• Unsung Heroine Award
  (February, annually)


• Women of Achievement Award
  (March, annually)


• REACH Award
  (March, annually)


• Annual Meeting
  (May, annually)


• Week Without Violence
  (October, annually)


• Clothesline Project
  (October, annually)

Unsung Heroine Award

During Black History Month, the YWCA of Schenectady celebrates the accomplishments and spirit of African - American women in Schenectady who have given their time, talent and resources to benefit others.

The YWCA of Schenectady has a longstanding history of community activism. The mission of the YWCA of Schenectady includes a commitment to work toward the elimination of racism. Black History Month is a time to reflect on the many contributions of African Americans and the efforts of women. Unsung Heroines work year after year to improve neighborhood conditions, protect the human and civil rights of others, provide sanctuary for children, provide food for the hungry, befriend the friendless and provide representation and voice to the disenfranchised. Unsung Heroines live with us and next to us. They are vigilant, fearless and tireless. They inspire, motivate, challenge us and hold us to higher standards. Their activism demonstrates how to be each other's keepers. They are the cement in building a "Beloved Community". The celebration is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided.

Woman of Achievement Award

Overview: (pdf)
Nomination Form: (pdf)

Honor and appreciate Capital District women who “stand above the crowd” as leaders and/ or activist to bring about equality for women and other minorities. The extraordinary nominees are role models and peers. Some of the areas most accomplished and respected women are members of this longstanding Academy of Women of Achievement. It is an open and competitive nomination process. Nominations for 2008 are due January 17, 2008. This year, the extravagant award ceremony will be held at Glen Sanders Mansion, Scotia on March 27th. Corporate sponsorship opportunities available.

REACH Award

Overview: (pdf)
Nomination Form: (pdf)

Every company has at least one woman who goes above and beyond the call of duty every day. She is a friend, role model and motivator. Recognize and reward the effort of your company’s most outstanding female employees with the REACH Award. It is an open and non-competitive process. Nominations for 2008 are due February 15. This year, the award ceremony will be held at Glen Sanders Mansion, Scotia on March 27th.

The 2008 REACH Recipients

Annual Meeting

The YWCA will host the 120th Annual Meeting on May 28th at Glen Sanders Mansion (7:30 – 9:00 am). The prestigious Katherine S. Rozendaal Award will be presented, which honors a person whose volunteer leadership and activities have had a positive impact on the Schenectady Community. The YW will also recognize the Board of Directors, Volunteers of the Year and Community Collaborators.

Tickets are available for $25, which includes breakfast.

Week Without Violence

The YWCA's Week Without Violence Campaign is a part of the association's international initiative to challenge every person and organization to PLEDGE to live for seven days without perpetrating, observing or investing in racism, hate and violence.

Violence plagues our homes, workplaces, schools and streets. Around the country and around the world the "search for peace" is one of the highest priorities. Special efforts are made to attract youth participation. Young children are encouraged to participate in the chalk walk, older children are encouraged to participate in a youth challenge which allowed for artistic representations, community service and other forms of active engagement in the efforts to decrease violence in our community. Local leaders, organizations, businesses and residents supported the efforts and participated in the various programs and events.

The Clothesline Project

This is a graphic representation of human experience and pain. The clothesline is draped with t-shirts telling the tales of loss, fear, anger and pain at the loss of a loved one to violence and the experience of domestic violence. The displayed can be viewed at the YWCA during National Domestic Violence Week in October. Purple ribbons are distributed in recognition of the thousands of women who are victimized each year and to salute the survivors.Stop by the YW’s Main Building at 44 Washington to review this exhibit.