Recently, YWCA St. Paul had the honor of receiving some very special mail from a woman named Dorothy, the daughter of a former program participant. Her mother, Cynthia, sadly recently passed away at the age of 91. Before her passing she shared stories with her daughter about her involvement with YWCA St. Paul in the 1950s.
“My mother was very active with your organization in the 1950s,” Dorothy shared. “Upon graduating from high school, she was not interested in college or getting married so she joined the YWCA. With your organization she went to the BWCA, ski trips to Colorado, and met life long friends. The YWCA was foundational in shaping who she became as a woman, a mother, and a role model to so many.”
“Recently, at 91, she passed away and in her final months we still talked about the fun she had and the influence the YWCA had on her.”
“When reading your website, I saw the history by decades and the 1950s were exactly as she had told me. You will find a copy of a newspaper article she had saved since 1953 with all of the photos from her trips. When you read it today, it sure communicates what society expected of women and I am grateful the YWCA saw all that women could do and offer.”
Indeed, the newspaper clippings (below) show the stark difference that more than 70 years makes.
The end of Dorothy’s beautifully-written letter reads: “I cannot think of a better organization to donate in memorial to her. Please continue to make a difference in the lives of women.”
YWCA St. Paul is truly grateful and honored to be a part of the lives of so many women over the last century. We will continue to make a difference for women and their families in honor of Cynthia, Dorothy, and every other woman who has been touched by the work we are lucky to do each day. Thank you so much, Dorothy!
