The YWCA of Black Hawk County provides before and after school care through a program known as Y's Kids. With the support of Cedar Valley United Way, these kids receive an experience that encourages a positive future. The following is one YWCA staff member's story that proves these lasting benefits.
 
I have recently reconnected with an amazing young lady that was enrolled in Y's Kids in 2000-2001. She sought me out to invite me to her graduation open house, and to let me know that she had been accepted to Spelman College, one of the nations most respected and well-known all black female colleges. She is a finalist for not one but two major national scholarships.
 
"I will always remember my time at the YWCA, getting to know you and all the staff. It was a positive in my life at a time when there weren't many positives going on," she said. I know we have the ability to reach kids in the moment, but it is truly gratifying to know that at least for some, the impact is much longer reaching.