YWCA Central Alabama Company Profile

Background

Founded in 1903 by Maybelle Sloss, YWCA Central Alabama is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Over its 120-year history, the organization has evolved to address the changing needs of the community, focusing on providing shelter, dignity, hope, and a strong foundation for women, children, and families in Central Alabama.

Key Strategic Focus

YWCA Central Alabama's strategic focus is built upon three primary pillars:

1. Community Housing: Offering affordable and supportive housing options for women, children, and families, including permanent and transitional housing programs.

2. Child Development: Providing quality child development programs for children of homeless and working poor families, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for early education.

3. Domestic Violence Services: Delivering comprehensive services such as emergency shelters, counseling, legal assistance, and advocacy for victims and survivors of domestic violence.

These pillars are underpinned by a commitment to social justice, aiming to break generational cycles of poverty, systemic racism, and violence.

Financials and Funding

As of the fiscal year ending December 2023, YWCA Central Alabama reported total revenues of $6,895,263 and total expenses of $7,795,231, resulting in a net deficit. The organization's total assets stood at $12,078,814.

The organization receives funding from various sources, including grants from foundations and other nonprofits. Notable contributors include:

United Way of Central Alabama: Provided $1,351,332 for general operating costs.

The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham: Contributed $299,472 for family and social services.

Navigate Affordable Housing Partners: Granted $100,000 to assist in replacing HVAC units in the downtown building containing over 64 apartments and 10 transitional units.

Program Development

YWCA Central Alabama offers a range of programs designed to support its mission:

Domestic Violence Services: Includes a 24-hour crisis hotline, secure confidential shelters, counseling, and legal assistance for victims in Jefferson, Blount, and St. Clair counties.

Community Housing: Provides various housing options, such as permanent housing units, transitional housing for families experiencing domestic violence, and senior housing.

Child Development: Operates a nationally accredited child development center offering early education and care for children from low-income families.

Leadership Team

The leadership team of YWCA Central Alabama comprises experienced professionals dedicated to advancing the organization's mission:

RaSheda Workman: Appointed as Chief Executive Officer effective August 12, 2024. Workman brings over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and government sectors, previously serving as Executive Director of Government and Community Relations at Stillman College.

Monica A. Romano: Serves as Chief Operating Officer, overseeing the organization's daily operations and program implementation.

Cindy Dillard: Interim Chief Financial Officer, responsible for managing the organization's financial health and strategy.

Jenny Sneed: Vice President of Finance and Board Member, contributing to financial planning and governance.

Susan Wilson: Vice President of Development, leading fundraising and donor relations efforts.

Leadership Changes

In August 2024, RaSheda Workman was appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Dr. LaRhonda S. Magras. Workman's extensive background in community relations and nonprofit management positions her to lead the organization into its next chapter.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

YWCA Central Alabama operates within the nonprofit sector, focusing on social services such as affordable housing, child development, and domestic violence support. The demand for these services remains significant, driven by ongoing social challenges and the need for community support systems.

Competitor Analysis

While YWCA Central Alabama is a unique entity with a broad range of services, it shares the nonprofit landscape with other organizations addressing similar issues. Competitors may include local shelters, community housing initiatives, and child development programs. However, YWCA's comprehensive approach and longstanding presence in the community provide a distinct advantage.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

YWCA Central Alabama collaborates with various organizations to enhance its services and reach:

United Way of Central Alabama: A significant funding partner supporting general operations.

The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham: Provides grants for family and social services.

Navigate Affordable Housing Partners: Supports housing initiatives through targeted grants.

Operational Insights

The organization's strategic focus on social justice and empowerment, combined with its comprehensive service offerings, positions it as a leader in the nonprofit sector within Central Alabama. Its ability to adapt to community needs and maintain strong partnerships enhances its operational effectiveness.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, YWCA Central Alabama aims to assess and evolve its service model to meet the changing needs of the community. This includes revisiting programs affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, such as youth development initiatives, and exploring new avenues for community engagement and support.