our voice ywca eliminating racism empowering women
YWCA WESTMORELAND COUNTY PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
Fall 2015
YWCA Westmoreland County • 424 North Main Street • Greensburg, PA 15601
724.834.9390 • fax: 724.834.9391• www.ywcawestmoreland.org Monday - Thursday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Friday: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
contents
2 A Message from Kathy
3 2015 Fashion Show
4 Literacy Program
5 Childcare
6 Thrift Shop
7 2015 Celebration of Unity
8 Technology Center
9 TechGYRLS
10 Health & Wellness
11 Event Photo Gallery
12 Fashion Show Appreciation
Mission: We are dedicated to eliminating racism,
empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.
Vision: We live and work in a community that
embraces equity, acceptance and diversity; and in which women and girls have opportunities for en-richment and advancement.
2015 - 2016 YWCA Board Members Angela Apple
Christine Black
Linda Gioia Simon
Diane Hightower (Second Vice President)
Jackie Johns
Nicolina Kelly
Betsey Larese (Secretary)
Sharon Marks
Luanne Matta
Karen Struble Myers (Treasurer)
Stacey Nedrow-Ross
Carlotta Paige
Jessica Rafferty (First Vice President)
Kathy Raunikar (Executive Director)
Faye Rosatti
Danielle Shaffer
Norma Skillings (President)
Sharon Sparks
Carlene Williams
Tina Wodzinski
YWCA Executive Staff Kathy Raunikar, Executive Director
Diana Basick, Thrift Shop Director
Marae Johnston, Childcare Director
Gina McGrath, Technology Director
Nikesha Moore, Marketing/Wellness Prog. Coord.
Maggie O’Leary, Literacy Program Director
Cheryl Angus, Fiscal Manager
Betty Hammer, Fund Development Consultant
2
A Message from Kathy
STRATEGIC PLANNING
One year ago we embarked on an information-gathering
journey. Our destination was the development of a strate-
gic plan that would guide the direction of the organization
over the next five years. On this journey, we sought input
from Board members, staff, members at large and commu-
nity members. We enhanced our organizational vision and
developed three priority areas to support the achievement
of our mission and vision. Our priority areas are Program
Development and Delivery, Community Outreach, and Fi-
nancial Stability. We worked together to define long range
goals, strategies, and objectives. We have reached our des-
tination. We have a plan! Strategic thinking will be a key
element as we travel forward. I like Henry Mintzberg’s
analogy (1994) in which he described strategic planning to
“finding the dots” and strategic thinking to “connecting the
dots.” With a solid strategic plan in hand, our new ongoing
journey of implementing and evaluating or “connecting the
dots” begins!
Here are some highlights from the 2016-2021 Strategic
Plan:
Program Development and Delivery
We will continue to deliver quality programming that sup-
ports our mission and serves the needs of the community.
Strategies include supporting parents in meeting their needs
by providing safe, affordable, nurturing and enriching
childcare programming; giving adults and families the op-
portunity to acquire the literacy skills needed in order to be
effective in their roles as members of their families, com-
munities and workplaces; serving as a facilitator and lead-
ership organization for issues related to racial justice;
providing education and advocacy to promote diversity and
cultural competence; ensuring that all people, especially
women and girls, have access to computer technology that
is often necessary for success at work, school and home;
increasing the purchasing power and promoting the eco-
nomic empowerment of women and families by providing
affordable choices for clothing and household goods;
providing recreational and enrichment activities for person-
al fulfillment; and collaborating with other organizations
and nonprofits when appropriate to enhance or expand pro-
gram offerings.
Community Outreach
We will strive to promote awareness throughout West-
moreland County of our mission-driven programs and ser-
vices. Strategies include leveraging Board, staff, volunteers
and participants who are able to share stories of how the
Kathy L. Raunikar
Executive Director
YWCA positively impacts their lives and their communi-
ty; leveraging YWCA’s increasing national presence;
hosting events and sponsor programs and trainings
throughout the county; seeking collaboration opportunities
with other county organizations and nonprofits; optimiz-
ing use of electronic marketing through social media plat-
forms, email and the website; redesigning brochures and
printed media to consistently convey mission impact; opti-
mizing marketing opportunities through a variety of media
outlets (newspapers, radio, TV, billboards).
Financial Stability
We will advance our long term financial health and sus-
tainability. Strategies include identifying the scope of our
Fund Development Plan; summarizing recent perfor-
mance; reviewing and strengthening our fundraising
“Case for Support”; evaluating and enhancing our Fund-
raising events; strengthening our major gifts program;
setting a fundraising goal; improving our Planned Giving/
Endowment Program; developing a fundraising calendar;
planning for corporate and foundation program grants.
The entire strategic plan can be found on our website
at www. ywcawestmoreland.org.
3
2015 Fashion Show
2015 GIRLS IN PEARLS FASHION SHOW
Everyone loves a bargain and a great time. So, what was not to love about the 2015 YWCA Westmoreland County
Girls in Pearls Fashion Show Fundraiser featuring clothing from our Thrift Shop? Over 300 people gathered on
Monday, August 17, 2015 at Rizzo’s Malabar Inn, in Crabtree for an evening of fun, food, frills and fashion in cele-
bration of this year’s theme, “Lovely in Lace.” This year’s show recorded the highest attendance in the history of
the event. The “Lovely in Lace,” fashion show had 21 models, including three special guests:
Sister Lois Sculco, Seton Hill University, VP for Institutional Identity and Mission
Dr. Sharon Smith, University of Pittsburgh in Greensburg, PA, President
Dr. Tuesday Stanley, Westmoreland County Community College, President
Pittsburgh designer Kiya Tomlin delighted the crowd again this year as the celebrity emcee. We would like to thank
everyone who has helped make this year’s event a huge success. We are deeply grateful to all of our guests, volun-
teers, donors, sponsors, models, YWCA Board Members and the YWCA staff.
THANK YOU 2015 FASHION SHOW SPONSORS!
ALENCON LACE SPONSORS: Dollar Bank Treasury Management
Rosine Dull, Never Enough! Boutique
Tidwell Realty
PRINCESSE LACE SPONSORS: Contempo Artistries Salon
Barbara VanKirk, IQ Inc.
4
FROM THE DESK OF MAGGIE O’LEARY, LITERACY PROGRAM DIRECTOR FALL EDITION 2015
Literacy Program
To every volunteer who helped make this year’s used book sale
a success, we say...
TUTORS NEEDED
The Adult Literacy Program and English as a Second Language Program are looking for tutors and conversation
partners.
There will be a mandatory Orientation on Thursday, October 29, 2015 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for anyone inter-
ested in becoming a tutor.
The Training Workshop for tutoring is going to be held on the following days:
Thursday, November 5, 2015: Workshop Session I
Thursday, November 12, 2015: Workshop Session II
Thursday, November 19, 2015: Workshop Session III
To register for Orientation and the Training Workshop for tutoring, please call Maggie O’Leary at the YWCA
Westmoreland County office at 724.834.9390 X106.
ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE
Why wait for next semester’s classes to start? Join us now as we are excited to improve and develop your skills.
Please call the YWCA Westmoreland County office to register at 724.834.9390 X106.
OUR CLASSES ARE CURRENTLY IN SESSION
LEVEL DAYS TIME
Beginner Student Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Intermediate Student Mondays & Wednesdays 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
“CHILDREN ARE MADE READERS ON THE LAPS OF THEIR PARENTS.” ~EMILIE BUCHWALD.
5
Childcare
KIDZ ZONE NEWS: MT. VIEW & BAGGALEY ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
The YWCA Westmoreland County is committed to supporting parents in meeting their children’s needs. The Kidz
Zone before and after school program provides affordable care in a supervised, safe, secure, and nurturing environ-
ment. The Kidz Zone Program is licensed by the PA Department of Welfare to operate a Child Care Center serving
children enrolled in grades K-6. We have a few openings in the after school programs at both schools. The program
begins at dismissal and runs until 6:00 p.m. For more information or to register, please call 724.834.9390 X117.
PRESCHOOL NEWS!
The YWCA 2015-2016 Preschool year is already in full swing. We welcomed both some new and familiar faces this
year into the 3 and 4 year old preschool programs.
September’s lessons enhanced the opportunity for children to get to know each other, to learn about families, and to
even find out more about themselves. We went camping, picked some apples, and began learning our ABC’s and
123’s as the foundation for future development.
October’s lessons focus on the change in the seasons and diversity in the classroom, at home, and in the community.
The children were visited by our own Maintenance Director and Volunteer Firefighter, Matthew Kolbosky, who dis-
cussed the importance of Fire Safety.
November’s Preschool Open House is scheduled for Thursday, November 12, 2015, immediately after class for the 3
year old children. The 4 year olds will have their open house on Friday, November 13, 2015 from 9:30 a.m. - 11:30
a.m. for the morning session and from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. for the afternoon session.
Do you know of a child who was not ready to start preschool in September, but is ready now? Would they like to
join the fun and gain kindergarten readiness skills? If so, please contact Marae Johnston, Childcare Director, at
724.834.9390 X117 for a tour and enrollment packet. You may enroll your child in our program anytime, space per-
mitting.
PRESCHOOL CLASS INFORMATION
4 Year Old Preschool Class 3 Year Old Preschool Class
Must be 4 years old by September 1st Must be 3 years old by September 1st
Monday, Wednesday & Friday Tuesday & Thursday
9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 9:30 a .m. - 12:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. N/A
Monthly Tuition is $95.00 Monthly Tuition is $70.00
6
THE AREAS OLDEST
RESALE & CONSIGNMENT SHOP Follow us on Facebook for specials & announcements
www.ywcathriftshop.org
Are you ready for winter? The YWCA Thrift Shop is
ready! We have plenty of winter coats, jackets and sweat-
ers. Shop early for the best selection.
We are currently looking for volunteers to help with con-
signment. If you would like to learn more about volun-
teering at the Thrift Shop, please call Diana Basick,
Thrift Shop Director at 724.834.4339. Volunteer applica-
tions are also available at www.ywcawestmoreland.org.
YWCA THRIFT SHOP 2015 FALL SCHEDULE
CONSIGNMENT
Winter consignment will be from Monday, October 5,
2015 - Monday, January 4, 2016. Donations made
through consignment are accepted at the YWCA Thrift
Shop. Consignors agree upon a selling price for each
item. Consignors receive 50% if the item is sold. Cloth-
ing must be cleaned and pressed. The number of items
accepted per intake is 12. There is a required processing
fee of $1 for the 12 items. The consignment agreements
are valid for 30 days. Once 30 days have passed, it is the
responsibility of the consigner to collect their items or
their items become the property of the Thrift Shop.
Please call in advance to confirm consignment is open.
PA WORKWEAR
PA WORKWEAR, provided by the YWCA West-
moreland County is an opportunity for women to receive
interview and work clothing. Clients include women who
are:
Changing careers
Re-entering the work force from unemployment
Re-entering the work force from job training
Women are encouraged to call 724.834.4339 to schedule
an appointment with a personal clothing consultant.
Would you like to contribute to PA WORKWEAR by
donating? If so, we accept the following donations:
Trail or full size toiletries of shampoo
Conditioner, lotion, toothpaste, and brushes
Deodorant, disposable shavers, and make-up
An assortment of these items as well as a calendar are
given to PA WORKWEAR clients. The PA WORK-
WEAR program is always looking for more maternity
wear, such as pants, jeans, tops, and sweaters.
Thrift Shop
YWCA THRIFT SHOP LOCATION
ADDRESS 221 South Maple Street
CITY & ZIP CODE Greensburg, PA 15601
PHONE 724.834.4339
YWCA THRIFT SHOP DAYS & HOURS
DAYS HOURS
MONDAY-SATURDAY 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
THURSDAY 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Monday, October 5, 2015
Winter Consignment Starts
Monday, December 21, 2015 - Saturday, January 2, 2016
Closed
Monday, January 4, 2016
YWCA Thrift Shop Re-opens
7
2015 Celebration of Unity
19th ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF UNITY
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Westmoreland County Courthouse Square
5:30 p.m. -7:30 p.m.
“Respect - Equality - Dignity”
The Central Westmoreland County Unity Coalition in partnership with the YWCA Westmoreland County is holding
its 19th Annual Celebration of Unity on Tuesday, October 20, 2015, in the Courthouse Square from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30
p.m.
This year’s theme is “Respect-Equality-Dignity” and attendees are encouraged to wear R.E.D. The event will feature
a community style “street fair” which will allow attendees to view and learn more about the true diversity of our com-
munity. Community groups will be managing tables that attendees can visit for information, a learning activity, a
product, or a free sample of food. Theme-related art work created by our area children will also be displayed through-
out the square. Local entertainers will be performing and refreshments will be available. Your participation will help
us celebrate the diversity of our county and thus strengthen our community. The celebration will conclude with at-
tendees joining together to recite the Unity Pledge.
The Central Westmoreland Unity Coalition was started as a pro-active response to the Ku Klux Klan. The Unity Coa-
lition believes in the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, the equality of all people, and the right of each
person to live free of discrimination and harassment. As such we pledge to work for the establishment of a communi-
ty in which harmony and justice thrive.
Pictures from the 18th Annual Celebration of Unity
8
Technology Center
TECHNOLOGY CENTER NEWS
Windows 10, the latest operating system for PC’s has
been released. We will be upgrading the computer lab in
December 2015 with new Windows 10 computers and
Microsoft Office 2016 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Pub-
lisher, Access and Outlook). We will continue to offer
technology classes on all electronic devices including
smartphones, tablets, and iPads.
We are conducting training at various libraries
throughout Westmoreland County. Check your local
library for more information.
We have been conducting customized trainings for
companies to provide the opportunity for their employees
to become more proficient in using the software needed
for their jobs. This eliminates many hours of frustration
and unproductive time. The employees are eager to learn
and grateful for this opportunity. We schedule trainings at
times and days that are convenient for you either on your
site or in our computer lab.
Join us monthly for answers to your technology prob-
lems. We meet the second Thursday every month from
2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Registration is required. You are
more than welcome to bring your own device (BYOD) to
this session.
Technology Class Schedule is online at www.ywcawestmoreland.org We offer classes for all ages ~ Men and Women ~ Beginners to Advanced.
Only eight students per class and we teach at a slow pace. Private Tutoring for Individuals and Customized Business Training Available.
A great gift for the holidays or any occasion is a Gift Certificate for a Technology Class at the YWCA Westmoreland County. The gift certificate can be used towards any iPad, tablet, smartphone, computer class, or private tutoring. We offer private tutoring for any electron-ic device including smartphones, tablets, PC’s, and e-readers. Call 724.834.9390 X107 and ask for Gina McGrath, the Technology Director for more information.
GINA’S TECH TIPS
What is the main difference in electronic devices such as
smartphones, tablets and e-readers?
The main difference is the operating system. Think of
the operating system as the “Boss” on the device: Goog-
le’s operating system for an Android device, Microsoft
Windows operating system for a Microsoft device, iOS
operating system for an Apple device. These devices are
manufactured by many different companies such as Sam-
sung, Toshiba, Motorola, LG, HTC and Asus (to name a
few).
The other main difference is where you download the
apps for the device. On a device running the Google An-
droid operating system you use the Play Store. On a de-
vice running the Microsoft Windows operating system
you use the Windows Store. On a device running the iOS
operating system, you use the App Store.
Here’s a chart for a better explanation:
Operating System Where You Get the Apps
Google Android Play Store
Microsoft Windows Windows Store
Apple iOS App Store
9
TechGYRLS
TechGYRLS News
Our YWCA Yough Middle School TechGYRLS are preparing for the FLL® Robotics Challenge. The theme this
year is TRASH TREKSM, they will explore the fascinating world of trash. From collection, to sorting, to smart
production and reuse, there is more to your trash than meets the eye. More than 233,000 children ages 9 to 16
from over 80 countries will explore the fascinating world of trash. Mrs. Gail Burkett is coaching our
TechGYRLS. They will participate in two scrimmages and in the competition in January 2016. Good luck to our
team!
Our TechGYRLS Program continues to grow and thrive. TechGYRLS in Derry Area, Greensburg Salem and
Ligonier Valley Middle Schools will be participating in a Robolab I or Robolab II session this semester. We are
currently in the process of establishing this program in two other school districts in Westmoreland County.
Please contact Gina McGrath, Technology Director for more information at 724.834.9390 X107.
10
Technology Center
AM YOGA WITH NANCY MICHAELS This series is designed to focus on specific areas of the
body to strengthen and stretch muscles. This class will
help participants build strength, balance the body’s sys-
tem, increase body awareness, and increase energy
while learning specific postures.
Thursdays 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Nancy Michaels, YOGA Instructor
Six week course fee per session for members: $45
Six week course fee per session for non-members: $55
Session I:
October 1, 2015 - November 5, 2015
Session II:
November 12, 2015 - December 17, 2015
T’AI CHI ~ FALL 2015
Linda Vucelich, Wellness/T’ai Chi/Qigong Instructor
Cost for members: $44
Cost for non-members: $54
KIDS POWER KARATE Girls & Boys ages seven to twelve
Thursdays 5:45 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Six week introductory course is $45.00
Winter Classes:
Thursday, January 21, 2016 - Thursday, February 25, 2016
Spring Classes:
Thursday, April 14, 2016 - Thursday, May 19, 2016
LITTLE NINJAS Girls & Boys ages four to six
Thursdays 5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Six week introductory course is $40.00
Winter Classes:
Thursday, January 21, 2016 - Thursday, February 25, 2016
Spring Classes:
Thursday, April 14, 2016 - Thursday, May 19, 2016
INSTRUCTOR & CLASS LOCATION:
Lori Brantley, Director of the Kids Power Karate Program
PKSA KARATE
209 West Drive
Greensburg, PA 15601
REGISTER FOR KID’S POWER KARATE OR LITTLE NINJAS:
724.834.9390
COOKING TIME WITH SERGIO AT THE YWCA
All classes are held on Monday nights from 6:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Please call 412.953.6424 to speak with Sergio Maragni, Italian Cooking Instructor for more information
2015 SCHEDULE
Monday, October 26, 2015 Shrimp Scampi
Monday, November 2, 2015 Limoncello
Monday, November 9, 2015 Veg Lasagna Alla Besciamella
Monday, November 16, 2015 Lamb Lollipops
Monday, November 30, 2015 Chicken Cordon Bleu
COMBINED T’AI CHI SCHEDULE
DAY DATE TIME
Tuesday November 3, 2015 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday November 10, 2015 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday December 1, 2015 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday December 15, 2015 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Heath & Wellness
11
Event Photo Gallery
Event Photo Gallery Event Photo Gallery
YWCA Westmoreland County Book Sale
Monday - Thursday: September 24 - 27, 2015
YWCA Westmoreland County Annual Girls in Pearls Fashion Show “Lovely in Lace”
Monday, August 17, 2015
12
424 North Main Street
Greensburg, PA 15601
www.ywcawestmoreland.org
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Greensburg, PA
Permit No. 385
return service requested
Thank you to our Sponsors:
Alencon Lace Sponsors:
Dollar Bank Treasury Management
Rosine Dull, Never Enough! Boutique
Tidwell Realty
Princesse Lace Sponsors: Contempo Artistries Salon
Barbara VanKirk, IQ Inc.
Save The Date!
2016 Girls in Pearls Fashion Show
Monday, August 15, 2016
YWCA Westmoreland County Annual Girls in Pearls Fashion Show
“Lovely in Lace”