We Have Strength in Numbers: A Note from Kathleen's Desk

 Dear Friends,316.316 is the number of volunteers on record who have given their time and talent to YWCA Northeast Kansas in the past year. Although the official value of a volunteer is calculated as $23.35 per hour, the volunteers here at YWCA Northeast Kansas are invaluable to our mission of eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting social justice for all.Some volunteers support our mission by being on the front lines of service. When asked what makes them feel confident about working at YWCA Northeast Kansas, one of our long-term front-desk volunteers said, “the aspect of community while volunteering here. Knowing even my small part of volunteering and doing something so small is making an impact on this organization and the lives of others that come through.”

“Knowing even my small part of volunteering and doing something so small is making an impact on this organization and the lives of others that come through.” - YWCA Northeast Kansas front desk volunteer

Some folks just have a day or a few hours to lend to our mission. I am reminded of when a corporate volunteer team found a bag of disguises while cleaning up our Kids Quest storage room and decided to spend the rest of the day dressed in silly costumes. Afterward, the team wrote to us,  “You guys are doing such important work,” and “It was fantastic! Thanks for the opportunity!”Sometimes, the best way to show support is just by showing up. Proceeds from events directly support our mission. After our most recent Network Lunch with guest speaker Jay Pryor, one attendee told us, “I want you to know Jay’s program was the most significant message I have heard since seminary classes 25 years ago!” After our first-ever That’s What She Said event, one participant wrote, “on a personal note, I have had two of the most stressful weeks in my professional career, and last night’s event was exactly what I needed. I left feeling so uplifted.”For the month of November, we give thanks for the transformative services we are able to provide, and the donors, volunteers, and allies who make this work possible.To the 316 volunteers and all of you who are reading this newsletter: thank you for standing in solidarity for a strengthened community, Kathleen MarkerCEO, YWCA Northeast KansasJoin us in celebrating our volunteers and donors at our Strength in Numbers: Donor and Volunteer Appreciation Reception.  Kindly RSVP by November 10. Check out our noteworthy news from last month:YWCA Week Without Violence: Marching with a missionKansas opponents of domestic, sexual violence march to root out subjugationNationwide survey takes a look at sexual assault on college campusesYWCA of Topeka Marches against Domestic ViolenceTop 10 things to do in northeast Kansas: Oct. 13-19