Joining
Hands The 8th Avenue Branch formally affiliates with
the YWCA Central Alabama , opening communication among black and white women.
Records indicate that this affiliation is the first of its kind in
the National Association.
Working
With Teens
Girl Reserves is a popular teen service
program for hundreds of black and white girls. The first GED classes
in the city are offered by the YWCA.
A
Bold Move
The
previous year city government has purchased the 19th Street location
leaving the YWCA homeless. After a temporary stay with the YMCA, the
Board purchases the Dixie Carlton Hotel, investing almost a million
dollars in refurbishing. This building continues to be the home for
the YWCA. Lucille Crabtree becomes Executive Director.
Booming
Programs Camp Mary Munger is serving up to 125 girls each
summer. The residential program houses 200 young women and has a waiting
list. As many as 90 classes each week are offered for fun and learning.
Carrie B. Allen becomes Director in 1956. Y-Teen program replaces
Girl Reserves, and teens from across the city enjoy dances at Calico
Corner. Summer Fun and child care start.
Two Decades
Of Leadership
Standing For
What Is Right
At 24 years of age, another young
woman takes up the vision of the YWCA. Ethel Gibson becomes Executive
Director and leads the agency for the next 21 years.
At a time when race relations
are turbulent, the central YW seeks a closer tie with the YWCA
branch. Many black and white women come together to plan and develop
programs in spite of criticism. The YWCA loses some supporters.
Tightening
the Belt
The Board makes a commitment to stay downtown and serve the neediest
of women. The members undertake another fund drive to keep the program
operational and renovate the facility, despite the pressure from many
to move to the suburbs.
Joining
Hands
Booming
Programs
Tightening
the Belt