REPORT impact 2023-2024
OUR CEO A Letter from
Dear Friends and Supporters,
As we reflect on the past year, it’s a time to celebrate and acknowledge the collective impact of our dedicated community. I am deeply honored to share the YWCA Princeton’s annual impact report, a testament to the unwavering commitment and resilience of our supporters, staff, and volunteers.
Over the past year, we have faced numerous challenges, but we have also seen tremendous growth and transformation. Our programs have reached new heights, providing critical support and services to those who need them most. Whether it’s through our early childhood programs, our workforce development programs, or advocacy efforts, our mission to eliminate racism and empower women and families continues to guide every step we take.
I am also excited to announce that the Board of Directors has adopted a new strategic plan that will shape our work in the coming years. This plan reflects our deep commitment to evolving with the needs of our community and amplifying our impact. It outlines ambitious goals to strengthen our programs, enhance our services, and advocate more effectively for systemic change. As we move forward with this plan, we are more focused than ever on creating lasting and meaningful change.
In this report, you will read about the lives we’ve touched and the progress we’ve made towards our goals. From providing safe and supportive environments for breast cancer survivors and thrivers to creating opportunities for women to learn new skills and language to secure employment, our work is making a tangible difference. Each story and statistic represent a person whose life has been positively impacted by the dedication of our YWCA family. I am inspired by the courage and strength of the individuals we serve, and I am equally inspired by the commitment of our supporters and staff. Your belief in our mission fuels our progress and inspires us to strive for even greater achievements.
Thank you for being a vital part of this journey. Your support not only helps us to sustain our programs but also empowers us to expand our reach and deepen our impact. Together, we are building a more equitable and just world.
With gratitude and hope,
Rosanda Wong Chief Executive Officer
INTRODUCTION
At YWCA Princeton, we are committed to making a tangible difference in our community. One way we achieve this is by producing our annual impact report. This report serves several vital purposes.
First and foremost, it is about transparency and accountability. We believe in openly sharing our achievements, challenges, and future goals with our stakeholders, demonstrating that we are responsibly using the resources entrusted to us to fulfill our mission.
Our impact report is also a key tool for community engagement. We want to keep our community members, donors, and partners informed about the activities and positive outcomes their support has helped us achieve. Our hope is that this transparency helps build a stronger, more connected community.
Our impact report also serves as a powerful tool for advocacy and awareness. It helps raise awareness about the pressing issues we address, such as racial and gender inequality, and highlights our efforts in combating these challenges.
Recognizing and celebrating the contributions of our staff, volunteers, and supporters is also essential. Our impact report allows us to acknowledge their hard work and dedication!
Finally, our impact report is a valuable tool for benchmarking and evaluation. It helps us evaluate the effectiveness of our programs and benchmark our progress against our goals and industry standards.
We are proud to share our journey with you through our impact report, and we hope it inspires continued support and collaboration as we work together to create a more inclusive and equitable community.
SO FAR our story
Our Mission
The YWCA Princeton is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.
YWCA Princeton's programs are continuously evolving and expanding to address the ever-changing needs of the community. Our commitment to innovation and inclusivity allows us to adapt our offerings, ensuring we remain a vital support system for those we serve.
We accomplished a great deal this year, thanks to the unwavering support of community members like you. Your dedication has been instrumental in our success.
Our Purpose
To empower women and eliminate racism, we must meet our clients where they are most vulnerable and provide the compassion and services that place them on a path to self-sufficiency and prosperity. Our vision is that all women and their families can achieve their full potential in a world without discrimination.
This requires a focus on the future, anticipating the needs of our clients, and creating innovative solutions to the problems they most often face –poverty, unsafe living conditions, lack of reliable and affordable childcare, and under- or unemployment.
1 PLAN 2025 Strategic
As we gaze into the future, we've not only looked ahead but also around us. We've listened to the voices of our community donors, partners, parents, volunteers, and staff. We've grieved, advocated for change, and focused our efforts with renewed intensity post the racial awakening that spread throughout the country after the tragic events surrounding George Floyd's murder.
... the mission of YWCA Princeton by creating more explicit ties between our programs and our mission, building broader awareness about our mission, activating ambassadors for our mission and cultivating high impact partnerships characterized by mutual clarity around roles and expectations as well as routine evaluation of efficacy of partnerships.
2 AMPLIFY...
OPTIMIZE...
.... talent, cultivate a healthy organizational culture, and advance workforce transformation for the future by systematically engaging in assessing employee experience and organizational culture; developing and implementing strategies that center equity and psychological safety; creating opportunities for ongoing professional development; and exhibiting excellence in leadership and the highest level of performance throughout the organization.
3
ENSURE...
... financial sustainability and facilities are fit-for-purpose to accommodate program expansion and community engagement. Focusing on the development of financial strategy and building of the development team to implement the strategy will help ensure financial sustainability. Financial sustainability is mission sustainability.
RACIAL JUSTICE Advocacy and
YWCA Princeton is committed in our efforts in advocacy and racial justice in Mercer County and the surrounding area. This year, 327 community members participated in our mission events. We also hosted programs aimed at empowering marginalized communities and fostering inclusion, inspiring active participation in the fight for equality and justice.
Founded by YWCA Trenton and YWCA Princeton in 2007, Stand Against Racism quickly expanded nationwide by 2010. While the campaign has evolved, its core mission remains: empowering all women by confronting systemic racism. This year, YWCA Princeton honored this legacy with a conversation featuring Dr. Roxane Gay. Our Stand Against Racism raised awareness of institutional racism and fostered community among those committed to racial justice. We’re thrilled that 225 participants joined us in this challenge, highlighting our shared commitment to a more just and equitable society.
“Having read Roxane Gay’s articles, I knew to expect an evening of sharp insights that would cut through our political and cultural murkiness, and this evening did not disappoint! ... She made us think, laugh, and feel empowered to create change. Thank you, YWCA Princeton, for bringing Roxane Gay to our area for this great evening!” - Kathleen Nash
This year concluded our 2 year program for YWCA USA’s STRIVE workforce development program. With the goal bridging the gap and break down barriers in the technology field, this program supported over 60 participants from throughout Mercer County in creating Gmail accounts, typing skills, storytelling, enhanced interview practices, and other workforce readiness skills. We held 8 cohorts in total between October 2022 and June 2024.
Participants were able to walk away with professional headshots, LinkedIn profiles and a newfound confidence to be able to tackle the necessities of a digital world. One of our classes successfully formed a tenants council using the skills they acquired through our program!
RESOURCE CENTER Breast Cancer
This year has been an extraordinary one for the Breast Cancer Resource Center (BCRC). In 2024, we welcomed 96 new members, bringing new voices and their journeys into our supportive community. Our dedication to serving those affected by breast cancer remains unwavering, as evidenced by the 10,596 services we have provided throughout the year. From essential resources and support to fostering a sense of belonging and hope, the BCRC continues to be a vital lifeline for countless women in our community.
Over the past year, we hosted or participated in 37 outreach events and 3 seminars at schools, sororities, senior communities, businesses, and other organizations. Highlights include our October Balance Work vs. Cancer seminar, January Intimacy Workshop, and March Triple Negative Lunch and Learn. These initiatives have expanded our reach and fostered supportive communities through targeted cancer education and engagement.
Beyond our staff, the BCRC has been supported by 65 incredible volunteers over the past year. We are deeply grateful for your unwavering dedication and the hard work you’ve contributed. Your commitment has been essential to our success and impact, and we sincerely appreciate each and every one of you for making a difference.
EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER The Burke Foundation
PROGRAMS STUDENTS
NEW STUDENTS EVENTS 4 200 118 4
Our Burke Foundation Early Childhood Center (TBFECC) provides affordable childcare, including before and after care, for children aged 8 weeks to 6 years. Currently, 44% of our students receive scholarships or assistance. We take a Whole Child, Whole Family approach, partnering with agencies to offer wraparound support services. Our center celebrates the diversity of families from over 25 countries, with 13 languages spoken. Bilingual education, endorsed by both New Jersey and U.S. Departments of Education, enhances cognitive development, academic performance, and economic opportunities while fostering empathy and cultural understanding.
Thanks to PNC Foundation’s Grow Up Great grant, we hosted enrichment activities for both students and parents. With over 50 parents participating in various events, our commitment to family engagement remains strong. These events strengthen the bond between home and school, fostering a supportive community where parents and educators collaborate for children’s success. We are appreciative of our families' involvement and look forward to continuing our meaningful partnership with the Princeton Area Community Foundation.
“I enrolled my son in Burke when he was almost two. He began school a shy boy, one who would cling to my leg in unfamiliar situations and had zero interest in other children. But in the last few months, I’ve seen the most incredible changes in him. He will go up to every child he sees to say hello and ask to play... As a parent, I’ve never felt anything other than comfort in leaving him in the care of the Burke staff
Enrolling him here is a decision I would make again one hundred times over.”
- Anonymous parent
We are proud to say that 25 children graduated from our program, ready to thrive in kindergarten and beyond. Each child has shown remarkable growth, and we are confident they are ready for the next step in their education. We wish them and their families a bright future. Their accomplishments reflect the dedication of their families and our educators, and we are proud to have supported their early success. It has been a privilege to be part of their journey, and we look forward to their future milestones.
PROGRAM After School
When the Princeton School District reached out to the YWCA to take over their afterschool program, we promptly embraced the opportunity. This year, over 300 students participated in our after school programs across 4 locations. During this period, students engaged in various educational and recreational activities designed to enhance their learning experiences outside of school hours.
PROGRAM Pre-Kindergarten
The Universal Pre-K program is a partnership with the Princeton School District and served 45 students, ages 3 and 4, across 3 classrooms this year in our building. This early childhood education initiative provides a structured learning environment that supports the developmental needs of young learners. The program is designed to foster social, emotional, and cognitive growth, laying a strong foundation for future academic success.
PROGRAM Summer Enrichment
The Summer Enrichment program engaged 231 students through a variety of activities, including Robotics and EXPRESS YOURSELF Through Art, Music & Dance. These programs offered students the opportunity to explore their creativity and develop technical skills in a supportive and dynamic environment. The combination of arts and STEM activities ensured a well-rounded experience, fostering both innovation and self-expression.
EnglishasASecondLanguage
AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Our English as a Second Language (ESL) had a dynamic and engaging year, marked by a variety of impactful events and activities. Fall and Spring Orientations at YW provided vital opportunities for new students to integrate and learn about available resources. Our commitment to community engagement is further reflected in our students and ESL staff attending library events, and our Director speaking to a class of Princeton University students in the Spring. Because of this program, 74 of 111 students were able to reach the next level of proficiency in 2024.
The year was also highlighted by vibrant Art showcases at YW in both Fall and Spring, fostering creativity and community spirit. Our ESL teachers, volunteers, and staff engaged in various professional development trainings, both in-house and at Mercer County Community College, to stay current with educational best practices. These events not only supported our students’ educational journeys but also strengthened our connection with the broader community. As we welcome both new and returning students, we look forward to continuing these impactful initiatives and fostering growth in the coming year.
This year, our Workforce Development program has made remarkable strides, providing valuable support and opportunities as individuals advance their careers and shape their professional futures. We had 67 community members join our workforce development program. Of these, 53 completed their courses and graduated, while 14 are continuing their education this year. Additionally, we launched a pilot program for an early childhood education certificate and 3 of our graduates are now employed as childcare assistant teachers with us at the Burke Foundation Early Childhood Education Center.
Students and staff participated in Career Day at Mercer County Community College, giving them the opportunities to make connections and find sustainable employment. Additionally, our students took part in ProCES (Program for Community Engagement Scholarship) at Princeton University, a program dedicated to advancing academic courses and research collaborations that align with Princeton's mission to contribute positively to humanity through education and innovation. ProCES facilitated a semester-long tutoring program this past spring, where Princeton students served as tutors for our students. This collaboration provided valuable academic support and mentorship throughout the term.
& FRIENDS Newcomers
The Newcomers and Friends at YWCA Princeton celebrated their 65th anniversary, continuing the tradition established by women in 1959 to foster connections and build a strong community. During the 2023-2024 year, the club was 234 members strong, 47 being new members. We offered 39 interest groups for our members, including activities such as walking, hiking, kayaking, biking, attending Broadway plays and local performances. We also held three book groups, organized evenings dining out, explored the local areas, and conducted educational meetings on foreign policy, among others.
Each year, our members participate in our Holiday Gift Giving initiative to provide presents to children at the Burke Foundation Early Childhood Center. Last December, our members donated $2,625 and gathered gifts for 100 children. Any leftover funds were given to teachers to improve their classrooms.
In June, a garden in memory of one of our members, Jennifer Alley, was dedicated. Jennifer wanted to plant flowers at the YWCA as a volunteer project, so it was only fitting for our club to do so on the YWCA Princeton’s front lawn.
BRAMWELL Farewell to
For decades, Bramwell House has stood as a cherished landmark in Princeton's history. The iconic red building on Route 206 housed our Breast Cancer Resource Center, English as a Second Language classes, and served as the main meeting space for the Newcomers & Friends. As the need for our services grew, we recognized that Bramwell House was no longer suiting our needs, prompting us to reimagine how best to serve our community.
In December 2023, Bramwell House was demolished, marking the end of an era and the start of an exciting new chapter for YWCA Princeton, paving the way for growth and new opportunities in our community. Our new program building will be a symbol of this transformation, designed to meet the evolving needs of our community while staying true to our mission.
A memorial garden was set up for Newcomer Jennifer Alley, who passed away earlier this year.
Capital Campaign
TRANSFORMING TOMORROW TOGETHER
Creating a building for the future is no easy task. As the Princeton area grows and transforms, we must meet the times. Our new program building will feature a spacious community center, flexible classrooms for various programs and versatile spaces including a commercial kitchen, to meet diverse community needs. This modern facility will serve as a hub for connection, learning, and empowerment, underscoring our commitment to long-term community growth and success. This blend of learning and community spaces will enhance our offerings and better serve our participants.
This facility will be the new home of our Breast Cancer Resource Center (BCRC), offering a modern, clean environment for survivors and thrivers. Our goal is to offer a private entrance to reduce germ exposure for women in or finishing treatment, creating a safer, more comfortable space that enhances our services and fosters a supportive, healing environment.
Additionally, it will house our ESL program and offer flexible classrooms to be used to continue to deliver our essential language and workforce development programs.
We also hope to feature a green roof, a key element of our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. This green roof would not only provide natural insulation and reduce energy consumption but also enhance storm water management by absorbing rainwater and reducing runoff. By integrating this eco-friendly feature, we aim to set a standard for responsible development and inspire our community to embrace sustainable practices.
We look forward to embracing the changes ahead and continuing our mission with renewed energy and vision! If you would like more information or support our efforts to create our new program building, please visit our website or email Development@YWCAPrinceton.org. Your involvement and support are crucial as we embark on this exciting new chapter.
EVENTS Milestone
Beyond Pink
On Friday, October 20, 2023, we celebrated the 6th annual Beyond Pink Art Show with a gallery opening night at Princeton MarketFair. This unique pop-up event featured artwork from breast cancer patients and survivors, highlighting their journeys and celebrating their resilience.
This event plays a crucial role in supporting our efforts to provide essential non-clinical services to women and families facing a breast cancer diagnosis, as well as in our educational outreach on breast health. Huge shout out to our artists, attendees and sponsors for making this event a tremendous success. Tickets will be on sale soon for Beyond Pink on Thursday, October 24, 2024. Stay tuned!
Firecracker 5K
This year, we celebrated the 20th Anniversary of our Firecracker 5K Run/Walk, held on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at ETS. The proceeds from this event supported the Pearl Bates Scholarship Fund, which helps children and families access childcare and summer programs at The Burke Foundation Early Childhood Center at YWCA Princeton.
Despite the sweltering heat, hundreds of participants completed the 5K trail through the scenic ETS campus. Younger children also enjoyed a 50-yard dash and various yard games. The event was a lively start to summer, featuring a DJ and food trucks. Thank you to ETS for hosting and to all who sponsored or participated in this fantastic annual event. Stay tuned for details on our next Firecracker 5K, coming in early June 2025.
Photo by Bonnye Randolph
Photo by Photography by Fabienne
EVENTS, CON’T. Milestone
Photo by Mallory Helmes
Handbag Bingo
On Friday, June 7, 2024, YWCA Princeton hosted its inaugural Handbag Bingo at the West Trenton Firehouse Ballroom. The event featured exciting bingo games with genuine handbags as prizes, along with raffles, door prizes, and more.
Handbag Bingo was a resounding success, attracting nearly 350 attendees and raising essential funds for YWCA Princeton. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, donated prizes, or sponsored this enjoyable event. Mark your calendars for our next Handbag Bingo on Friday, January 24, 2025!
Tribute to Women
On Friday, March 1, 2024, YWCA Princeton kicked off National Women’s History Month with our 40th annual Tribute to Women, held at the Princeton Marriott at Forrestal. Since 1984, this event has celebrated exceptional individuals who are driving social change in our communities.
In this milestone year, we honored four remarkable women who embody our mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. These outstanding leaders are making a significant impact in Mercer County, and we were honored to recognize their contributions. This year’s honorees were:
Isabelle Lambotte, President, and Co-Founder of Share My Meals
Kim McNear, Executive Director of Anchor House
Elizabeth Koehler, Managing Director at BlackRock
Lisa Skeete Tatum, Founder and CEO of Landit
We offer our profound gratitude to the hundreds who attended to celebrate these exceptional women. Special thanks to all our sponsors and supporters for making the event memorable. Save the date for our next Tribute to Women on Thursday, March 27, 2025. More details will be available soon!
and Mallory Helmes
Photo by Photography by Fabienne
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thank you for taking the time to review our impact report. We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the individuals listed below for their invaluable contributions and support:
Our 2023-2024 Board of Trustees
Nikki Jones - President & Treasurer
Laila Wilson-McCoy - Vice President
Verlina Reynolds-Jackson - Secretary
Cameshia Caldwell
Geeta Chopra
Elisabeta Dinca
Reina Fleury
Erin Klebaur
Melanie Lowe Hoffman
Kendra Lee
Dariel Marius
Altagracia Montilla
Sheila Nall
Tara Oakman
Leena Shah
Ermine Smith
Our incredible staff for their tireless dedication
Our amazing donors for their ongoing support of our diverse programs
Our outstanding community partners, whose collaboration is crucial to the support we deliver to Central New Jersey
YWCA Princeton
59 Paul Robeson Place, Princeton, NJ 08540 609-497-2100 www.YWCAPrinceton.org Development@YWCAPrinceton.org