Dear friends,
As 2021 nears its end, I want to reflect on the determination and bravery of our community members, donors, partners and staff, and the goals we were able to champion together in a challenging year. Malala Yousafzai captures this collective action best, “When the whole world is silent, even one voice becomes powerful.” YWCA Toronto’s work is possible because of those individual and collective powerful voices.
We began the year with a rallying cry. Our 2021-2024 Strategic Plan, A Bold Purpose, articulates a new vision for our Association: A radical transformation of society where all women, girls and gender diverse people can thrive. We put this vision into action by opening 389 Church Street – a permanent, supportive housing building for 120 women and their families who have experienced homeless. We further built on our affordable housing portfolio through a partnership with the Neighbourhood Land Trust, the City of Toronto and Toronto Community Housing Corporation that will see the transfer of 82 single-family homes and small buildings in Toronto’s west end in early 2022.
Collaboration continues to be a theme throughout the year. In partnership with the Lise Watier Foundation’s Let’s Start Up program, we offered a new employment program for women entrepreneurs. We also held our first virtual Women of Distinction Awards Gala this year – which was a resounding success through the support of our generous donors. Together, we raised more than half a million dollars.
On The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, we issued a clear public statement. We have since initiated an Association-wide equity and anti-racism audit. Our renewed commitment to racial justice helped us formulate a new direction for Camp Tapawingo, one where all girls and youth can thrive in safety and with the appropriate cultural supports.
On the advocacy front, we underscored the urgent need for a feminist recovery through two digital campaigns, and a series of submissions and meetings with elected officials. Our national movement advocacy on the child care front culminated in a federal child care plan – and we are working closely with provincial partners to ensure the Province signs this deal as well. We continue to advocate for a feminist recovery plan at all orders of government.
Our blog amplified new voices this year as well. From June Ip’s piece about the rise of anti-Asian hate to our piece on YWCA Toronto’s Ontario House – a program in the early 1900’s to house Black women – we hope you will continue referring to our blog for really powerful feminist voices.
To mark December 6th, the Toronto Star published our op-ed calling on further government investment to end gender-based violence. We have also launched a new philanthropy campaign to raise funds for our emergency shelters and programs that support survivors. Connected to our campaign is the incredible story of Hope, a former Women's Shelter resident, who led an 18-month long transnational search for her abducted son with the help of YWCA Toronto.
Lastly, I am honoured to share that we have been chosen as one of Greater Toronto's Top Employers for 2022. This award confirms our commitment to our staff, who inspire us so much with their dedication to improving the lives of women, girls and gender diverse people.
They say many hands make light work. Our work, while not easy, has been made possible by all of our donors, funders, partners and people like you. I am optimistic that together, we can continue making positive changes in our community while standing up for a better tomorrow.
Wishing you laughter and light this holiday season.
With gratitude,
Heather