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 Our
Founder, Maybelle Sloss,
had a dream in 1903 of a Young Women's Christian
Association to give "hundreds of noble working girls influences
which will keep them sweet and womanly in adverse circumstances."
While the language reflects a different time, the message of helping
women in "adverse circumstances" is as relevant today
as it was at the turn of the last century.
The YWCA Central Alabama 's future builds upon
its past - one filled with vision, risk taking, responsibility
and high ethical principles. This history retraces the steps of
the YWCA from the agency's beginnings in 1903 to the vital programs
currently underway.
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  Idea
Becomes A Reality
Maybelle Sloss persuades her Bible class at First
Methodist Church to support the city organization. After a visit from
the Traveling Secretary of the YWCA, each class member commits to
raise $100 annually on its behalf. On March 24, the YWCA Central Alabama
becomes incorporated. |
 Making
Do
The YWCA rents the F. Y. Anderson home at 720 North
21st Street. even without indoor plumbing or electricity, many young
women make it their home when they come to the city in search of employment. |
 The
Legacy Begins
Anna Somerville McLester becomes President, serving
until 1933. She takes the YWCA from its infancy to a stable, vital
social service agency. |
 Home
Improvements
Purchased three years earlier, the Pollock-Stephens Institute needs
an annex built to accommodate the growing needs of the clientele.
On May 11, the annex complete with gym, pool and dormitory opens
to serve women "of small salary." This facility has served
the YWCA for 35 years. |
An
Independent Beginning
For many years, Pauline Jackson has sought to establish
a YWCA for black women. In 1912, the Negro Secretary of the National
Board of the YWCS, Eva Bowles, visits and helps establish this branch
with over 800 members. A rich variety of recreational and vocational
programs are offered. |
 The
Tea Room
Serving the working girls
in the downtown area, the YWCA opens this cafeteria since there are
so few facilities open to women. |
Answering The Call
With men overseas fighting World War I, women join the work force
in greater numbers. The YWCA's boarding and training programs are
filled to capacity. Birmingham industry is booming. Mary Davis Stradley
leads this period of growth and the next 30 years as Executive Director. |
Wholesome Camp Life
Another dream is realized with the gift of a campsite by Rosa Earle
Munger, a former Board member. Located outside of Trussville on the
banks of the Little Cahaba River, Camp Mary Munger serves young girls
for over 40 years. |
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