Dear Friends of YWCA Hanover,
As we welcome the spring season a time of renewal, growth, and fresh beginnings I’m filled with gratitude for the many hands and hearts that make the work of YWCA Hanover possible Our volunteers are the lifeblood of our organization, and it is because of your time, talents, and compassion that we continue advancing our mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all
This past season, we witnessed the incredible impact volunteers have in building stronger connections across our community From supporting programs and events to assisting behind the scenes, volunteers helped create spaces where learning, dialogue, and belonging could flourish Whether lending a hand at community events, supporting educational sessions, or helping us welcome families into our programs, your service has strengthened the foundation of our work.
Spring also brings new opportunities to get involved We are expanding ways for community members to share their skills and passions whether through event support, program assistance, mentorship, committee service, or special initiatives throughout the year. Volunteering at YWCA Hanover is more than giving time; it’s joining a movement committed to equity, opportunity, and lasting change right here in our community.
If you’ve been considering getting involved, now is the perfect time. Whether you can offer a few hours or ongoing engagement, there is a meaningful role waiting for you.
To our current volunteers: thank you for your dedication and generosity. To those thinking about joining us: we invite you to be part of this important work Together, we can continue cultivating a community rooted in compassion, justice, and opportunity for all Wishing you a season filled with hope and new beginnings
With i i
Van Chief Executive Officer, YWCA Hanover
YWCA Hanover’s Capital Campaign
Construction on our new Children’s Learning Academy is soon coming to an end The Academy, equipped with specialized spaces, including a STEM lab, sensory room, art/music/theater room, teacher planning rooms, an outdoor education center, an expansive kitchen, an expanded parking lot, and more, will provide year-round education and care across 12 classrooms, serving children ages 1 to 12 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 expansion will not only enrich our children but also provide parents with peace of mind knowing their children are in a safe and nurturing environment while they work to build stability for their families
While the Capital Campaign is still underway, please consider donating 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 Academy’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. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at 717-637-2125 to discuss naming recognition opportunities or to support this campaign.
Building Progress
as of March 2026
Children’s Learning Academy
As we ring in spring, our children are learning about their hearts, the importance of dental health, celebrating Chinese New Year, and reminiscing about Dr. Seuss Week. During the first week of March, we celebrated Dr. Seuss with a spirit week, culminating in a family book fair on March 6th to cap off the exciting week!
In the classroom, the children are enjoying the new sensory tables, easels, and dramatic play materials that allow for pretend play and tactile exploration Our kids have been enjoying stimulating activities such as sand and water play, artwork using an easel, and managing a pretend farmers' market
As construction on our new building progresses, the children are eagerly watching the work from our “I Spy” lookout window upstairs and helping to clean, organize, and sort materials that will be moved to the new building
Many items for our outdoor classroom have been ordered and will soon be moved to our outdoor space We have begun inviting prospective parents to tour our new building and enrollment is ongoing We are also hiring new staff as we look toward our move into the Children’s Learning Academy.
If you would like to learn more about the Children’s Learning Academy or enroll, please contact Stacey Pence, Director of Childcare, at 717-637-2125 or spence@ywcahanover.org.
Honoring Teen Dating Violence Month
As February comes to a close, we’re proud to look back on a meaningful and impactful Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM) First recognized in the early 2000s and now observed nationwide each February, TDVAM was created to shine a light on the realities of teen dating violence and to empower young people and those who care for them with the tools to build safe, respectful relationships. It’s a reminder that prevention, education, and support for teens matter, and a good foundation can help them have healthy relationships for their entire lives
Throughout February, our team worked to raise awareness, start conversations, and connect young people and their caregivers with information and resources about healthy relationships and dating violence.
One of our biggest outreach efforts this year was our social media campaign, which shared educational posts on warning signs, healthy vs. unhealthy behaviors, and how to support a friend. These posts helped spark important conversations and reached people of all ages across our community.
We also had the opportunity to join the Better Living Radio Show to talk about teen dating violence, its impact, and how we can all support young people. We’re grateful for the chance to bring this message to a wider audience and help break the silence around abuse.
In addition, we partnered with local libraries to create book displays that center on real-life experiences and honest conversations about teen relationships. These books highlight the realities of dating violence, help readers recognize warning signs, and show that unhealthy behavior is never their fault Just as importantly, they offer hope by sharing stories of strength, support, and healing, so young people know they are not alone and that healthy, respectful relationships are possible
To further engage young people, we’re hosting a screening of The Last Drop, a short sci-fi film about relationship abuse, on the campus of Gettysburg College We hope the event will create space for meaningful conversation about relationship dynamics, warning signs, and how peers can support one another.
While TDVAM may be wrapping up, our work continues year-round. Every teen deserves to feel safe, respected, and supported in their relationships. If you or someone you know needs support, our services are always free and confidential.
Women of Hanover Network
Our first Women of Hanover Network event of the year was a time of great conversations, important connections, and a welcoming atmosphere for all the ladies who attended. Our next event will be on Wednesday, April 15 at the Brookmere Winery in New Oxford. We hope to see you there! th
A Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:
April 4 - The Kindest Red by Ibtihaj Muhammad
The Sandwich Swap by Kelly Dipucchio
Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns by Hena Khan
May 2- A Different Pond by Bao Phi
No Kimchi for Me by Aram Kim
Eyes that Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho
June 6 - Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae
Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes by Eric Litwin and Kimberly Dean
The World Needs More Purple People by Kristin Bell and Benjamin Hart
Stories may change without notice
Mission Impact Programs
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
Lessons in Leadership CVIS (Conewago Valley Intermediate School): Saturday, March 21, 8:45 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Join us for a FREE program for 4 , 5 , and 6th-grade students. This program is in collaboration with the Conewago Valley School District and is designed to empower participants to be strong leaders in their community. Students will enjoy: th th Art Projects
A visit from a local Author Music and Movement Leadership through Theatre Community Service Projects Lunch, Snacks, T-shirt, and Swag Bags
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 The Teen Book Club is for students in 7th through 10th grade and meets in YWCA Hanover’s community room. Jackson Sprague will be the student moderator for this session Registration is required, and all books are provided
Middle School Club: Monday, March 23, 6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Reading “How to Survive a Slasher” by Justine Pucella Winans
Register HERE or scan the QR code.
Teen Night Out: Friday, April 24, 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. Seasonal snacks and refreshments will be provided. This event is free; registration is required to ensure there are enough materials. Please register by 4/23.
LegoRobotics
Formoreinformation,contactShandaWhite atswhite@ywcahanover.orgor(717)637-2125.
Week1:June1-5
Week2:June8-12
Week3:June15-19
Week4:June22-26
Week5:June29-July3
Week6:July6-10
Week7:July13-17
Week8:July20-25
Week9:July27-31
Week10:August3-7
Week11:August10-14
Adult Program Schedule
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 Date:
Thursday, March 26: Maus: A Survivor’s Tale by Art Spiegelman 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, April 15, 5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. at Brookmere Winery. We look forward to seeing you there as we continue to celebrate and uplift the women of Hanover.
Give Local York Celebration: Friday, May 1, 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Support YWCA Hanover during Give Local York and celebrate the power of community giving! Give Local York is a 24-hour online giving event that runs from April 30 at 7 p m through May 1 at 7 p m Visit GiveLocalYork org during the event to make your gift to support YWCA Hanover Every donation makes a difference
In addition, join us on May 1 at YWCA Hanover from 4 p m – 6 p m for a Give Local York Celebration! Guests will enjoy light refreshments while watching the leaderboard and cheering on the impact of local generosity Computers will be available for attendees who would like to make a gift at the event Stop by, connect with friends and supporters, and help make a difference for the programs and services of YWCA Hanover
Kathi Fuhrman is an event committee member serving on the Fund Development Committee and Emerge Committee
Kathi, a Hanover native who graduated from Shippensburg University with a bachelor’s in marketing, established her own marketing agency, Fuhrman Creative, after working 10 years in insurance marketing and launched a second business, The Savvy ReBoot, that focuses on helping women jumpstart their goals
The wife and mother of two was first introduced to YWCA committees when she joined the board of directors Initially serving on the Fund Development and Mission Impact committees, she enjoyed learning about YWCA Hanover’s mission so much that she jumped at the opportunity to join an event committee. One thing that pushed her to join was her family’s goal of “adopting a nonprofit,” so all four members could volunteer and lend support. Her decision to join YWCA Hanover was made easy by our organization’s mission and the great work we do in the community, which allowed her to introduce her boys to the importance of serving their community.
Committee Member
While Kathi loves both the Fund Development and Emerge, Emerge holds a special place in her heart because it was the first YWCA event she attended as a business owner She fell in love with the welcoming environment where women come together to learn and network To Kathi, Emerge was an opportunity to connect women with other women to help grow their circles and support each other
“The ability to enter a space where all are welcome, where so many women come together, where you can learn, and leave with a new friend is an incredible gift,” she states Kathi’s advice to anyone interested in becoming a committee member is to give it a try
“One thing I have learned is that every committee and event is uniq ”
Upcoming Fundraising Events
Golfing Gals: Women’s Golf Clinic & Luncheon focuses on hands-on learning with a golf professional in a supportive, welcoming environment designed to help you feel confident on the course. Participants will receive hands-on instruction from an experienced professional, focusing on core fundamentals, technique, and practical tips that can be applied immediately on the course. Whether you are brand new or looking to sharpen your skills, this clinic is designed to build confidence, improve your game, and make golf more enjoyable for every skill level The event will also feature a casual lunch designed to network, share experiences, and build meaningful connections with other women Register Today!
Sponsorship opportunities are available Don’t hesitate to contact Kristin Warner at kwarner@ywcahanover org or call 717-637-2125
Event Date: Friday, May 8, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Walk a Mile in Her Shoes works to combat gender-based violence against women by inviting men to, literally, walk a mile in women’s high-heeled shoes This fun and important event sparks conversation surrounding gender relations and men’s sexual violence against women in our community. Participating men symbolically put themselves in the place of women to raise awareness about the devastating effects of sexual and domestic violence in our community. Proceeds help to provide services for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking through our Safe Home program.
Event Date: Friday, August 7, 5 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.
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 Committee Members Needed!
If you would like to help plan any of these important fundraising events, join an event committee today!
Event Date: Friday, October 9, 8:15 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Meetings occur monthly at noon in YWCA Hanover’s Community Room or over Zoom for anyone who cannot attend in person. Committee meetings are ongoing!
For questions or considerations, contact Kristin Warner at kwarner@ywcahanover.o or call 717-637-2125.
Funding the Mission
YWCA Hanover is a mission-driven, nonprofit organization committed to providing services and programs at low cost or 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, Upstanders, and our Youth Leadership Council
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!
YWCA Hanover Board of Directors
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
Stacey Pence, Director of Childcare
Sarah Harvey, Director of Safe Home
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 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
