art/music/theater room, teacher planning rooms, an outdoor education center, an expansive kitchen, an expanded parking lot, and more. Additionally, the original YWCA Hanover facility renovation will offer expanded space for community use, YWCA mission programs and events, administrative functions, and more. This Academy will allow us to expand our much-needed childcare services and better serve the community. Affordable childcare is more than a service; it is a lifeline for families and a cornerstone of a strong community. We will provide an enriching environment where our children can play, learn, and develop the social and emotional skills they need to thrive. This Scan the QR Code expansion will not only enrich our children but also provide parents with peace of mind knowing to Support! their children are in a safe and nurturing environment while they work to build stability for their families. The Capital Campaign is still underway. Please consider making a donation to support this next chapter in our organization’s history. You can also honor a loved one by engraving their name or initials on a brick wall at the building’s entrance. Honor Wall Sponsors can purchase a small brick (2-1/4" x 7-5/8") for $250.00 or a large brick (3-5/8" x 11.5") for $500.00. Leave your mark on the Children’s Learning Academy and support the legacy of YWCA Hanover. To support this important project, donate or purchase a brick HERE or scan the QR code. Please contact us at 717-637-2125 to discuss naming recognition opportunities or to support this campaign.

Building progress as of December 2025

Architect’s Rendering

Dear Friends of YWCA Hanover, As we enter the winter season, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you—our supporters, partners, volunteers, and community members—who continue to uplift and fuel the mission of YWCA Hanover. Your generosity and engagement have made the past few months especially meaningful, and I’m proud to share some of the incredible moments we’ve experienced together. This fall, we saw our community come together in powerful ways. Our events brought neighbors, families, and partners into shared spaces where dialogue, learning, and celebration could thrive. Whether you joined us for Emerge or educational programs like the Holocaust session or community-building activities like “Cozy up With Books,” your presence helped strengthen the connections that make our work so impactful. We also had the privilege of collaborating with several outstanding local organizations and leaders including the York County Community Foundation, Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce, and Community Progress Council. These partnerships allowed us to extend our reach, share resources, and create opportunities that support our mission of empowering individuals and promoting justice for all. Together, we’ve cultivated supportive environments that reflect the very best of our community. As we look ahead to a new year, I am inspired by the continued commitment I see in each of you. Thank you for standing with us, for believing in our mission, and for helping us create lasting change, here in Hanover. Your support makes every success possible, and we are deeply grateful. Wishing you warmth, joy, and peace this winter season. With appreciation,

Vanessa Berger Chief Executive Officer, YWCA Hanover

Meet Khamelia, our new Coordinator of Advancement & Marketing! I am so excited about my new role here at YWCA Hanover as the Coordinator of Advancement & Marketing. I am honored to be a part of an organization that prides itself on serving the most vulnerable members of our community. I am inspired by this organization’s mission towards empowering women, and expanding racial justice, peace, freedom, and dignity for all. I am also inspired by the team’s dedication to fulfilling this purpose. I have over five years of experience working in marketing and communications, and public broadcasting. I’ve worked for and with non-profits, my university’s communications office, and corporate companies. I am thrilled to be able to add my skills and experience to an already phenomenal team and help to improve the organization and expand its goals and positive impact on the community. I am just starting out in my career, but I strive to continue to work with community-focused organizations and help them craft a narrative about their work that communicates their impact and importance to the greater community. I am excited to learn more about the organization and am dedicated to being an asset in making YWCA Hanover better for everyone. Kindly,

Khamelia Henderson

Exciting Times in the Early Learning Center As the winter season unfolds, YWCA Hanover is excited to share how we continue creating a nurturing, engaging, and magical environment for the children in our community. Whether you’re exploring childcare options or simply curious about what we offer, here’s a look at what’s been happening at YWCA Hanover’s Early Learning Center. This year, our Early Learning Center has been very busy! In October, we focused on fire safety and welcomed local firefighters and their trucks for an educational visit. At the end of the month, several downtown businesses participated in our annual Candy Crawl. The children enjoyed wearing their costumes, trick-or-treating through local shops, and collecting lots of goodies to take home. In November, we shifted our focus to gratitude and celebrated together during our annual Family Thanksgiving Lunch with the help of volunteer servers from Conewago Enterprises Inc. Our Mission Outreach team hosted Cozy Up with Books for our childcare families, where children won prizes, received books to take home, and enjoyed a wonderful evening centered around the joy of reading. Our Early Learning Center students also continue to enjoy weekly music lessons with Miss Deb. The children also enjoy monthly visits from certified therapy dogs. These visits offer comfort, emotional support, and joyful interaction—something the children look forward to each month. In early December, the children received a very special surprise—Santa stopped by for a visit! The joy and excitement were unforgettable as he greeted each classroom and shared holiday cheer with all of the children. If you would like to find out more information or register for the Early Learning Center or School Age Learning Academy, please contact Katie Nelson at 717-637-2125 or email knelson@ywcahanover.org.

Honoring Domestic Violence Awareness Month Each October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) shines a light on the realities of abuse and provides an opportunity to come together and show support for survivors and strengthen our community’s commitment to safety and respect. This year, our team embraced that mission through a range of events designed to inform, empower, and connect. We kicked off the month with a public screening of The Mask You Live In, a powerful documentary that explores how rigid gender expectations can contribute to violence. The discussion that followed encouraged honest reflection and underscored how prevention begins with reshaping the messages we send about identity, emotions, and relationships. One new addition to our DVAM lineup was our Resilience Art Gallery, a powerful collection of artwork created by survivors. The gallery highlighted strength, healing, and hope through art, offering visitors a meaningful way to engage with survivors’ voices and honor their journey. The gallery reminded our community that resilience thrives even in the face of harm. Our “Stuff the Van” event brought the community together in another meaningful way. Thanks to many generous donors, we collected pantry items that directly support survivors fleeing domestic violence by meeting immediate needs so they can focus on safety and healing. Throughout the month, we also partnered with local libraries for special book readings centered on empowerment, kindness, and healthy relationships. With college students, we hosted a bingo event centered on healthy relationships, a fun and engaging activity that opened the door to conversations about boundaries, consent, and what respectful partnerships look like. Beyond these events, our advocates continued outreach across the community, sharing resources, answering questions, and raising awareness wherever it was needed. DVAM matters because awareness leads to action, and action saves lives. Every conversation we start, every resource we share, and every person we educate strengthens our community’s ability to recognize abuse, support survivors, and prevent violence before it begins. Thank you to everyone who participated, donated, and helped spread the message this October. Together, we are building a safer, more compassionate community.

EMERGE Women’s Conference Our annual EMERGE Women’s Conference was an empowering day of education, inspiration, and connection for all of our attendees! This amazing event included two keynote speakers, 20 breakout sessions, breakfast, lunch, and a networking reception. We hope to see you next year!

For over a century, YWCA Hanover has served as a cornerstone of our community, building a remarkable heritage of meaningful change and lasting influence. Throughout more than 100 years, we have provided engaging educational programs, essential services, secure housing options, and diverse community events. Our unwavering dedication remains focused on delivering relevant, impactful initiatives that advance our core mission: empowering women, eliminating racism, and fostering peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for everyone. For inquiries about upcoming Mission Outreach events or to access program schedules, please contact Shanda White at swhite@ywcahanover.org.

Youth & Teen Program Schedule Do you enjoy hanging out with nonjudgmental people in a safe and fun environment? Are you looking for a way to positively impact your school and community? Maybe it's time you joined YWCA Hanover's Youth Leadership Council. We are a group of 7th - 12th graders who are committed to making a difference through leadership and advocacy. Our council members collaborate on meaningful projects addressing important community issues. Through bimonthly meetings, community initiatives, and our popular Teen Night Out events, we develop valuable skills while creating positive change. For more information, please contact either Deb Smith, dsmith@ywcahanover.org, or Nanci Mart, nmart@ywcahanover.org. Upcoming Date: January 4 from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Qmmunity provides a welcoming and supportive space for LGBTQIA+ teens ages 13-19 and their allies to connect, express themselves authentically, and build meaningful friendships. Our program celebrates individuality while fostering a sense of belonging through engaging activities, open discussions, and community-building experiences in a safe, judgment-free environment where every voice is valued and respected. Upcoming Dates: Friday, January 9: Movie showing: Jurassic Park at 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Friday, February 20: Identity Mask Making Workshop 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Register HERE or scan the QR code.

New Year, New Friends

New Year, New Friends: Looking for a fun indoor activity to beat the winter chill? YWCA Hanover’s Upstanders are hosting a FREE fun day for children in grades K-4! Kids will enjoy games in the gym, music and art activities, & snacks. Bring a friend or make a new one! All children in kindergarten through 4th grade are welcome to join us. Registration is required & space is limited. Upcoming Date: Saturday, January 10, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Register HERE or scan the QR code.

Girls Loving Life: Our team designs engaging lessons and activities that inspire girls in grades 2 - 8 to grow into capable, compassionate, and smart young women. High school mentors work with the program’s leaders to help the important girl in your life discover her unique strengths in a supportive community where she can thrive. Girls Loving Life is built on five core tenets: Love Your Body – Embrace and appreciate yourself Love Yourself – Develop self-confidence and positive self-image Love Others – Foster compassion and meaningful relationships Love Learning and Growing – Seek knowledge and opportunities Love Life – Celebrate authenticity and find joy every day The program fee is $10. However, no one will be turned away due to an inability to pay. Contact Louis Mart for financial assistance at 717-637-2125 or e-mail lmart@ywcahanover.org. Our next session begins January 10! Scan the QR code or visit our website to sign up your young lady and help her take the first step toward discovering just how powerful she truly is! Register HERE or scan the QR code.

Upstanders: Students in grades 6 - 12 who are looking to make a difference in Hanover will meet to discuss: Adopting a school, Beautification projects in Hanover, Ways to support YWCA Hanover’s mission of eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting, peace justice, and dignity for all. For more information, please email dsmith@ywcahanover.org. Upcoming Meeting: January 11, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. at YWCA Hanover.

Teen Book Clubs: For teenagers navigating complex social landscapes, reading offers a unique window into the inner worlds of peers experiencing similar challenges, struggles, and transformative moments of self-discovery. Both our high school and middle school book clubs meet in YWCA Hanover’s community room. Ashleigh Tomcics, with student moderator Jeremy Fisher, will lead January’s meeting. Registration required and all books are provided. Middle School Club: Monday, January 12, 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Reading Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card Monday, March 23, 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. High School Club: Monday, February 23, 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Reading Punching Bag by Rex Ogle Register HERE or scan the QR code.

MLK Workshop for Teens: Monday, January 19, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. YWCA Hanover's Upstanders Youth Council will offer a workshop for students in 6th - 12th grade. Workshop Schedule: 8:45 a.m. - Registration and light breakfast 9:00 a.m. - Introductions and plan for the day 9:15 a.m. - Guest Speaker, Christopher Vasquez* 9:45 a.m. - Activity 10:30 a.m. - Snack 10:45 a.m. - Service projects at the Guthrie Library 11:45 a.m. - Return to YWCA Hanover 12:00 p.m. - Dismissal *Christopher Vasquez is a senior at Messiah University pursuing a B.A. in Music & Worship. He is an active leader in campus life, regularly contributing to university-wide worship and musical events as a drummer, bassist, guitarist, or vocalist. Christopher is currently serving as the Chair of Messiah University’s Multicultural Council, where he leads and supports the university’s seven cultural organizations to promote unity, reconciliation, and a thriving multicultural community. The program fee is $10. However, no one will be turned away due to an inability to pay. Contact Louis Mart for financial assistance at 717-637-2125 or e-mail lmart@ywcahanover.org. Register HERE or scan the QR Code.

Teen Night Out: Friday, January 30, 7 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Teens in grades 7 - 12 will enjoy a night of fun with crafts, open gym, board games, and more. This month, teens will have the opportunity to make a vision board and design their own t-shirt. Seasonal snacks and refreshments will be provided. This event is free; registration is required to ensure there are enough materials. Please register by 1/28. Register HERE or scan the QR code.

Malala Workshop: Saturday, March 14, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. As a young girl, Malala Yousafzai defied the Taliban in Pakistan and demanded that girls be allowed to receive an education. She was shot in the head by a Taliban gunman in 2012 but survived. In 2014, she became the youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. “We need to encourage girls that their voice matters. I think there are hundreds and thousands of Malalas out there.” -Malala Yousafzai Girls in grades 1 - 6 will learn about Malala, create art projects, play games, have snacks, and more. The workshop will feature sessions with Hanover Public School teachers Marie Willey and Madison Maloney. Space is limited, and the cost is $10. Register HERE or scan the QR code.

Adult Program Schedule Remember, Reflect, Respond: A Holocaust Education Workshop Series is a free program that helps our community confront ignorance with knowledge and transforms hate into understanding. Join Deb Smith, a United States Holocaust Memorial Museum Teacher Fellow with an MA in Holocaust and Genocide Studies, and Rachel Singer, the Director of Jewish Life and F&M Hillel at Franklin & Marshall College, as they discuss the harrowing realities of the Holocaust and the importance of remembrance, understanding, and empathy. Upcoming Dates: Sunday, January 11, 6 p.m.: Propaganda and the Holocaust (Deb Smith) Sunday, January 25, 6 p.m.: US and the Holocaust (Deb Smith) Sunday, February 8, 6 p.m.: Being Jewish today (Rachel Singer) Sunday, February 22, 6 p.m.: Antisemitism today (Rachel Singer) Sunday, March 15, 6 p.m.: Holocaust Survivor Zoom Presentation All programs will end by 8:00 p.m. Register HERE or scan the QR code.

CELEBRATION OF BOOKS Celebration of Books honors the importance of literature and features local author, Hannah Evans. Join us IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

for this free event featuring free books, make your own bookmark, banned book brick painting, banned book trivia, and snacks! Register online to attend. Contact Deb Smith at 717-637-2125 or dsmith@ywcahanover.org for questions. Upcoming Date: Sunday, January 18, 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. in YWCA Hanover’s Community Room Register HERE or scan the QR code.

Banned Book Club: Join us as we explore banned books with other interested adults. Discussions are held in a relaxed and judgment-free atmosphere. This is a free program, but registration is required. Donations received will purchase books for our teen book clubs. Upcoming Dates: Thursday, January 22: Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury Thursday, March 26: Maus: A Survivor’s Tale by Art Spiegelman Register HERE or scan the QR code.

Red Sand Human Trafficking Awareness & Education Event raises awareness for human trafficking victims and survivors who “fall through the cracks of our social, economic, and political systems, or those of our personal consciousness.” Join Safe Home and over one million global participants for symbolic sand pouring, an educational presentation, and remarks from local officials in remembrance for victims and survivors of human trafficking in our communities and around the world. Upcoming Date: Friday, January 30, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. in YWCA Hanover’s Community Room. Please RSVP by 1/20/2026. For questions, contact Rachel Wonder at 717-632-0007 or rwonder@ywcahanover.org.

Beginning Spanish Classes: Explore the Spanish-speaking world with Martha Hernandez of CASA. Develop language and skills that can expand job prospects and opportunities, engage in the richness of Spanish culture, and gain the knowledge that will increase your confidence to travel to Spanish-speaking countries. Upcoming Dates: Saturday, January 31 Saturday, February 7 Saturday, February 14 Saturday, February 21 Classes run 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Register HERE.

Tulsa Race Massacre: Remembering Greenwood - Join us for an important conversation about a thriving community destroyed and a history long hidden. In 1921, Greenwood—known as "Black Wall Street"—was one of the most prosperous African American neighborhoods in America. Over two days, it was burned to the ground in one of the worst acts of racial violence in U.S. history. For decades, this tragedy was erased from textbooks and public memory. Learn about the resilient people who built Greenwood, the devastation they endured, and why remembering this history matters today. Featuring former Hanover Mayor, Myneca Ojo. This program offers a space to reflect, discuss, and honor the truth of our shared past. Upcoming Date: Wednesday, February 11, 7 p.m. in YWCA Hanover’s Community Room. This program is free and registration is required. Register HERE or scan the QR code.

Women of Hanover Network: YWCA Hanover is proud to host the quarterly Women of Hanover Network (WOHN), a vibrant networking event. This initiative empowers women in our community to connect, grow, and thrive. The WOHN provides an invaluable platform for networking, mentorship, and inspiration. Through this event, women are able to build meaningful connections, share experiences, and discover new ways to advance both professionally and personally. We are excited to announce that our next Women of Hanover Networking event will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Location to be announced. We look forward to seeing you there as we continue to celebrate and uplift the women of Hanover.

Fundraising Events in 2026 Literary Week: YWCA Hanover is excited to announce a new Literary Week, taking place March 2–6 in celebration of Read Across America Week! This special week will highlight the joy and importance of reading through engaging activities for all ages, including appearances by celebrity readers who will share their favorite stories. Adding an extra touch of magic, Shining Star’s mini horses, Thelma and Louise, will make a special visit to delight participants and promote the love of literacy in a truly memorable way. Event Date: March 2 - 6

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes works to combat rape, sexual assault, and gender-based violence by inviting men to literally walk a mile in women’s high-heeled shoes. This fun and important event sparks conversations surrounding gender relations and men’s sexual violence against women in our community. Participating men symbolically put themselves in the place of women in order to raise awareness about the devastating effects of sexual and domestic violence in our community. Funds raised help to provide services for survivors of domestic violence through our Safe Home program. Event Date: Friday, August 7, 5 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.

7th ANNUAL

EMERGE Women’s Conference is a one-day professional and personal development event for women. Attendees will enjoy inspirational stories from engaging speakers, and seminars featuring important issues such as health & wellness, career development, leadership, work/life balance, and more. Participating women have an incredible opportunity to network with other female business leaders, further develop professional skills, and experience personal growth. Event Date: Friday, October 9, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

EN'S M O W linic Golf C

Women’s Golf Clinic is a new event that will provide a space for women to develop golf skills and enjoy fellowship with other women. Under the guidance of experienced golf professionals, women of all playing levels will develop new skills and learn helpful techniques. Details coming soon. Sponsorship opportunities are available, please contact Kristin Warner at kwarner@ywcahanover.org or call 717-637-2125. Event Date: To be Announced

Event Committee Members Needed! If you would like to help plan any of these important fundraising events, join an event committee today! Meetings occur monthly at noon in YWCA Hanover’s Community Room or over Zoom for anyone that cannot attend in person. Committee meetings start in January! For questions or considerations, contact Kristin Warner at kwarner@ywcahanover.org or call 717-6372125.

Funding the Mission YWCA Hanover is a mission driven, nonprofit organization committed to providing services and programs at low cost to no cost to fulfill our purpose of creating sustainable change in our community. Show your commitment to the community by supporting our 2026 Mission Impact Campaign. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our generous supporters. Your contributions have been instrumental in helping us advance our mission and make a meaningful impact. Creating sustainable financial support for educational programs for the victims of domestic violence Providing opportunities for building life skills, developing self-esteem, self-respect, and growth for the children in our Children’s Learning Academy Sustaining youth programs like Girls Loving Life and Upstanders Assisting with tuition for our Children’s Learning Academy and Summer Camp And so much more… YWCA Hanover is growing quickly and thriving, meeting the needs of our community in unprecedented ways and facing the social injustices around us head on. We need support to continue on our exciting path. If you would like to support YWCA Hanover's Mission Impact Campaign, scan the QR code or use the link below to make an online donation. For more information about how you can support the YWCA Hanover, please contact Kristin Warner, Director of Advancement, at kwarner@ywcahanover.org

Scan the QR Code to support YWCA Hanover!

Click to Support the 2026 Mission Impact Campaign Today!

YWCA Hanover Board of Directors 2025 Standing L-R: Jess Miller, Kathi Fuhrman, Laura Bosley, Devon Ellis, Kelly Rebert, Mickey Quinn, Elizabeth Johnides, Stephanie Werner Seated L-R: Jess Kelley - Treasurer, Justine Trucksess - Board President, Kristin Hart - Board Secretary

YWCA Hanover Management Team Vanessa Berger, Chief Executive Officer Sherri Staub, Chief Financial Officer Louis Mart, Director of Client Services & Technology

Katie Nelson, Director of Childcare Sarah Harvey, Director of Safe Home Lisa Staub, School Age Manager

Kristin Warner, Director of Advancement Shanda White, Outreach and Programs Supervisor Khamelia Henderson, Coordinator of Advancement and Marketing

YWCA Hanover’s Facility Rentals Louis Mart, Director of Client Services & Technology YWCA Hanover’s gymnasium is now equipped with A/C and Heat. Plan your seasonal sports practices now. Our multi-purpose room is perfect for one-day workshops or conferences and is especially popular for evening parties and celebrations. For more information, contact Louis Mart at (717) 637-2125.