YWCA Monterey County

We are a nonprofit organization that has been at the forefront of the most critical social movements for more than 160 years. From empowering women and advocating for civil rights to affordable housing and work compensation equity to violence prevention and health care, we create change.

Our mission is to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. 

You can learn more about our local history in Monterey County here.

Through ongoing programs, conferences, events, and initiatives, YWCA leaders are engaging communities to recognize the broad-based, negative and consequential effects of racism. Our mission and work require courage. We must serve communities most affected by economic, racial, and gender oppression. Together we can influence policies and legislation that ensure progress for all people impacted by violence, poverty, racism, and sexism.

Our current programs include: 

• A 24-hour domestic violence crisis line
• Two confidentially-located Safehouses
• A domestic violence support team that assists clients
• Legal advocacy services (assisting with restraining orders, emergency custody, and other tools to help families)
• Training, education, and support groups for communities across the county
• Mental health services to support individuals going through traumatic events
• Youth outreach and prevention