Empowering individuals, strengthening families and building a community has been the mission of the Central Branch of the YWCA of Metropolitan Dallas since the early 1960’s. First opening on Jackson Street in Downtown Dallas in 1963, the Downtown YWCA became the Central YWCA when it moved to is present location at 4261 Ross Ave. in 1975.
Children laughing and playing, physically challenged adults and youngsters, seniors enjoying fellowship and a hot meal, all can be found on the first two floors of the Central Branch building. The YWCA has a variety of programs to suit all interests from counseling to the new power walking seminars.
The Central YWCA is a branch of the fifth largest YWCA in the United States, the YWCA of Metropolitan Dallas. As the Metropolitan Association enter its 87th year of service to women and their families throughout Dallas County, the Central YWCA has played a very important role in that tradition of service to individuals and families in the East Dallas community.
Currently more than 2,000 women, men and families are members of the Central Branch and are enrolled for its multiple programs of fitness, recreation and education. More than 130 children, ages 18 months to 13 years, are cared for annually by the highly-trained child-care staff.
Two of the unique programs found at the central YWCA include:
- Adaptive Aquatics, a pool-based program which offers classes to benefit the disabled population, the very young and old, the mentally retarded and physically challenged.
- Club Young at Heart began at the Central YWCA in 1983 with the help and continuing assistance of the Junior League of Dallas. League volunteers also run a special two-week camp in October and April for seniors in the regular program as well as others in the community. With features such as speakers, health programs, arts and crafts, games and field trips, this club for senior women and men has become a very popular program at the branch.
Also of importance to the East Dallas community is Y’Buys, a thrift shop on the first floor of the Central Branch which sells gently worn men’s, women’s and children’s clothing. Occasionally, small domestic goods and linens are also available.
Further, Women’s Resource Center programs are available on the third floor at 4621 Ross, and include legal clinics, job development and career classes, counseling and information and referral.
For more information on the many programs and services at the YWCA Central Branch or for a list of volunteer opportunities, including the annual August garage sale, please call 827-5600.
