Lifestyle: Why I Support the YW - Worcester Mag

The YWCA of Central Massachusetts is an astonishing force of an institution. I find its dedication to eliminating racism and empowering women to be, frankly, exceptional. Here’s why.

Building Women

The “YW” isn’t just undergoing a $24 million renovation. It isn't just gunning for a more modern and welcoming facility. It isn't just meeting current safety, comfort and accessibility requirements to provide more efficient services and increase the number of rooms for transitional housing. In addition to all of these noble ambitions, the YWCA is employing an all-female-led construction team, as outlined in a community benefit agreement — the first of its kind.

Despite the fact that the number of women working in construction trades is the highest it has been in two decades, the Institute for Women’s Policy Research reported that women still accounted for fewer than one in 20 workers in 2018. In addition, the median income for women in the construction occupation remained $49 less per week than the median income for men. Consigli Construction is the official contractor for YWCA’s all-female-led project, which is changing the face of the industry.

Effective Leadership

Executive Director Linda Cavaioli has been at the helm of the YWCA of Central Massachusetts since 1992 and she’s never been afraid to ask difficult questions. In her role, she has always strived to provide equal access to health and wellness for all people.

I sat down with Cavaioli nearly a year ago to discuss the YWCA’s capital campaign on an episode of the Pop It podcast, which I co-host with Molly O’Connor. During the interview, Cavaioli proudly described herself as “strident and loud,” saying, “I do my homework and I always make sure I’m prepared.” Cavaioli recognized her role as a thought leader in the community, but it was clear that she does more than just think — she stands behind her words and takes action.

“We try to figure out the barriers for people and create a bridge,” she told us, adding, "If we don’t do it, who will?”

Cavaioli is known for asking probing questions in a manner that is both respectful and effective. The YWCA’s dedicated staff follows her fearless lead and as a result, they boast some impressive stats:

85% of YWCA’s graduating preschoolers are kindergarten-ready.

100% of YWCA’s middle school girls avoid risky behaviors and are on track to achieve positive outcomes.

100% of YWCA’s high school girls go onto college.

98% of domestic violence victims feel safer as a result of the YWCA.

Astute Art and Media

It can be difficult for a 135-year-old organization to make an authentic imprint on social media, and yet the YWCA has managed to build its own powerful online brand. A stream of black and white graphics posted by @ywcacentralmass on Instagram includes quotes from feminist icons like Ruth Bader Ginsburg, reminds followers to be themselves, and encourages women to empower one another daily.

Driving by 1 Salem St. also conveys a visual sense of the YWCA’s commitment to peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. The building's exterior is the striking canvas for two strong female artists, Alice Mizrachi and Sydney James. In addition, passersby admire the massive portraits of two Worcester women painted by South Pacific artist, ASKEW.

At the Golden Globes, actress Michelle Williams reminded women to vote in our own self-interest: "It's what men have been doing for years," she said. For me, a contribution to the YWCA is exactly that. Every dollar I donate is a vote for women’s and civil rights, and an investment in Worcester’s future female leaders.

You can learn more about the YWCA’s #forher campaign at www.ywcacm.org.