YWCA Southwestern Illinois is on a mission to eliminate racism, empower women, stand up for social justice, help families, and strengthen communities.

What We Do ↘

YWCA Southwestern Illinois provides child enrichment, public policy and advocacy, racial justice, youth programs and wellness programs.

  • What is Advocacy at YWCA?

    What is Advocacy at YWCA?

    Advocacy is about caring enough to act for change.

  • Your Voice, Their Ears

    Your Voice, Their Ears

    Keep legislators informed on community matters.

  • Southwestern Illinois' Public Policy Agenda

    Southwestern Illinois' Public Policy Agenda

    Supporting DACA, domestic violence victims, and more.

  • Advocate for Women, Girls, and More

    Advocate for Women, Girls, and More

    Join us to create real, positive change.

Our Programs ↘

YWCA Southwestern Illinois provides direct services, empowerment programming, and advocacy to support marginalized individuals and families, especially women and girls of color, while working to challenge structural barriers to equity.

  • Child Enrichment

    Child Enrichment

    Year-round Child Enrichment for children in the Alton, Roxana, and Wood River-Hartford Districts.

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  • Public Policy & Advocacy

    Public Policy & Advocacy

    Support for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program and victims of domestic violence

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  • Racial Justice

    Racial Justice

    We aspire to function as an educator and a convener to address and end racism in our communities.

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  • Youth Programs

    Youth Programs

    Programs such as Community Tutoring, Girls Who Code, and Girls Circle support healthy development.

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  • Wellness

    Wellness

    We offer opportunities to get fit, get educated, and connect with others in the community.

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  • Women’s Empowerment

    Women’s Empowerment

    We serve women through empowerment events, scholarships, support groups, and vital programming.

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Become a Member Today ↘

Become a member for only $50 annually to support our cause. Membership also unlocks access to various offerings at our facility.

Benefits of being a YWCA member include:

  • Embracing diversity and social justice

  • Helping women become economically independent and self-sufficient

  • Supporting the youth of our community with a strong educational foundation

Reach Out ↘

YWCA Southwestern Illinois provides direct services, empowerment programming, and advocacy to support marginalized individuals and families, especially women and girls of color, while working to challenge structural barriers to equity.

  • I Need Help

    YWCA Alton is here for every woman and child, providing a nurturing environment that fosters growth, empowerment, and positive change. Reach out to us at 618.465.7774 or visit our center to learn how you can benefit from our programs and become a part of our community-driven mission.

  • I Want To Help

    As a volunteer, you can directly impact our community by dedicating your time to our programs, advocacy efforts, or events. Your unique skills and passion can help drive our mission forward, making a lasting difference in the lives of women, girls, and people of color.

What’s Happening

The latest updates from YWCA Southwestern Illinois

It Takes Courage

We create real change. Every day.

Support our mission for racial justice and empowering women. ↘

$25

Fuel for empowerment programs

$50

Boosting community outreach efforts

$100

Amplifying advocacy and support

$___

Custom support for lasting impact