The first association in the U.S., Ladies Christian Association, formed in New York City

Thirteen women form the YWCA to help the growing number of single women arriving alone in Chicago

First residence for women opens 

A dispensary provides for women’s medical needs and care for the sick in homes

The Education Committee adds academic classes including English grammar and bookkeeping 

Begins to help African American women find employment

Integrates facilities, Board of Directors and committees 

Supports access to birth control for women

Female doctors give Health Education workshops

Works with local rabbis to combat anti-Semitism 

Interracial Education Conference teaches ways to overcome prejudice

Encourages blood donors to protest the labeling of blood from white and black donors 

Interracial Charter adopted, starting the process of desegregation

Membership and leadership positions opened to non-Christians

Direct Action Program begun to ensure full desegregation in community YWCAs

South Suburban and DuPage YWCAs open to meet the needs of women moving to the suburbs 

First modern child care program begins at Ida B. Wells public housing

The One Imperative (“To thrust our collective power towards the elimination of racism, wherever it exists, by any means necessary.”) adopted

Leader Luncheon pioneers the concept of public recognition for working women’s achievements 

Closure of McCormick Residence after 43 years marks the transition away from residency programs 

Women gather to pioneer rape crisis services

Expands services to underserved minority, gay, lesbian and immigrant communities 

Corporate name changed from “Young Women’s Christian Association of the United States of America, Inc.” to “YWCA USA, Inc.”

The first association in the U.S., Ladies Christian Association, formed in New York City

Interracial Charter adopted, starting the process of desegregation

Membership and leadership positions opened to non-Christians