The
mission of the Phyllis Wheatley YWCA is "To provide affordable housing and programs to women in transition to prevent homelessness.
We also provide outreach services to children in the community. Phyllis Wheatley YWCA operates as an
independent living facility.
The
history of Phyllis Wheatley Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA),
Inc., is a long and exciting one. It is the story of African-American women
with a vision to start a YWCA for “Colored” women and girls in the early
years of the twentieth century when such a deed was impractical and required
great courage.
The idea for a YWCA began
when Mrs. Rosetta Lawson, a churchwoman and social activist, became inspired
by a Chicago YWCA organizer. Upon her return, she invited her literary
group, “The Booklovers Club,” to consider organizing a YWCA in the District
of Columbia. The invitation was extended on April 5, 1905, at the Berean
Baptist Church. As a result, the first YWCA in Washington was organized on
May 5, 1905. The temporary headquarters was two rented rooms at Four and One
Half Street and Maryland Avenue, Southwest. The established goal was to
provide care, housing, and guidance to the hundreds of “Colored” women and
girls flocking to the city to seek employment. The initial concern, as it
is today, was lodging for working women and girls.
The first President was Mrs. Bettie Francis, followed by Mrs. Frances
Boyce. Mrs. Julia West Hamilton was the third President of Phyllis
Wheatley.
In
1918, the “Colored” YWCA became affiliated with the National Board [1] of
the Young Women’s Christian Association of the United States of America. The
D.C. Central YWCA assumed Phyllis Wheatley would be a financial drain and
chose to remain separate from the “Colored” YWCA. Thus, Washington was the
only city with two independent YWCAs.
On
the corner of Ninth and Rhode Island Avenue, Northwest, stands a four-story
building of eclectic architecture and gracious looks. Within the walls lies
a tremendous story that spans nearly one hundred years. The building was
dedicated on December 19, 1920, as the first “Colored” YWCA in the United
States of America. In 1923, the name Phyllis Wheatley [2} was chosen and
the organization was incorporated as the Phyllis Wheatley Young Women’s
Christian Association, Inc.
In
keeping with its mission, Phyllis Wheatley is the only YWCA in the District
of Columbia providing affordable housing to women regardless of race, creed
or color. We also serve many women in transition. A major renovation and
expansion of the facility was completed in 2000 at a cost of $3.8 million.
There are 117 furnished single rooms and efficiency units. In spite of
vigilance in monitoring residents from all walks of life, some units incur
damage. Due to the escalating cost of utilities, maintenance, and repairs,
the monthly mortgage and operating costs often exceed monthly income.
Current programs include music and crochet classes, a Young Reader’s Program
with Seaton Elementary School, an Adult Book Club, an annual community
day/health fair; and, the Mid-Summer Soiree. A day care center and religious
organizations use our facility. A program schedule with activities for
adults and youth is published in the newsletter.
Along with the Honorable Eleanor Holmes Norton, the Phyllis Wheatley YWCA
was the recipient of the 2005 “Living the Dream” Award from the District of
Columbia Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission.
Through the years, a dedicated group of African-American women have given
their time, talents and treasure to ensure the survival of Phyllis
Wheatley. We ask you to help us preserve this rich, heritage and honor
those who have gone before us by generously supporting the Phyllis Wheatley
YWCA. To continue this great work, assistance is needed from members and
friends in the community as well as corporate partners and sponsors.
Phyllis Wheatley YWCA is not currently affiliated with the National YWCA.
Named for Phyllis Wheatley, first Negro poet.
Phillis Wheatley YWCA is not currently affiliated with the National YWCA.
