A Century of Strong Women in Green Bay

On May 1st, 1919, a meeting was held to organize a YWCA chapter in Green Bay. The goal was to provide young women with an appropriate place to meet, rest during their noon hour, and buy lunch at a moderate price. Under the leadership of Miss Euphemia Jane Kay, the first president, YWCA Greater Green Bay began operations at the corner of Cherry and Adams streets in downtown Green Bay. Within the first year, 1,500 women had joined. Community leaders pledged $13,963, and national YWCA affiliation was won.

Since 1919, YWCA Greater Green Bay has worked tirelessly to meet the changing needs of women and girls in the community. The YWCA Greater Green Bay has been a pioneer in creating opportunities for empowering women and eliminating racism throughout the ages. For a century, we have provided services and programming that have adapted to meet the needs of each generation.

1920’s: Luncheon spot, job preparation classes, assistance for working women to find safe boarding houses

1940’s: Crisis intervention and programs to war brides

1960’s: Girl Reserves

1980’s: Licensed childcare

1990’s: Cancer support, teen parenting, and economic self-sufficiency

2000’s: Women’s empowerment and diversity programs

YWCA Greater Green Bay embraces our mission of eliminating racism and empowering women. We will continue to provide relevant programming that speaks to our mission every day. While the issues facing women have changed over time, our commitment to tackling these issues has remained steadfast.

We are proud to celebrate 100 years of championing our philosophy of embracing diversity and changing the lives of women. Today, the YWCA remains at the forefront of women’s issues, providing programs and services that fulfill its vision of empowering women and children while providing an environment of racial and cultural acceptance for all.

Learn more about YWCA USA’s history.