YWCA Northwestern Illinois

09/04/2026

Healing Illinois is a statewide grant initiative supporting organizations doing community healing and racial equity work. If your organization is ready to apply, our info session will walk you through everything you need to know.

You'll learn what reviewers are looking for, see examples of strong proposals, and find out how to avoid the most common application mistakes.

📅 September 8 | 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Register: https://Bit.ly/HILInfosession1

A second session is also available on September 15 if this date doesn't work for you.

09/03/2026

Ready to build a career in tech?

YW Tech Lab offers hands-on training in IT support, including Google IT Support and CompTIA A+ certification prep, with no prior experience required. Participants also gain soft skills coaching, resume help, and a paid internship along the way.

If you or someone you know is looking for a real path into the tech field, this is it. Learn more and apply: ywcanwil.org/ywtechlab

09/03/2026

We're seeking new team members! Look for our positions on Indeed!

YWCA Northwestern Illinois

09/02/2026

An estimated 34.7% of women in Illinois experience domestic violence during their lifetime. Behind every statistic is a person, a family, and a story that deserves support, safety, and hope.

If you or someone you know needs confidential support, contact the Family Peace Center at 779-348-7600 or visit rockfordfamilypeacecenter.org. Help is also available 24 hours a day at 877-863-6338.

09/02/2026

Healing Illinois Grant is Now Open!

Do you lead an organization working to bring people together, build trust across differences, or strengthen your community? Healing Illinois wants to fund your work.

At YWCA Northwestern IL, we know that lasting change happens when local organizations are equipped and resourced to lead it. That's why we're excited to help spread the word about this opportunity for nonprofits right here in our region to foster healing and community connection statewide.

✅ Who can apply: Illinois 501(c)(3) organizations
📅 Deadline: Monday, September 28
🗣️ Get your questions answered: Info Sessions on September 8 & September 15
🔗 Start your application today: www.healing.illinois.gov

09/01/2026

On September 17, the Coalition to Sustain Adult Education will hold a press conference at Federal Plaza in Chicago, calling for sustained funding for adult education across Illinois.

These programs help adults build literacy skills, learn English, and prepare for the workforce, services that remain in high demand statewide.

Representative Theresa Mah and Senator Graciela Guzmán will speak on behalf of the Coalition. YWCA Northwestern Illinois stands with them in urging continued investment in adult education.

📅 Wednesday, September 17 | 10:00-11:00 a.m.
📍 Federal Plaza, Chicago

08/29/2026

Yes, One Table is still on! The rain should be moving out by 4:00 p.m. and we look forward to welcoming all of our guests at 6:00 p.m.!

08/28/2026

Attention Belvidere! Our free ESL classes begin September 14th with flexible morning (9 a.m.–12 p.m.) and evening (5:30–8:30 p.m.) options for beginner and intermediate learners.

Students get personalized support in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, all completely free.

Join us for a special registration session in Belvidere on September 1st to reserve your spot.

Learn more and register: https://www.ywcanwil.org/litcouncil/free-classes-for-adults/

¡Atención Belvidere! Nuestras clases gratuitas de ESL comienzan el 14 de septiembre con opciones flexibles en las mañanas (9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.) y las tardes (5:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.) para principiantes e intermedios.

Los estudiantes reciben apoyo personalizado en comprensión auditiva, conversación, lectura y escritura, completamente gratis.

Acompáñenos a una sesión especial de inscripción en Belvidere el 1 de septiembre para reservar su lugar.

Obtenga más información e inscríbase: https://www.ywcanwil.org/litcouncil/free-classes-for-adults/

08/28/2026

What is Domestic Violence?

According to the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence, domestic violence can happen to anyone, from any background. It doesn't discriminate based on age, race, sexual orientation, income, education, ability, or gender, anyone can suffer from abuse, at any time.

While physical abuse might be the first thing that comes to mind, an abusive partner may try to exert control in other ways too, including verbal abuse, social isolation, and control over finances. At its core, domestic violence is about power, and its purpose is for the abuser to control the victim through whatever means it takes.

If you or someone you know needs confidential support, contact the Family Peace Center at 779-348-7600 or visit rockfordfamilypeacecenter.org. Help is also available 24 hours a day at 877-863-6338.