The YWCA (Young Women's Christian Association) is a non-profit organization, the first of which was founded in the UK in 1855. Local and national associations are located worldwide, each with differing aims and methods, but all providing programs for women based on the perceived need in their communities. The umbrella organization for the national associations is the World YWCA, based in Geneva, Switzerland.

In the United Kingdom, the name has been truncated to YWCA England & Wales as Christianity no longer plays an integral part in the organisation. YWCA England & Wales concentrates on informal education (youth work), information and signposting for young women growing up in disadvantaged areas. It also campaigns on issues that affect young women. YWCA's most recent campaign was called Respect young mums, and was about getting better support for teenage mums.

The original Christian focus is still very strong in many of the national movements, both in Europe and the rest of the world, but some have changed their focus to social activities and gender-related topics only.

While the YWCA remains independent of the YMCA, some programs they provide are similar, such as child care, health & wellness, and employment training. In response, many local YMCA and YWCA associations have amalgamated into YM/YWCAs or YMCA-YWCAs, and belong to both organizations while providing the programs of each.

The YWCA USA is an organizational member of the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, which advocates gun control.

See also

• YMCA
• Jewish Community Center
• 92nd Street Y

External links

• World Young Women's Christian Association
• YWCA England & Wales
• YWCA of Hong Kong
• YWCA USA
• YWCA Canada

Non-aligned Scouting organizations

YWCA | YWCA | Young Women's Christian Association | キリスト教女子青年会 | YWCA | YWCA