The local YWCA’s CEO, Wendy Waters-Connell, has more than twenty years of experience leading non-profit organizations, including more than two years in her role at the YWCA. We caught up with Ms. Waters-Connell to learn more about her service to her community through her leadership of the YWCA.
Tell me about your day-to-day in your work at the YWCA. What skills do you have to use to be successful?
The day to day work is driven by the mission to eliminate racism and empower women. No day is the same, and it changes in a second. We must walk the talk of addressing racism in all forms and promote equity. Our foundational programs include the only domestic violence shelter in Butler County. We also provide shelter for victims of human trafficking. We have a permanent supportive housing building for chronically homeless people with disabling conditions. We also run youth education and empowerment programs in the schools called FIERCE Girls and Men of Honor. We hope to create tomorrow’s leaders of influence.
The skills I need to be successful include a positive outlook, a drive to never give up, and belief that the transformation which happened in me will happen in others… it is the grace of human compassion which alters the future.
What is one surprising positive or a particular ‘bright spot’ about the work you’re doing these days?
The bright spot in my day always begins with the amazing team that comes to work every day at the YWCA. They are also strong women who never give up. They are inspirational. Secondly, I have the privilege of observing the emergence of hope in children and adults who thought the world didn’t care, or forgot about their worth.
Why is it important for all of us in Hamilton to support non-profits that are active in our local community?
The work of non-profits is often the hardest in society. There are limited resources to support the efforts of missions to heal the wounds of trauma, or to counter the impacts of chronic and toxic stress. Without support from our community, families and children would suffer far greater. We know the challenges, and we are positioned to help those who need us. We need funds and volunteers from the communities as our fuel!
What keeps you excited about the work and mission of the YWCA?
Seeing hope emerge in the spirits of those we serve; watching them turn around and do the same for others. This is the great circle of gratitude that changes our world. I believe we can work to eliminate hate and empower women. I am inspired by the sheer grit of women to do what is needed, no matter how hard!