YWCA Lincoln is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Through programs focused on youth development, family and community engagement, and economic empowerment, YWCA Lincoln works to create meaningful opportunities for individuals and families, focused on three key areas: the health and safety of women and girls, social and racial justice, and the economic advancement of women and girls.

Youth Development Programs

The mission of the YMCA Lincoln Youth Development programs to inspire youth to reach their full potential and dream big. Committed to advancing, teaching, and inspiring young girls to explore their identities, build confidence, and contribute positively to their communities, programs focus on mental wellness, life skills, career exploration, and civic engagement. 

• CATCH is a mentorship and leadership program catching high school girls at a pivotal time to help them become more confident and aware of life skills leading to success in everyday life as a young adult. 
• SMART Girls Club is an empowerment program for youth girls in 4th through 8th grades to explore science, technology, engineering, and math learning about diverse topics, opportunities, activities, careers, and women in S.T.E.M.
• Take A Break is a caregiver respite program designed to support parents and guardians of children ages 1–12 who are on the autism spectrum or have other access and functional needs.  The program provides respite for parents while their children participate in a welcoming, supportive environment.
• Girls Circle is an evidence-based program model and the first gender-responsive program in the country to demonstrate effectiveness in reducing delinquency for girls from 9-18 years old. The program objective is to foster strengths and promote resiliency while sparking their highest potential. 

For more information/questions about Youth Development Programs, contact Allison Dancy

Family & Community Engagement Programs

YWCA Lincoln strives to reduce barriers, promote economic independence, and create opportunities for individuals and families throughout Lincoln. In these programs, goal is to meet community members where they are and provide meaningful support to strengthen families, empower individuals, and connect community members with resources that support their well-being, personal, and professional growth. 

• Wholesome Hygiene Program Through this program the YWCA Lincoln provides hygiene and personal care essentials to individuals and families in need. By addressing these basic needs, the program helps individuals and families focus on other important aspects of their lives.
• Job Outfitters The YWCA Lincoln and the Lincoln Goodwill have partnered to provide a wide array of clothing and services for Job Outfitters clients, whether preparing for a job interview, beginning a new position, or pursuing career advancement. Learn more.
•  Community Computer Labs Recognizing the growing importance of technology in education, employment, and everyday life, YWCA Lincoln now offers free computer labs available to everyone in the community, M -  F,  9:00AM- 4:00PM
• Employ402 provides resources and coaching to build confidence, skills, and knowledge to support participants in reaching their goals to secure and create a profitable employment experience. Part of Employ 402, the YMCA Lincoln offer Financial Literacy Workshops designed to help community members make informed financial decisions, build confidence, and plan for the future.

Upcoming Financial Literacy Workshops: 

• Holiday Budgeting: Celebrate More, Stress Less!, Thursday, December 10, 2026 | 5:30–7:00 p.m. Facilitator: Brittany Planos, Financial Literacy Program Senior Manager. Participants will discover practical ways to manage holiday spending, find thoughtful gifts without overspending, and enjoy the season while staying on budget and avoiding holiday debt. Register here: Holiday Budgeting Registration⁠
• Turning Tax Time into Opportunity: Thursday, February 25, 2027 | 5:30–7:00 p.m. Facilitator: Brittany Planos, Financial Literacy Program Senior Manager.  Participants learn how to make the most of their tax refund, understand common tax credits and deductions, and avoid costly filing mistakes, as well as explore free tax preparation resources available through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program. 

For questions or inquiries regarding any Family & Community Engagement Programs, please contact Farida Mohamed

Volunteer & Community Partnership Opportunities 
Community involvement is essential to the success of YWCA Lincoln’s programs and initiatives. Volunteers, college students, community organizations, and local businesses are invited to partner with the YWCA to support youth development programs, assisting with community events, and contributing to resource initiatives, and expand access to essential services. Be a changemaker!