YWCA is On a Mission to End Gender Violence
While many were quarantined safe in their homes, YWCA York didn’t have the option to quit fighting during the nationwide shutdown, as family and community stressors resulting from the pandemic escalated violence and inhibited access to safety and services. The YWCA York, being York County’s sole provider of free, comprehensive services to victims of violence, including domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking, continued to provide emergency shelter in York and Hanover.
In fact, the need for services has continued to increase as the county reopens. YWCA’s holistic approach encompasses not only emergency and transitional residential services, but also legal advocacy and representation, medical advocacy, counseling, and prevention education. Though much of their work is with women and girls, they are gender inclusive.
“COVID-19 seemed to put the world at a standstill, but our work has continued. Domestic violence and sexual assault doesn’t stop for a global pandemic, and neither has the dedication to our clients,” says Tallie VanVuren, Staff Attorney of YWCA York.
YWCA also serves the York community at large. They bring presentations to healthcare providers, schools, law enforcement, government agencies, nonprofits, and faithbased communities. Their evidenced-based programs include trainings delivered to staff in restaurants and bars, teaching how to interrupt and prevent sexual aggression that may occur in their establishments, as alcohol is a factor in approximately 50% of sexual violence incidents.
CGA is not only the law firm for YWCA York, but they provide endless support for the organization’s mission, from firm sponsorship of all major fundraisers to board, committee, and volunteer service. Attorney Hunter Schenck is a member of the Junior Board and helps create a CGA team to Walk A Mile In Her Shoes, raising money to end domestic violence. For several years, she also provided the CGA building and volunteers for the Adopt-A-Family campaign.
Attorney Mieke Driscoll, past YWCA Board President says, “CGA supports the YWCA because we share a deep passion for supporting women’s rights and civil rights.”
YRK Perspectives
How do you feel supported by the York community this year?
“YWCA York appreciates all of our partners who are dedicated to creating a culture of empowerment and directly addressing these issues in our community.”
— Jean Treuthart, YWCA York, CEO
- 135 N. GEORGE ST. YORK, PA 17401
- 717.848.4900