I write to you today to announce my decision to transition from my role as Executive Director of YWCA Helena. I have so much gratitude for the opportunity I've had to support critical housing work, to build programs designed to respond to systemic barriers for women and children, and to steward a legacy YWCA Helena has created for over a century.
Over the past five years, we've achieved significant milestones:
· YWCA Helena was on the brink of achieving it's endorsement from the state to become a licensed Substance Use Disorder program. In late 2019, we launched the clinical aspect of WINGS, enabling us to tap into Medicaid funding.
· We weathered a global pandemic. The work of YWCA Helena's team to keep women safe in the unknown is unparalleled. Safety and health has always been our top priority, but became a critical focus while operating a shelter for women and children. What made this possible was the connection of the community to the mission and heart of YWCA Helena. Thank you.
· We've created innovative programs to address a child's experience during homelessness, frequent changes in custody, and a mother's recovery. The Caterpillars programming is novel and continues to keep the child at the heart of programming through parenting skills, childcare, and child counseling.
· Our community support has grown, because of you, to support the exponential growth how YWCA Helena serves women and children. Nearly 300 individual supporters like you created a 63% increase in community donations supporting programs. In the last 5-years we've also grown our annual grant support by 72%, or a whopping $550,000!
· The average number of clients we serve weekly increased from 36 in our programs to 112 every week in 2023. We've done this because of your support. Thank you.
None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the dedication, hard work, and passion of our remarkable team, our supportive board members, and you — our loyal supporters and donors. It is time for YWCA Helena to intentionally and strategically design its next stage.
My decision to step down was not an easy one. After much reflection, I believe it is time for me to pursue new personal and professional challenges. I am confident that the time is right for a transition that will bring fresh perspectives and continued growth to YWCA Helena.
Denise King, Director of Operations, will step in as interim director. Her experience as the Administrator for the Montana Historical Society made her an easy pick nearly a year ago to become Director of Operations at YWCA Helena. She will ensure operations, programs, and the mission run smoothly during this transition.
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each of you—our Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, partners, and supporters. Your unwavering commitment and enthusiasm have been a constant source of inspiration and have played a critical role in our successes. I am deeply grateful for the trust and support you have shown me throughout my tenure.
While this is a farewell from my current role, I look forward to continuing to support YWCA Helena through my energy and donations. I am eager to see the organization continue to thrive and make a positive impact.
Thank you once again for the opportunity to lead and for your continued support of YWCA Helena. It has been an honor to work alongside such a dedicated group of individuals, and I am excited to see what the future holds for this extraordinary organization.
With sincere gratitude and best wishes,
Jenifer Gursky
Executive Director
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