The YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts was founded in 1911. Our Mission speaks to the elimination of racism and the empowerment of women.

The organization has undergone major changes nationally, regionally and locally, but it continues "to create opportunities for women's growth, leadership and power.” The YWCA adopted its One Imperative in 1970, ''to thrust its collective power toward the elimination of racism wherever it exists and by any means necessary.” We continue to work to that goal internally and throughout our service area. Our Board of Directors and staff reflect the diversity of the area with a concentrated effort to have many locales served.

The YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts serves an area that stretches from the Rhode Island state line east to Provincetown, south to the Islands and north to Attleboro, Brockton and Plymouth. Most of the members and the vast majority of the participants in programs and services reside in the Greater New Bedford area. This YWCA is one of 300 local associations of the YWCA USA, incorporated individually and operated autonomously by a Board of Directors elected by the general membership.

The YWCA helps women, girls and their families attain self-sufficiency by providing services to support the vast needs of people from numerous populations.

YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts service area