CHARLOTTE, N.C. – As we celebrate Women’s History Month, Spectrum News 1 is highlighting one of the oldest and largest women’s organizations in the nation.

The YWCA is a nonprofit that serves over 2 million women, girls and families nationwide. Its Central Carolinas chapter began operating in Charlotte in 1902.

What You Need To Know

  • YWCA Central Carolinas has been serving women and families since 1902

  • The nonprofit offers affordable housing, advocacy, fitness centers and educational programming

  • YWCA Central Carolinas 2022 We Believe fundraiser runs through March 24

Kirsten Sikkelee, CEO of YWCA Central Carolinas, says the organization’s mission is to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all people.

They offer transitional housing, co-ed fitness centers, education programming and more.

“We have a variety of different programming here. Racial justice programming finds its way through forums, and advocacy and book club discussions,” Sikkelee said. “We have two different transitional housing programs here.”

In addition to their co-ed fitness centers, there are also learning centers in eight locations throughout Charlotte, Monroe and Union counties. They serve elementary-aged girls and boys with a focus on literacy.

Coming up this summer, Sikkelee says they’re planning on breaking ground on another affordable housing facility on Park Road. It will include 104 units for women and families in need.

YWCA Central Carolina’s 2022 We Believe fundraising event is going on until March 24. It raises money to support the organization’s programming. 

“You really can't empower women without eliminating racism and vice versa,” Sikkelee said. “It's an opportunity for the community to give directly to YWCA to support all those programs that we talked about.”