Letter to the Editor: YWCA Legacy
I was on the board of the Santa Monica YWCA when the transitional housing and education program for the emancipated foster girls was launched. Under Sally Young’s leadership, with endowed funding and many supporters, the YWCA created a program that has helped so many young women. It is quite sad to learn of the closing of that program and of the YWCA.
The YWCA board has a challenge to do the right thing at this point, after 90 years of service to the community. I urge the current board members to be very thoughtful in their discussions and decision-making as to the next phase of its history.
While it would be easier to just sell the property, give away the proceeds, and walk away, there is greater merit and honor to taking a much longer view and leaving a legacy that has a much longer presence and benefit in the community for deserving residents.
Carol Parente, former YWCA Santa Monica Board member
Retired Nurse Practitioner