The Circle of Women fundraiser luncheon is an inspirational opportunity to support life-changing programs in the community, empowering women and girls in profound ways.

Last year over 1,300 people, 90% of them women, came together to network, "shop" the silent auction for a fabulous new bag, and be inspired by the stories of the girls and women whose lives are changed by the YWCA every day.

Celebrate the power of women to create our own legacy through our philanthropic support and vision. As Susan B. Anthony remarked, "Woman must have a purse of her own." Through our collective passion we can create the future we want to see.

We are proud to report that 87% of the over $495,000 raised at the 2008 event directly supported YWCA programs in the Minneapolis community.

The YWCA of Minneapolis is a stable force in the lives of the over 25,000 girls, boys, families and community members we serve every day.

• 20,000+ health and fitness members use our three urban fitness centers in Downtown, Uptown, and Midtown Minneapolis. A welcoming, inclusive environment supports their efforts to be healthy and strong.
• 3,000+ youth, adults and families are awarded health and fitness scholarships to support their commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
• 1,700+ diverse individuals participate in public forums, community dialogues, workshops and trainings to take action to improve race relations in the community and Minnesota.
• 1,500+ urban girls and youth learn leadership skills, improve academic success and engage in their community.
• 900+ constituents are educated and mobilized to take action on local and national policy issues affecting their lives.
• 450+ children receive a high quality early childhood education preparing them for school.
• 300+ youth and their family members actively engage in culturally specific nutrition, fitness & wellness activities to take charge of their health.

About the Program

There is something powerful about coming together to listen to those whose voices aren't always heard - the participants of the life changing programs of the YWCA of Minneapolis. During the Circle of Women program, individuals whose lives have been profoundly impacted share their stories with attendees.

Voices at Circle of Women 2008

Maria, Girls & Youth participant in the Strong Fast Fit program:

"I passed the mountain in my way, and it's an experience that can help me get ready for other mountains put in my way no matter their size, big or small. Now I don't get shy. I just express what's in my heart."

» Read more of Maria's story

Mirael, Girls and Youth participant in the Girl's RAP program:

"The RAP program, taught me how to hold my head high, walk away from conflicts, and discover new things that can make my life more positive and exciting . We talk about the many different ways to avoid conflicts, how to have healthy relationships, positive self esteem, and how to be assertive and not aggressive. The best part is knowing that I have my own safe space at the YWCA."

» Read more of Mirael's story

Stephanie, Children's Center parent:

"As a well-resourced, well-educated middle class person, it never occurred to me that I could be in a position to need a scholarship for childcare . . . that I could be in a position of having to choose between affording a safe, nurturing environment for my child or the mortgage or medical bills."

» Read more of Stephanie's story

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2009 Corporate Sponsors

Supporting Sponsors

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Corporate Table Sponsors

Brookfield Properties General Mills HealthPartners Pepsi Bottling