annual report 2014

The YWCA of the Greater Capital Region, Inc. is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

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Dear Friends,

I hope this letter finds you warm and in the best spirits. It is such a pleasure to write my 2nd Annual Report “Dear Friends” letter. I am honored and proud to showcase our purposeful and meaningful programs and services’ outcomes and impacts highlighted within our YWCA-GCR 2014 Annual Report. Without the endorsement of our new and continued supporters, funders, granters, volunteers, partners, staff, members, elected officials, Board of Directors, Godmothers, etc., the YWCA-GCR would not be able to affect change in the more than 1000 women, children and men we serve annually. I cannot say thank you and express my deepest gratitude enough. My heart is consistently warmed by your support, generosity and contribution. Thank you for all that you’ve done and continue to do; you make a great difference!

For more than 131 years, the YWCA-GCR has provided safe, affordable and supportive housing to women. Today, we are one of the area’s largest supportive housing providers for homeless single women and homeless women and their children. On any given day, the YWCA-GCR provides permanent and transitional housing to 104 women and over 40 children. Some women stay for a short period of time while others have called the YWCA-GCR home for over 25 years.

In 2014, the YWCA-GCR took big, strong, innovative, courageous and strategic strides to sustain, enhance and expand our unique cutting edge services. The YWCA-GCR debuted the “Victorian Tea in Troy” fundraiser which raised more than $12,000. We secured a highly competitive Economic Empowerment grant through the YWCA-USA Fund Development Department. Our 2014 Resourceful Women’s Luncheon was the most successful event yet bringing in nearly $30,000. The YWCA-GCR has made a great impact in the community addressing homelessness through our Solutions To End Homelessness Program (STEHP). Since 2013, we have prevented 67 households and 85 children from becoming homeless in Rensselaer County. I am proud to announce that the YWCA-GCR was able to secure more than three times our previous funding annually over the course of 5 years. This increase will allow us to make a substantial impact in our community over the next 5 years.

One of the most memorable and inspirational moments at the YWCA-GCR in 2014 was honoring our former Board President; Corey Jamison and Executive Director; Sherry Rounds at the April 11, 2014 “Ready For Work graduation and Renaming Ceremony”. Through Corey and Sherry’s unique and courageous leadership approach, and love of the YWCA-GCR, they secured a generous donation and matching pledge from an anonymous donor. This donation and matching pledge could mean more than a quarter of a million dollars for the YWCA-GCR by 2017. For every $10,000 of public support the YWCA-GCR raises/receives, the donor will match the donation 1 to 4. Additionally, in Corey and Sherry’s honor, our Ready For...Work, School programs and Technology Center were renamed the Jamison-Rounds Ready For… Programs and Technology Center. Their legacy (HER-Legacies) will live on for years to come.

The YWCA-GCR will continue to make an impact on the lives we touch and will commit to sustaining, enhancing and expanding our unique services as they are empowering; life changing. The resilient, courageous and inspiring women presented in the Annual Report will share their stories and the impact the YWCA-GCR services and programs has had on them. I have much admiration for their courage to share their stories, for making the initial step to make a difference in their lives, for their trust in the YWCA-GCR to provide them with 360° of Support, and for them knowing that their success is attributed to their commitment in themselves.

Without a supportive, dedicated and strong and united Board of Directors and compassionate, devoted and empowering staff; we could not be as successful as we are. Please share in a round of applause and thank you to the YWCA-GCR board and staff. In 2015, the YWCA-GCR will be sharing our 3-5 year Strategic Plan, as we have great plans to continue our legacy; creating self-staining programs and making an even bigger impact in our community and in the lives we touch.

Please take a moment to read through our Annual Report to learn more about our 2014 achievements, program highlights, success stories and more.

Warmest Regards,

Daquetta P. Jones, BS, MHSA Executive Director

Be Empowered, Empower Others and Always Smile :)

Do all the good you can. By all the means you can. In all the ways you can. In all the places you can. At all the times you can. To all the people you can. As long as ever you can.~ Unknown

Daquetta JonesExecutive Director

a letter from the executive director

Daquetta P. JonesExecutive Director

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LISA LAGON President Jaeger & Flynn Associates, Inc.

DAVIA COLLINGTON Vice President Rensselaer County Mental Health

ywca-gcr board of directors

MARRI AVIZA Rumors Salon and Spa

CORINNE CAREY New York Civil Liberties Union

ANNE COONRAD Unified Court System

MEGHAN KEENHOLTS, ESQ. E. Stewart Jones, PLLC

MONICA KURZEJESKI City of Troy

LISA ROBERT LEWIS The Troy Record

THERESA MOROUKIAN Mosaic Associates Architects

COLEEN PARATORE Author

LORI V. QUIGLEY, PhD. The Sage Colleges

ELIZABETH SULLIVAN Jaeger & Flynn

BENITA ZAHN WNYT News Channel 13

WANDA ZYGMUNTOWICZ Treasurer CUSTOMERicity, LLC

HONORABLE ELIZABETH WALSH Secretary Rensselaer County Family Court Judge

ywca-gcr staff

DAQUETTA JONES Executive Director

BONNIE BENSON Director of Housing & Supportive Programs

VIRGINIA MARINELLO Director of Finance

MALISSA PILETTE-MCCLENON Director of Development and Marketing

ELLEN RANDOLPH Director of Operations

STARLETTA SMITH Director of Transitional Housing & Family Services

GAIL BATCHELDER Front Desk Receptionist

SHARA BRANON-BENDER Homeless Prevention Coordinator

RANDY BURNS Director of Maintenance

ROBERTA FARRELL Front Desk Receptionist

EJAH GAY Front Desk Receptionist

ELIZABETH HALLER Finance Assistant

WILHEMINA HICKS Employment Training Instructor

LISA HOTTE Women In Transition Peer Advocate

ANITA KENNER Front Desk Receptionist

CAROLYN KING Housing Coordinator

BOB LEIBACH Food Service Coordinator

BESSIE MABEE Front Desk Receptionist

PRISCILLA MILLIGAN Housekeeper

MARY MILONE Housekeeper

DEBRA MYERS Supervisor of Housekeeping

JOAN NIMER Front Desk Receptionist

GABRIELLE POLAK Housing Coordinator

SUE STIERER Apartment Program Coordinator

JESSICA TREMPER Front Desk Receptionist

JACKIE WEAVER Housing & Supportive Programs Administrator

2014 supportive services

MY SISTER’S CLOSET provides free next to new professional clothing for job interviews, new jobs and professional appointments as well as casual clothing for our residents and women from the community. A total of 439 clothing packages were distributed in 2014.

FITNESS CENTER provides exercise equipment, as well as assistance to women seeking to reach fitness goals. Women have found stress relief, improved cardiovascular performance, weight loss and increased self-esteem as a result of using the fitness center. It was utilized approximately 560 times in 2014.

COMMUNITY MEAL is a free weekly meal, open to the public, where staff assist residents with menu planning, shopping, and cooking, allowing them to enhance budgeting and basic life skills. Community members, staff, and college students also participate in meal preparation, serving, and clean-up. Meals often include speakers and outreach coordinators from outside agencies on topics such as education, wellness, health insurance, preventative services, and more. A total of 2,932 meals were served during 2014.

FOOD PANTRY provides a three day (nine meal) emergency food package for both YWCA-GCR and Rensselaer County residents. The food pantry is open Mondays (2:00 - 4:00 p.m.) and Tuesdays - Thursdays (1:00 - 4:00 p.m.) During 2014, 22,743 meals were provided.

SALLY CATLIN RESOURCE CENTER (SCRC) is open during regular business hours and some evening hours, to our residents as well as members of the community, including men. There are 4 computers that may be utilized for everything from goals orientated to recreational such as job and apartment searching to sending and receiving e-mail, checking Facebook as means of staying in contact with family and friends. There is a lounge area where residents may sit with visitors. There is also a variety of local resources that are displayed on the bulletin board, in our cardholder and in files as well. We strive to be able to provide connection to any resources in the community that a resident or guest would need. Volunteer to “host” the SCRC to assist users with questions, signing in and out and keeping the area clean and quiet. The SCRC was utilized 5,010 times during 2014.

SOLUTIONS TO END HOMELESSNESS PROGRAM (STEHP) is a homeless prevention program that provides case management and financial assistance to community members who are facing eviction. Participants learn new: budgeting strategies, employment enhancement skills, resume/cover letter writing, and home organization techniques. STEHP encourages community resource connections regarding: subsidized housing, appropriate benefit and entitlement procurement, medical care, mental health care, substance abuse treatment, and health insurance. In 2014 the YWCA-GCR prevented 41 households and 54 children from becoming homeless.

COMMUNITY PHONE provides free phone access for residents and guests making professional phone calls pertaining to housing, financial situations, employment/education, transportation, legal issues or healthcare.

JAMISON-ROUNDS READY FOR WORK TECHNOLOGY CENTER provides nine computers with internet access for Jamison-Rounds Ready for Work classes. They are available by appointment to residents and community members enrolled in online college courses, conducting research, performing job searches, looking for housing or practicing computer skills. In addition, our Jamison-Rounds Ready for School Program provides educational support and resources available for a full range of educational needs, including advocacy and assistance with student loan default. A total of 72 women utilized the Jamison-Rounds Technology Center approximately 1,020 times in 2014.

The population of the YWCA-GCR varies from year to year. Many women choose to reside at the YWCA-GCR while “getting back on their feet” while others choose to make the YWCA-GCR their permanent home. In 2014, 167 women and 80 children lived in YWCA-GCR on-site housing programs. The following are the demographics and characteristics of the women we served.

RACEAsian 1%African-American 39%White 52%Hispanic 14%Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander 1%Multi-racial 6%Native American 1%

AGE18-20 5%21-30 28%31-40 22%41-50 23%51-60 30%61-70 10%71-up 4%

CONDITIONSubstance Abuse 28%Domestic Violence 30%Mentally Ill & Chemically Addicted 19%Mental Health Diagnosis 47%Physical Disability 5%2 or more of the above conditions 54%Developmental Disabilities 5%

HIGHEST LEVEL OF EDUCATIONDid not complete high school 33%Did not complete junior high school 5%Completed GED 15%Graduated high school 38%No schooling completed 1%Secondary school 8%

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2014 supportive housing programs

SINGLE ROOM OCCUPANCY (SRO) Our 76 permanent safe and affordable SROs for homeless women meet the diverse needs of the residents at the YWCA-GCR. Communal living provides shared bathrooms, kitchens, and lounges. YWCA-GCR support staff are available to all residents around the clock for assistance at various levels. During 2014, 98 women resided in the YWCA-GCR SRO Program.

Length of stay for 2014:1-6 month stay 10%7-12 month stay 16%1-2 year stay 20% 2-5 year stay 30%5-10 year stay 16%10 years and up 8%Avg. Length of Stay 4 years

WOMEN IN TRANSITION (WIT) The WIT Program provides 14 rooms for homeless single women and homeless women and their children, and is designed to assist with multiple barriers to permanent housing: lack of employment, education, and life skills, mental illness, prior incarcerations, substance abuse, and domestic violence. The goal is to provide the skills and resources the women need in order to transition into permanent housing. Participants are required to set goals, complete household chores, work with at least two community service providers, and attend weekly WIT meetings. During 2014, 54 women and 46 children resided in the YWCA-GCR’s WIT Program.

FAMILY APARTMENT PROGRAM The YWCA-GCR provides 4 on-site 1-bedroom apartments for homeless women with children. The women who enter this program have a disability and are referred from the YWCA-GCR Women in Transition program. The apartments include a bedroom, small living/dining area, kitchenette and bathroom. Residents benefit from comprehensive case management and other supportive services provided by the YWCA-GCR. During 2014, 5 women and 7 children resided in the YWCA-GCR Family Apartment Program.

APARTMENT PROGRAM The YWCA-GCR provides 10 community apartments for homeless women with a disability and their children. Many of these women face multiple barriers to maintaining permanent housing. Often these women have not been connected to the services they require. Through case management and supportive services these women are empowered to gain the skills they need to maintain their housing. During 2014, 10 women and 26 children resided in the YWCA-GCR Community Apartment Program.

JAMISON-ROUNDS READY FOR WORK PROGRAM The 12-week Jamison-Rounds Ready for Work Employment Training Program provides women with job readiness training in the form of skill building workshops including on-site work experience at the YWCA-GCR Front Desk, Food Pantry, My Sister’s Closet, and the Sally Catlin Resource Center. In each session, 8-12 participants complete 20 weekly training hours. The JRRFW Program is held 3 times per year followed by a graduation at the end of each session.

The JRRFW Program collaborated with more than 30 providers in 2014. Some of the partners are Literary Volunteers of Rensselaer County, Capital Roots, CEO, Rensselaer County Department of Social Services -- just to name a few.

Participants also engage in workshops and trainings provided by YWCA-GCR partners and staff, and attending one-on-one case management sessions and group discussions and activities. In 2014, 23 women graduated from the Jamison-Rounds Ready for Work program. Of the 23 graduates, 73% went on to find gainful employment, enrolled in college classes, or GED/TASC prep classes.

3 graduating classes (April, July, and December)

In November 2013 we had 30 providers and in July 2014, there were 35.

Bryant & Stratton is one of our new providers. They provide workshops and $2000 scholarships for graduates that are ready to continue on to higher education. Additionally, Bryant & Stratton offers the Penn Foster High School Diploma.

Our graduates have found employment or educational success after graduation with some of the following organizations and companies: Bank of America, Dunkin Donuts, EOC, Joseph’s House Shelter, Independent Living Center, Mildred Elley, Sage Colleges, Wal-Mart, and the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region, Inc.

special thanks to:Mike Boettcher,

Desdelan PhotographyThe City of TroyThe Charles F. Lucas Confectionary &

Wine BarCollar City FitnessDavia CollingtonAnne CoonradThe Cookie FactoryTarasha Darden-McKoy,

Principle Owner Tarasha’s OriginalsThe Esteves School of Education at the

Sage CollegesHilton Garden Inn- TroyJK BloomDaquetta JonesMeghan KeenholtsMonica KurzejeskiLisa LagonLisa Robert LewisSue McLaneTheresa MoroukianM.O.S.S. BooksNaturally GrownColeen ParatoreMalissa Pilette-McClenonProctorsLori V. Quigley, PhDThe Recovery RoomRensselaer County Historical SocietyRumors Salon and SpaRussell Sage CollegeSodexoBeth SullivanSweet Sue’sTroy Farmer’s MarketTroy Music HallThe Troy RecordTruly RheHonorable Beth WalshYankee TrailsBenita Zahn

More than 100 people attended the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region, Inc.’s debut Victorian Tea fundraiser on Sunday, May 18, 2014 at Bush Memorial Hall on the Russell Sage Campus. It was a wonderful event full of fun, fancy hats, history, and of course tea. The event raised more than $12,000.

The Victorian Tea in Troy was a fun-filled day for the whole family, featuring a delicious English style tea with all of the fixings: tea sandwiches, scones, and desserts, all catered by Sweet Sue’s in Troy. Guests enjoyed a lively demonstration of the history of tea and Victorian rituals, customs, and etiquette from the Victorian Lady, Sue McLane, dressed in authentic Victorian clothing, followed by a historical trolley tour of downtown Troy with a tour guide from the Rensselaer County Historical Society. More than $1,500 worth of prizes were also given out during the afternoon for the three best fashionable hats and the lucky raffle contest winners.

“This fundraiser raised the awareness of YWCA-GCR’s mission, services, and therefore connected us to new supporters, which we greatly appreciate,” said Executive Director, Daquetta Jones. “My hope is that they remain lifelong supporters! Because of our supporters we successfully exceeded our fundraiser goal. We will utilize the raised funds by investing in our unique and cutting edge services to SEE that they Sustain, Enhance and Expand. This is what fundraising is about! It’s fun, educational, and an empowering experience where we develop new relationships; advertise the great support businesses and community partners provide through their participation, sponsorship, donations; bring awareness of community needs as well as our much needed services.”

Sponsors for the event included: Russell Sage College; Stewart’s Shops; E. Stewart Jones Law Firm, PLLC, Tri City Rentals; Jaeger & Flynn Associates, Inc.; Gramercy Communications; Nicoll & MacChesney Insurance; Mosaic Associates; Halliday Financial; Dwight Plumbing and Heating, Inc.; and The Kaleel Jamison Consulting Group.

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ywca-gcr victorian tea in troysunday, may 18, 2014

2014 finances

2014 funding sources

City of Troy Emergency Solutions Grant

Federal Emergency Management Agency

Hunger Prevention and Nutrition Assistance Program

US Department of Housing & Urban Development

New York State Office of Mental Health

New York State Office of Temporary Disability Assistance

United Way of the Greater Capital Region, Inc.

For the year ending December 31, 2014

REVENUEGovernment Funding & Grants*** $676,933Program Revenue 393,219Donations & Contributions*** 20,692Daycare Rental 67,167Memberships 1,585Fundraising*** 43,370Investment & Interest Income 17,840Other*** 17,714TOTAL $1,240,520

EXPENSES

Program Services $1,248,611Management & General 105,203Fundraising 13,819TOTAL $1,367,633

Increase (decrease) in net assets $ (127,113)

Net assets at January 1 $4,818,627

Net assets at December 31 $4,691,514

* This report is based on non-audited information** Expenses include $168,093 for Depreciation which is a non-monetary expense and gets added back into total assets at the end of the year***An anonymous donor has made a generous matching pledge to us. For 2014, 2015, and 2016, for every $10,000 of public support (includes private foundation grants) the YWCA-GCR raises, an additional $2,500 will be donated.

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$10,000 or moreAnonymousAnonymousRonald McDonald House Charitable

FoundationSesco, Inc.

$9,999 - $2,500Community Foundation of the Greater

Capital RegionGreater Capital Association of

RealtorsGroff Networks, LLCSEFCUSeymour Fox FoundationThe John D. Picotte Family

FoundationTroy Savings Bank Charitable

FoundationYWCA USA Fund Development

Department

$2,499 - $1,000Phyllis ConroyDon and Joan CsapossDwight Plumbing and Heating E. Stewart Jones Law FirmLinda G. Toohey Donor Advised FundProut PrintingSherry RoundsSaint-Gobain AbrasivesSt. John’s Episcopal ChurchStewart’s ShopsUnited Way of the Greater Capital

Region

$999 - $500Albany-Colonie Regional ChamberWallace and Jane AltesAmerican Heart AssociationAnonymousBouchey Financial Group, Ltd.Christ Church United MethodistEmma Willard SchoolFaith Lutheran ChurchFirst Niagara BankFusco Personnel Inc.Halliday FinancialChristy JohnstonKeyBankMosaic Associates Architects

2014 ywca-gcr donorsMVP Health CareNicoll and MacChesney NYSARC, Inc. Trust ServicesPioneer BankJean Poppei, PhDPrice Chopper/Golub FoundationStewart’s FoundationTeal, Becker and ChiaramonteThe Paul and Alane Hohenberg

Fund of The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region

Tri-City RentalsTroy Area MinistriesHonorable Beth Walsh

$499 - $250architecture +CDPHPCorey Jamison Consulting, LLCGodfrey Financial Associates, Inc.Gramercy CommunicationsBarry and Karen GreeneGTM Payroll ServicesHoosick Valley Contractors Inc.Integrated Management and Sales

ConsultingMeghan Keenholts, Esq.MicroKnowledgeNorthern Rivers Family ServicesMichele O’NealColeen ParatoreStacy Pomeroy DraperRatna RandiveMayor Lou RosamiliaRose and Kiernan, Inc.Siena CollegeSpiral DesignBeth SullivanTwelve Tones Acapella Group of

Emma Willard SchoolUpper Hudson Planned ParenthoodHonorable Christopher Maier and

Honorable Beth WalshWojeski and Co.

$249 - $100Mary AbbottDawn AbbuhlKelly AllardJames BarbaAbraham and Jean BolgatzBryant and Stratton CollegePatricia CarleyKaren Carlsen, Esq.Joyce Quaranta ChupkaVirginia CrottyDon CsapossRobert CurleyJohn DeCelleKatie DoranBruce and Sandra GardnerAndrea GoogasMarilyn GuynupChelly HeganDr. Kathryn HenningsonAlane HohenbergIn memory of Cuemi GibsonHonorable Kathleen JiminoTracy KennedyAmy KleinLisa LagonKathy LanniCarmelo LaquidaraLisa Robert LewisLori Schindler Realty Co.Maureen MaddenOvsanna MooradianDan and Vickki MoranTheresa MoroukianAnn NeilsonMartha Newcomb and John BerwickMartha NewcombSari O’ConnorNina PattisonPreservation League of

New York StateElissa ProutPyramid BrokerageLori V. Quigly, PhDRensselaer County District

Attorney’s OfficeRensselaer County Historical SocietyRensselaer County Regional

Chamber of CommerceRepeat Business SolutionsKen and Dorcas Rose

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Chrissy SarratoriLori SchindlerLori SeverinoSuzann SmartSt Peter’s Health PartnersNicole SteinStiletto SalonThe Country TrunkCongressman Paul TonkoPamela TraynorTroy Web ConsultingTruly RheMichael and Lynette TuckerValenti-Ture FamilyStefanie WileyMary Ann WillettsWanda Zygmuntowicz

$99 or lessCarolyn AbramsDiane AcostaAmbient Enviornmental, Inc.John AmbuhlAmerican Cancer SocietyAnonymous Judith Austin-RancourtVictoria BaeckerGail BatchelderShara BenderCouncilman Dean BodnarJean BolgatzEileen BondMary BrandDeborah BriggsBurke and Casserly, P.C.Honorable Ronald CanestrariClare Carroll Center for Disability ServicesSujata ChaudhryCheek by RezMatt ClarkeJoan CliffordAriana CollingtonCommercial Investigations, LLCCommission on Economic

OpportunitySasha ConleyErin ConlonDiane Conroy-LaCivitaAnne CoonradCouch White, LLPCrisafulli Bros.Joanne CurranLori DuBois

eba Dance TheatreSarah EganDonna EliaEmpowerment Zone Housing, LLCInna ErlikhJim FalascoRoberta FarrellMary Beth FinnertyFirst United Presbyterian ChurchTerry and Maryse FolmsbeeIlene FrankPatty FuscoDavia Gaddy-CollingtonCynthia GlynnNancy GonzalezPaula HaberlandVeneilya HardenFlorine HartJoan HefflerPaula HellerHilton Garden Inn - TrpuHIXNYMary HonsingerHVCC FoundationIn Honor of Cynthia WeberPatricia JacobsLinda JaffarianDr. Syb JenningsJordan and Savoy CPAsJunior AchievementJunior League of TroyJo Katz, Esq.Nancy KeenholtsJill KehnCynthia KellyCarolyn KingKathy KirschKathleen KirvinHonorable Lynn KopkaMonica KurzejeskiNancy LerenKathleen LissonWendy LopezKersten LorcherRev. Alexandra LusakJulianne MalinMarvin and Company, P.C.Marie MaxwellKatherine McCarthyBrandi MillerTerri-Ann MontanyeLaurynn MyersJennifer Nelson

New York Independent System Operator

Linda O’MalleyAnthony ParatoreAnn PascarellLauren PayneKaren PetersonDeane PfeilSusan PhillipsPierce CommunicationsGabby PolakRhe PotenzaKathy RavidaDonna RemDonna RichardsonSamaritan HospitalStewart Jones and Kimberly Sanger

JonesSensory SixIan SilvermanJudith SmithNurit SonnenscheinFay SpargoSue StiererMargaret StoryTimothy and Elizabeth TaylorThe Arts Center of the Capital RegionThe Bonadio GroupSteven ThorntonClaudette ThorntonTimes UnionMary Grace TompkinsAudrey ToussaintJanice TricaricoTroy Savings Bank Music HallUngerman ElectricVascular Birthmarks FoundationCatherine VolkNick WaerMartha WalshValerie WeaverJackie WeaverSamantha WeaverChyresse WellsWilson Elser Moskowitz

Edelman and Dicker LLPJolene WiltshireBarbara Wood

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In-KindCarolyn AbramsDiane AcostaArtcentric GalleryBarbara BaggottAshley Bell-BryingtonLeslie BestMark BethelJK BloomJudi BloomingdaleMichael BoettcherRoseann CaneCapital Region Women@Work,

A Times Union PublicationCorinne CareyPatricia CarleyCDTADiana CestaP. ChapmanBonnie ChavinMarjorie ChristianoJoyce Quaranta ChupkaKristin ColganCollar City Cross FitDavia CollingtonKathleen ConnollyLaura ConvoyAnne CoonradJoan CsapossDon CsapossDon and Joan CsapossBriana DarlingDonna DavineyMelissa DeAndresColleen DeMornvilleDesdelan PhotographyKathleen DonnellyEmma Willard SchoolInna ErlikhHelen FarnamFidelis CareFirst Niagara BankDebbie FowlerIlene FrankNancy FresinaTerry FrogelJudith GerbergJudith GiulianoCynthia GlynnShelly GoodmanDeandrea GreenErika GroffHannafordM. Hart

Heart to Heart ArtworksKathryn HenningsonAllison HillLinda HillmanHilton Garden Inn Hoosick Valley Contractors Inc.Hudson Champlain Region Porsche

Club of AmericaJohn HussunCorey Jamison and Mr. Jon BriccettiJoseph’s House and ShelterMeghan Keenholts, Esq.Merrill LynchSamantha KingsleyKathryn KlingerMonica KurzejeskiLisa LagonAntoinette LanoueNancy LerenChristine LeskyLisa LewisCharissa LewisMark and Kathy LinkKim Lockridge-HetkoMegan LongMegan Long KonikowskiCindy LovelyChris and Laurie MadsenSheila MahanM. Lynne MahoneyColleen MarroLinda MartinMartha MawhorrMetro MattressTheresa MillerTerri-Ann MontanyeTheresa MoroukianMaria MosherBeverly MulinirNaturally GrownNicoll & MacChesney Oakwood Community CenterJane OttoColeen ParatoreDana ParkerMiriam ParmeleeShanon PatrickPeter Young Housing, Industry, and

TreatmentPfeil Hardware and PaintNoreen PiletteMalissa Pilette-McClenonPatricia PiniazekPioneer Bank

Truly RheRhe PotenzaTiffany Powell-LambrightMarian PriceProctorsRensselaer County Chamber of

CommerceChristine RochaSherry RoundsRumors Salon & SpaSandy RussellVicki RussellMaryann RussoMary Ellen SageKrystal SalisburySEFCUSeven Blessings JewelryKathy SnowSodexoKimberly St. DenisTricia StampfliValerie StewartHolis SuljicicBeth SullivanSweet Sue’sTamarac High SchoolLeslie TaylorThe Charles F. Lucas Confectionary

& Wine BarThe Cookie FactoryThe Sage CollegesThe Troy RecordTimes UnionTroy Farmer’s MarketTroy Savings Bank Music HallTroy Web ConsultingTroy Women’s ClubUnbridledUngerman ElectricAnne Van Huber Thomas WaginBeth WalshLarona WardDiana WestbrookWalter WheelerCarolyn WilliamsHonorable Rodney WiltshireLeslie WrightBeth WrightYankee Trails World TravelSusan YonkersBenita Zahn

We have made every effort to recognize each contribution and donor. If we have made an error, please accept our apology and notify us at 518.274.7100 or malissap@ywca-gcr.org10 | ywca-gcr 2014 annual report

The YWCA-GCR by Pearl Delaney

The YWCA-GCR is the place to stay

You’ll be blessed everyday

The rent is a small part of your pay

So settle down and pray

Programs to help you along

Teaching and experiences, you can’t go wrong

Women empowering women is our thing here

Growing, enriching, expelling all fear

Check it out, no need to pout

You’ll be on the good route

Let’s give it a shout… WOOHOOOOOO!!!

pearlIf there’s one thing that Pearl’s story teaches you, it’s that it can happen to anyone. You can go from living in a comfortable home and owning your own successful business to becoming homeless and living in shelters within the blink of an eye. Pearl is a single parent who had aspirations of helping people. Once her two boys were grown, she decided to combine her love of floral design and people by going to college and earning an Associates degree in horticulture and social science. She opened The Ark (Area Resource Knowledge) in Valatie, NY nearly 10 years ago. The Ark was a thrift, gift, and a tea shop. Pearl refers to it as her “human resource center” because she also provided advocacy, counseling, and “direction” to people in need free of charge. The Ark was successful, and Pearl loved helping people and being able to provide a service for the community. “Life was good. Wonderful in fact,” says Pearl, when thinking about that time.

Then, just like that, it was gone. After nearly seven years of a successful business, the lot next to hers was sold to a new tenant. The new tenant took over the parking lot that she had been using for her business and planted 30’ cedar trees in front of her sign and bay window, and just like that she lost her customer’s access to parking and her business took a sharp decline. “I held on longer than I should have, just hoping something would change or turn around. First I lost my car, then my sister died, then the store closed, and finally I lost my apartment – all in the span of a year. It was just too much.”

Dejected and depressed, having lost everything, Pearl went south to see family and stay in a homeless shelter. “I wasn’t prepared for it. It was nothing I had every imagined for myself or my life,” says Pearl. She found living in the shelter very difficult and abusive. “It was such a terrible time. I had lost everything and I couldn’t take another loss.” Pearl moved back north and went to stay at the Joseph’s House and Shelter. It was there she learned about the YWCA-GCR.

“Coming to live at the YWCA-GCR in their permanent SRO housing program saved my life. Just having a room of my own was such a relief. It allowed me to heal and rest. If I hadn’t done that, I couldn’t have gone on. I had lost just too many things.” Pearl says that living at the YWCA-GCR has been an excellent learning experience. “If you take advantage of the supportive services, advocacy and participate in groups that are available to you, you can really excel, grow, and get where you want to be. It helped me build so many skills and provided such an amazing experience on human nature that I would never have gotten otherwise.”

Today, Pearl is looking forward to the future. She wants to pursue her writing (see poem in side bar) and is looking to get a volume of her poetry published. “I would like to open a marketplace in the area that would allow other people struggling, a place for them to start their own businesses as well as still help people and do the human services piece.” She also looks forward to taking the skills she’s learned at the YWCA-GCR with her and moving out into an apartment of her own, but not too soon. “I’m having so much fun here!”

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My Autobiography

My name is La’Nisha. I was born on November 7th 1989 at Albany Medical Center. At birth I was 2 pounds. That was because my mother used hard drugs during her pregnancy with me. I was immediately removed from her custody and placed in foster care. The doctor said I was very small (I could fit in a doctors hand) and a very low chance of living but I pulled through.

When I entered school it was very hard for me to understand school work. I didn’t know why but now I do. I had a learning disabilities due to the drugs my mother used during her pregnancy. I managed to make it to 12th grade, but graduated late.

A new chapter opened in my life on October 6, 2011 at 5:02 p.m. I gave birth to a wonderful sweet little boy that weighed 6’ 10”. He was the most wonderful thing that happened to me. I love my son Xzayvier with all my heart. He is 3 now. Watching him growing right before my eyes is amazing, “Mommy I love you!” he frequently says. Words can’t even describe how much Xzayvier means to me.

la’nishaLa’Nisha is a shining example of how a woman can transition through the programs at the YWCA-GCR to better her life and the life of her family. La’Nisha began in our Jamison-Rounds Ready for Work Program, but half-way through she found herself homeless. She was placed in our Women in Transition (WIT) program and has done so well, she is now in permanent housing in our 1-bedroom family apartments.

La’Nisha has lived at the YWCA-GCR for less than a year, but already it’s made a huge impact on her life and the life of her adorable three-year-old son, Xzayvier. She moved here in July of 2014 looking to make a better life for her and her son. At the YWCA-GCR she found stability, better opportunities, and expanded horizons. It was her first time living on her own and proving her independence. In the few short months she has been a resident, she has seen a big difference in herself – she has learned to communicate and ask for help.

In September of 2014 she joined the Jamison-Rounds Ready for Work Program. She was looking to gain life skills, training, experience new things, and fine-tune her workplace-communication skills. She loved the entire experience, especially all the different speakers and seminars. La’Nisha noticed a marked improvement of her writing and math skills during the 12-week program. She found one project in particular to be extra motivating – writing her own autobiography (see side bar). “It was the first time I had ever sat down and really thought about my story and what I have to say,” says La’Nisha. “I found the entire process to be extremely inspiring and introspective.”

The Jamison-Rounds Ready for Work Program made a real difference in La’Nisha’s life. “I loved it. It was a very good program.” She says one of the things it helped with most was making her realize her true potential and that a better life and future was really possible. “The 12 weeks were very intense, but well worth it.” She wants to tell anyone considering entering the program to go for and stick with it and you will see great results. “My only regret is that I didn’t know about it sooner. I wish I had found out about the program years ago.”

Since graduating from the Jamison-Rounds Ready for Work Program, La’Nisha has begun to work as a Project Hire in the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region, Inc.’s on-site food pantry. The pantry provides a monthly 9-meal (3-day) emergency kit to any resident in Rensselaer County who is struggling with food security. “I love working in the food pantry with Theresa. She’s been a great mentor to me. Before all of this my big flaw was with working with others, but since graduating it has really improved. I feel much more comfortable and confident and know I can do it.”

Because of the YWCA-GCR and the Jamison-Rounds Ready for Work Program, La’Nisha feels like her future is open and hers for the taking. She would like to find a job in childcare. “I see myself working, going to school, and taking care of my son. I want to make a better life for myself, and more importantly, for him.” Her biggest hope for her son’s future is for him to have a nice life. “I want him to be who he is, have good manners, respect women, get an education, stay in school, and say no drugs or alcohol, and now I believe this is truly possible.”

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What the YWCA-GCR means to me...

“I learned how to respect others and be more

responsible. I also love helping my mom with my

little brother. I made a lot of new friends here and love

the wonderful staff.”

- Katie, age 10

“I love going to day care. It’s wonderful that it’s right in

the same building as I live. I love Starr. Every time I see her, I run right to her. She’s

my buddy and gives the best hugs.”

- Brandon, age 3 (as told to his mom)

sherryWhen Sherry came to the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region, Inc. eight short months ago, it was in search for what we all want for our children – a better life. In July 2014 she was living with her mother-in-law when she went to apply for food stamps. She was informed by the Department of Social Services that her mother-in-law was not allowed to have guests and her family had to vacate immediately. They were sent to St. Paul’s Center, an emergency housing shelter for homeless mothers and their children. It had been almost four years since she and her two children – smart, shy, ten-year-old Katie, and fun-loving, adventurous three-year-old Brandon had been in a permanent home.

At first her relationship with her husband was good. He took care of her and she didn’t need to work – instead being able to focus on raising her daughter. But after six years his alcoholism became a problem. “I couldn’t deal with the mental abuse,” says Sherry, visibly shaken. “When he was drunk he was very disrespectful and I didn’t want our daughter to see that. So we left with nothing.”

After nearly four years of bouncing between shelters and couch surfing, Sherry finally found the YWCA-GCR. Since she’s been here she’s seen a lot of improvement in herself. It’s increased her self-esteem. “When I first got here I didn’t care about myself. Being here has really changed my life. I feel so different. Being here makes me feel confident. I actually want to get up and go everyday.”

Sherry says joining the Women in Transition (WIT) program gave her the stability she and her family had been missing. “Katie was depressed about being in a shelter. Now she is doing so much better. Starr makes her smile. Brandon is improving big time. His speech has increased a lot and he’s doing awesome here. They’re also very close to the people who live here – it’s their family.”

Last year Sherry’s WIT Peer Advocate, Lisa Hotte urged her to apply for the Jamison-Rounds Ready for Work Program. She talked to Wilhemina Hicks, the JR-RFW Employment Training Instructor, and decided it was the next step she needed to take for a better life for her family. “I really enjoyed it.” She’s loved furthering her math skills and really liked working with Ron Ishkanian from Literary Volunteers of Rensselaer County. She also found the budgeting sessions to be extremely beneficial. “It’s something I never did before, but now I’m learning to save my money.”

Today Sherry is looking to find a steady job. “It’s hard because the last time I worked was in 2003, but it’s something I have to do to be able to provide stability for my children.” She can’t thank the Director of Transitional Housing and Family Services, Starletta Smith, and Lisa Hotte enough for pushing her to fulfill her potential. Currently she’s in Project Hire and working on completing her GED. “What I hope is that everyone understands this place (YWCA-GCR) is important. It gave me hope and faith in myself.”

“I have no fears for the future. The YWCA-GCR has given me that confidence. It feels good.” Sherry hopes to move into her own apartment soon and begin a nursing program when she completes her GED. She plans on becoming a home health aid to help others in their homes. “I just hope my children are able to get good jobs, go to college, and get a good education. I have excitement and joy about the future; something I haven’t had in a long time.”

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ywca-gcr resourceful women’s luncheonthursday, november 7, 2014

sponsorsGroff NetworksThe Hilton Garden Inn, Troy Capital Region Women@Work, a

Times Union PublicationKeyBankJaeger & FlynnE. Stewart Jones Law Firm Pioneer BankDwight Plumbing & HeatingTroy Web ConsultingSEFCUPrice Chopper’s Golub

FoundationFirst NiagaraFusco PersonnelTeal, Becker & ChiaramonteNYSARC Trust ServicesMVPCDPHPArchitecture +Rose & Kiernan, Inc.Emma Willard SchoolHalliday FinancialSpiral Design StudioWojeski & Company, CPA’sNicoll & MacChesney InsuranceLori Schilnder RealtyMosaic Architecture AssociatesGTM Payroll ServicesHoosick Valley Contractors Inc.Siena CollegeMicroKnowledge, Inc.Corey Jamison Consulting

This year’s Resourceful Women’s Luncheon was the most successful event yet, with nearly 400 people in attendance and raising a record-breaking $30,000. WNYT News Channel 13’s Benita Zahn served as emcee for the event to honor 25 amazing women in the community. Each of the honorees were recognized for being resourceful in their professional and personal lives.

The luncheon honored PATTY FUSCO President and CEO of Fusco Personnel, Inc. as the Resourceful Woman of the Year. Having just celebrated the 20th anniversary of her firm’s founding the end of April 2014; Patty truly epitomizes the definition of not only a truly resourceful and accomplished woman, but is also a remarkably caring and giving woman in and beyond her community. Her professional life has been dedicated to matching women with the right employers, and despite her rigorous professional demands, she has always found the time to keep helping the community in both social and economic endeavors.

WILHEMINA HICKS, YWCA-GCR Employment Training Instructor, was honored as the Woman of Inspiration. The Resourceful Women Awards were established in 2000 to recognize and honor those whose community and professional pursuits advance the empowerment of women, a core value of the YWCA-GCR mission. The luncheon strives to honor everyday heroes, not just well-known women in highly visible positions. These accomplished, energetic, and committed women represent the spirit of determination of the YWCA-GCR.

Twenty-three additional, amazing women were honored at the event. Each of the women were chosen because they embody the mission of the YWCA-GCR, and are successful, resourceful and strong women. The honorees were:

MEAGHAN CARROLL, MS | Upper Hudson Planned ParenthoodJULIE CLANCY | Emma Willard SchoolERIN CROTTY | Audubon New YorkSHARON DILORENZO | Capital District Community GardensSTACEY POMEROY DRAPER | Rensselaer County Historical SocietyCHRIS GALEO | Stiletto SalonANISSA HOCHBERG | 3MDENISE HORAN | Integrated Management & Sales ConsultingKIMBERLY SANGER JONES | E. Stewart Jones Law FirmNANCY KEENHOLTS | The Country TrunkKASEY LABOY | Repeat Business Systems, Inc.TAMMY J. LABRAKE, LCSW | Boss It BackLISA LAGON | Jaeger & Flynn AssociatesMARIE MAXWELL | Greene County Mental HealthBRANDI MILLER | Albany-Colonie Regional ChamberTHERESA MOROUKIAN | Mosaic Associates ArchitectsANN NEILSON, D.P.E. | The College of Saint RoseLINDA O’MALLEY| Oakwood Community CenterRENEE PRICE | Hoosick Valley Contractors Inc.COLLEEN RYAN | Preservation League of New York StateANGELA SCESNY | Bouchey Financial Group, Ltd.MARION ROACH SMITH | marionroach.comNICOLE STEIN | SEFCU

Thank you to eveyone who attended the event and helped make it such a success. We would also like to thank The Hilton Garden Inn, Fleur De Lis, Lane Press, MicroKnowledge, Inc., The Times Union, Melysa Acevedo Torres, The Troy Record, Colleen Ingerto, Angela D’Amico Photography, and Benita Zahn.

14 | ywca-gcr 2014 annual report

honorary committee

Dawn AbbuhlJane and Wallace AltesVictoria Carosella Baecker,

Bouchey Financial GroupJames J. BarbaMr. and Mrs. Abraham and Jean

BolgatzPatricia CarleyKaren Eileen Carlson, Esq.Joyce Quaranta ChupkaPhyllis ConroyDon CsapossRobert Curley, Berkshire BankAndrea GoogasKathryn A. Henningson, Ph.D.Alane HohenbergHonorable Kathleen M. JiminoChristy JohnstonThe Kaleel Jamison Consulting

Group, Inc.Meghan Rielly Keenholts, Esq.Amy KleinLisa LagonKathy LanniLisa Robert LewisHonorable Christopher Maier and

Honorable Elizabeth M. WalshDan and Vicki MoranTheresa MoroukianSari O’ConnorColeen Murtagh ParatoreElissa Robison ProutLori V. Quigley, Ph.D.Honorable Lou RosamiliaSherry RoundsChrissy SarratoriSuzann SmartBeth Marcil SullivanCongressman Paul D. TonkoMichael and Lynette TuckerUpper Hudson Planned

ParenthoodMary Ann Willetts

Wanda Zygmuntowicz

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YWCA of the Greater Capital Region Inc.’s 360° of Support

The 360º of Support model is a range of services customized to address each women’s individual needs. Our 360º of Support allows women to define their goals, and with support, work together to achieve them. Individualized case management in conjunction with the YWCA of the Greater Capital Region, Inc. programs, support from community grants, volunteers, and collaborative partnerships provide 360º of Support for the women the YWCA-GCR serve. The women who come to the YWCA-GCR face different challenges, but with 360º of Support they can achieve financial independence, sustain permanent housing, secure and maintain consistent employment, recover from addiction, enjoy family reunification, dignity, and wellness.

By providing 360º of Support, women of the YWCA-GCR are empowered to become accomplished citizens of the community. 360º of Support enables the YWCA-GCR to provide all residents and program participants with tailored services they needs to become successful.

YWCA of the Greater Capital Region, Inc. | 21 First Street | Troy, NY 12180T: 518.274.7100 | F: 518.274.2572 | ywca-gcr.org | facebook.com/ywca.gcr