YWCA Muskoka champions positive change for girls, women and gender diverse people through education, leadership and advocacy.

Creating Connections - between systems, organizations, community members and individuals - will help us eliminate the conditions that exclude girls, women and gender diverse people from full participation across Muskoka. (Theory of Change, 2024) 

YWCA Muskoka has 4 strategic priorities: 

Building Relationships

YWCA Muskoka is a proud and integral part of a global YWCA movement. YWCA Muskoka is recognized as an active and innovative member association of YWCA Canada and a go-to organization within the regional community for collaborations. As a Community YWCA, we reach out to engage new partners, donors, volunteers and clients to co-create innovative solutions. 

Cultivating Economic Resilience

For over 20 years, the YWCA has focused on 'Women in Business' self-employment training for women living in a rural area with fewer  employment opportunities. Since 2014, we have included community-based poverty reduction initiatives, fraud prevention and financial literacy,  as women in our community have been disproportionately affected. Having the power to make choices and financial decisions is a key factor in preventing IPV. 

Preventing Gender-Based Violence

Gender-based violence and human trafficking are growing concerns in Muskoka. Alongside Muskoka’s shelter agencies and crisis responders, YWCA Muskoka maintains a strong presence as a prevention-focused service provider. We advocate and reach audiences through Girlz Unplugged, Quest programs, women’s programs and community-based events. The December 6th Fund, established in 2010 and one of our key safety measures for those in danger, has evolved to include NESS fund grants and also provides system navigation support.

Promoting Mental Health & Wellbeing

If we hope to achieve holistic wellbeing for all, we need a new systems approach that models the future we want to live in. Our programs must help participants to build healthy relationships, mental and emotional health and interdependence. We must develop our expertise in creating safer spaces and programs that lift people up. Our staff and volunteers must feel valued and inspired to stretch their understanding of diversity, intersectionality and anti-colonial practices. As YWCA Muskoka moves closer to achieving its collective goals, it will do so with attention to prioritizing care, finding balance, developing confidence and competence, and respecting individual aspirations.

YWCA Muskoka is a community charitable organization that serves women and girls of Muskoka in central north Ontario. Uniquely a 'YW without Walls', we take an affirmative learning approach and reach out to over 1000 participants with programs and services each year in a large rural region.  YWCA Muskoka is proud to be one of 29 Member Associations affiliated with YWCA Canada.