YWCA Greater Cleveland

YWCA and EDEN program participants learned about and celebrated Juneteenth in an art therapy session led by staff. Creativity through art can be liberating. We support our community in their journey to housing stability.

This is how we recognize Juneteenth at Norma Herr Women's Center-Walton Avenue - session on the history of JUNETEENTH and about FREEDOM. Encouraging creative expression, all of the women wrote a word of freedom on their shoes. (ie FREEDOM, No Jail, I need a Job, Home), they listened to songs of FREEDOM and they stated we are walking out our FREEDOM in their new tennis shoes donated by a a member of the community.

marks the day freedom reached those who had long been denied it—and reminds us how far we still must go.

At YWCA USA, our commitment to eliminating racism is not symbolic. It’s constant, urgent, and actionable. Today, we honor Black liberation, confront injustice, celebrate Opal Lee, the grandmother of Juneteenth, and recommit to building a future rooted in equity and dignity for all.

YWCA Greater Cleveland President & CEO Helen Forbes Fields and 2026 Woman of Achievement Honoree Dr. Michele Scott Taylor joined a panel to connect with emerging leaders during a Women in Leadership session hosted by Engage Cleveland for Young Professionals Week. Their inspiring conversation highlighted leadership, purpose, and the power of investing in future generations.

Last week, we celebrated the remarkable women whose leadership, advocacy, and service continue to strengthen our community through the Women of Achievement Award.

For decades, this event has recognized women who are creating meaningful change across Northeast Ohio—whether through business, education, healthcare, philanthropy, public service, or community leadership. Their achievements remind us that progress happens when individuals use their talents, influence, and passion to open doors for others.

At YWCA Greater Cleveland, our mission is to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. The Women of Achievement Award not only celebrates extraordinary accomplishments but also highlight the collective impact that strong leaders, organizations, and community partnerships can have in advancing equity and opportunity.

We are grateful to our honorees, sponsors, supporters, and community partners whose commitment helps fuel programs that support housing stability, economic mobility, workforce development, and pathways to success for women and families throughout our region.

Congratulations to this year's honorees and thank you for inspiring future generations of leaders.

Footprints in Cleveland-Join us at MidTown Cleveland’s Children’s Day in AisaTown.

Stop by our table at Bessie’s 5k Walk/Run. Proud to support partners in the cause to end homelessness and provide supportive housing.

TONIGHT! We're gathering to honor our 2026 Women of Achievement honorees. If you're not able to join us in person, you can still be a part of our most special night of the year. Text 'WOA26' to 41444 to make a gift and follow the progress to our goal along here: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/public/campaigns_keywords/graph2 #/282922/fundraising/wall.

GiveSmart Fundraise