The YWCA Giving Club

Phyllis Wheatley, born a slave, was the first published African American poet in the U.S. and the namesake of several YWCA branches that served African Americans. The Phyllis Wheatley Branch of YWCA St. Louis was founded in 1911, and was the center of intellectual life in the Mill Creek Valley neighborhood.

Give in Honor of Phyllis Wheatley: $324 annually/$27.00 monthly can provide agency-wide services, including transportation for nine women to counseling, a job interview, classes, or a court appearance for an Order of Protection.

Dr. Molly Cline is a longtime supporter, board member, committee member and volunteer. 

Give in Honor of Dr. Molly Cline: $553 annually/$46.08 monthly could provide two months of financial education along with credit and asset building for one woman, breaking the cycle of poverty.

A key executive leader from the 1920s through the 1940s, Louise Roblee McCarthy held the titles of National Director of the YWCA and Vice President of the International World YWCA. She was a fierce advocate for racial and gender equity, championing progress within the St. Louis community and beyond.

Give in Honor of Louise Roblee McCarthy: $729 annually/$60.75 monthly could provide a survivor of sexual violence with trauma-informed counseling, housing, and advocacy throughout the legal process, and response to an emergency room for nine Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) volunteers to nine victims of sexual assault including a set of clean clothing to replace those collected by nurses and police as evidence.

A beloved figure in the St. Louis community, Alberta Gantt is remembered for her lasting contributions to the YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Branch. Her legacy lives on through the Alberta E. Gantt Fashion Show, a tradition celebrated for over 50 years.

Give in Honor of Alberta E. Gantt: $986 annually/$82.16 monthly could provide safe housing and resources for three women fleeing domestic violence for one week through Rapid Re-Housing.

Dr. Marilyn Robinson served as CEO of YWCA Metro St. Louis from 1989 – 1993, leading a significant period of growth, including securing Primary Grantee status for Head Start and expanding services for women and families. Under her leadership, the budget tripled, staff more than tripled, and a new facility was acquired for administrative offices and transitional housing. In 2023, she was honored with the President’s Award at Leader Lunch 43.

Give in Honor of Dr. Marilyn Robinson: $1,229 annually/$102.42 monthly can support one child in Early Education, providing them with high-quality educational experiences to give them a head start to kindergarten.