Congratulations again to Milita Lee, the Q2 Employee of the Quarter! Per her nomination, Milita “consistently exemplifies what servant leadership, excellence, and professionalism look like at YWCA. From my very first interview through onboarding and training, Milita made the entire process seamless, welcoming, and empowering. She created an environment where I immediately felt supported, prepared, and valued as a staff member. That level of intentional leadership has had a lasting impact on my experience working at the YWCA." 

Navya Nalla and Aliyah Hiram facilitated RE101 at the YKP McVay campus on July 21. As a result, 100% of students reported that they better understand the timeline of American history as it relates to institutionalized oppression, which is amazing! 

As a reminder, the RE:101 Workshop is an introductory session exploring racial equity and anti-Black systemic racism in America. Designed to be engaging and adaptable to school and community settings, it is an engaging way to get students on the pathway to be effective change agents in their community. Thanks to YKP for allowing us to spend time with your Explorers in Blacklick and McVay! 

Several of the WR staff have been registered and will be completing education requirements for CDCA certification (Ohio Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant). This training will provide education and strategies to support our residents around recovery and wellness.  

WR is also working to grow its community collaborations and partnerships, as well as engaging new partners in the work. Recently, the Breathing Association provided education and linkage services for residents with respiratory concerns or who wish to engage in nicotine recovery. Additional partners have been added to provide behavioral health support, with UMADAOP providing a weekly education and support group for residents. Columbus State Community College will also be providing a Digital Skills Course series to residents in August. 

The Resident Council has been busy with changes being made to processes and protocols in our pantry and the Empowerment Shop as a direct result of resident feedback. The Council will be electing a new slate of Resident Advisory Board Members to the Council by early fall.

First, thank you to everyone who took the time to participate in our Culture Survey. Your honest feedback is invaluable, and I appreciate the trust you've placed in this process.  

While our Culture work is still in its early stages, I want to acknowledge one theme that has already emerged: some employees experience our culture differently, including perceptions of inconsistency in how policies, practices, and support are applied. Hearing that feedback is important, and I take it seriously.  

During the upcoming period, Talent and Culture will be my primary strategic focus, in line with the priorities outlined in our Strategic Plan. Supporting our employees consistently is essential to fulfilling our mission and serving the residents, clients, and community members who rely on YWCA Columbus every day. We must build a workplace where every employee feels respected, supported, and equipped to do their best work. 

As an initial step, I am asking Human Resources to report directly to me on an interim basis while we assess the support our employees need to thrive. Human Resources will also be in the office in-person five days a week beginning Monday, August 3. 

Additionally, our Culture Project is still underway. UpRys, our consultant, is conducting confidential focus groups to better understand employee experiences. I strongly encourage you to participate if you have the opportunity. These conversations are an essential part of developing a thoughtful, actionable implementation plan that reflects the experiences of our staff. Here is the link to sign up for sessions available through August 14. 

Thank you again for your willingness to share your perspectives and to help shape the future of our organization. I look forward to continuing this work together. 

With gratitude, Liz