MC Gives: Empower YWCA-MC to Make an Impact
YWCA Monterey County is dedicated to empowering women, eliminating racism, and promoting peace, justice, and dignity for all. YWCA-MC is a force for positive change in the community. Through our wide range of programs and services, we provide essential support to those escaping domestic violence and human trafficking. From offering safe housing, and mental health to advocating for equality, YWCA-MC is creating a more compassionate Monterey County.
Through the MC Gives campaign, community members have the opportunity to contribute and make a difference. MC Gives will give a percentage match for all donations. By donating to YWCA-MC through the Monterey County Gives fundraiser, you can help us continue our important work and empower even more individuals to escape desperate situations. When you invest in the YWCA-MC through MC Gives you are not only supporting the immediate needs of women and families escaping violence but also working towards long-term solutions.
Ways to support YWCA-MC through MC Gives
When it comes to supporting YWCA-MC through the MC Gives campaign, there are several meaningful ways to get involved. One of the best ways is by making a financial donation. Now through December 31st, your gift to YWCA-MC will be increased by a percentage match thanks to a collaboration between the Community Foundation for Monterey County, the Monterey Peninsula Foundation and the Monterey County Weekly. By Clicking on the Donate Button, you will be directed to Monterey County Gives! webpage where you may safely make a charitable donation directly to YWCA-Monterey County. Your contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in the lives of those we serve. Whether it’s providing safe housing to survivors of domestic violence or offering therapy services to individuals in need, every dollar helps us continue our vital work.
Another way to donate!
If you are 70 1/2 or older, you can make a gift from 
your IRA account up to $100,000 per year. It qualifies toward your required minimum distribution (RMD) which can lower your income and taxes. If you are married and file jointly, your spouse can also make a gift of up to $100,000 from his or her IRA. Contact the Community Foundation for Monterey County at 831.375.9712 for instructions or to learn more.
Share our message on social media as this is a powerful tool to bring awareness to this fundraiser.
How MC Gives Empowers YWCA-MC
MC Gives is a powerful philanthropic effort that empowers YWCA-MC to continue our essential work. This annual campaign not only raises funds for our organization but also amplifies our message and connects us with individuals who may need our services. Through Monterey County Gives, we have the opportunity to continue providing support to those experiencing violence in the home. The Monterey County Gives campaign provides a sense of community and collaboration, as individuals and businesses come together to support the causes they believe in.
The funds raised through Monterey County Gives allow us to expand our programs, improve our facilities, and continue to bring awareness. By investing in YWCA-MC, you are investing in the resilience and empowerment of individuals and families in our community. Together, we can create a brighter and more equitable future for all.
Success Stories of our Programs and Services
At YWCA-MC, our programs and services have had a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals in the Monterey County community. One of our most impactful programs is our safe housing for survivors of domestic violence. Through our shelters and transitional housing programs, we have provided a safe haven for victims escaping abusive situations. Our holistic approach ensures that survivors not only have a safe place to stay but also receive the necessary support. By providing therapy, and resources we help them rebuild their lives. Countless survivors have found solace and regained their independence through our safe shelter program.
Emergency shelter, housing assistance, and 24/7 crisis line
As a DV services provider, we know first-hand that housing options are a major challenge. Our clients are often classified as homeless or unsheltered when they come to us, and we offer a confidential emergency shelter and transitional housing that can lead to more permanent housing opportunities. In 2022, we helped 103 individuals/families with housing needs, and received 2,675 calls for DV services, and 91 calls for housing assistance. At YWCA MC, we believe that secure and sustainable housing is a necessity, not a luxury.
Food Bank
We provide food assistance to up to 70 families every two weeks, with no questions asked. Many of the people we serve are undocumented and fear engaging with officialdom. We are considered a safe alternative for these families in need. Our efforts have made a significant impact on the community, ensuring that children do not go to bed hungry and are better able to engage with school helping them towards a brighter future.
Specialized mental health services for children
We offer specialized therapy for children and youth who have experienced trauma, using age-appropriate techniques and evidence-based methods. Our tailored plans focus on boosting self-esteem, reducing anxiety, and teaching healthy coping skills. Our services are available in both English and Spanish, in-person or via Telehealth, and are often free or on a sliding scale based on income. We also offer therapy for crime victims and psychoeducational groups for domestic violence victims and offenders. In 2022, we provided 1,352 therapeutic sessions and assisted 44 children and 182 adults.
Community Outreach and education
At YWCA MC, community groups, including the County, turn to us for education on preventing domestic violence and for educating other service providers. As leaders within the Domestic Violence Coordinating Council, we embarked on a yearlong project to gather together all those who work to support DV victims and compile a Service Manual with descriptors and contacts for over 45 groups. Our efforts have made a significant impact, providing recognition for all those who deliver crucial work and a one-stop reference for providers. We also delivered 46 sessions of Safe Dates and Dating Matters to Middle and High School students in the area. Both curriculums address DV and provide youth with tools to identify and prevent abuse.
The Future and our Goals
YWCA-MC has set ambitious goals to expand our impact and reach. We envision a Monterey County where all individuals have access to safe housing, prevention education, and support services.
Children are also victims of domestic violence, whether they witness it or not. Our main goal is to ensure that children receive services that keep them safe and help them recover. Fewer adverse childhood experiences can reduce the likelihood of mental health problems or drug and alcohol abuse in adulthood.
We recognize that those we serve face unique challenges and barriers, and it is our mission to bridge the gaps. By collaborating with community partners and implementing targeted programs, we want to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances, have access to the resources they need to thrive.
By addressing the root causes of violence, poverty, and inequality, we can create a more sustainable and just society. Through educational campaigns and community initiatives, we aim to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to break free from cycles of violence and discrimination.
Our long-term goal is to be able to secure more step-down housing facilities and provide our services beyond Monterey County.
Can you help us reach our goals?
