The YWCA Jamestown has received a $100,000 grant from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation to implement a Social Justice and Race Equity Program.

The funding will help the YWCA to build upon events and programs, such as Stand Against Racism and the 21 Day Challenge for Racial and Social Justice, to offer a full slate of activities, lectures, trainings and more to individuals in the community and local organizations.

Dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all, the YWCA Jamestown’s power comes from the women and girls the organization serves, along with donors and sponsors who are equally committed to the work of justice.

“We are truly thankful for the community foundation and their generous support to expand the capacity of this mission-oriented program. The grant will help to amplify our ability to serve our community, and help us fulfill our mission to change the power structures that determine the future.” stated Amanda Gesing, executive director of the YWCA Jamestown.

As a national organization, the YWCA USA has a longstanding commitment to racial justice and civil rights, with an intersectional mission to eliminate racism and empower women. On a local level, the YWCA of Jamestown offers seven programs that seek to support and empower women, and of which are now complemented by the new Social Justice and Race Equity Program.

Alize Scott has been named as the social justice and race equity director to lead the new program. Born and raised in Jamestown, Scott has been employed with the YWCA of Jamestown for several years in the role as a comprehensive adolescent prevention educator. A graduate student at the University of Buffalo, Scott is working toward a masters degree in American Studies with a concentration in African American Studies and is currently teaching an inquiry course at Jamestown Community College titled The Black Experience.

“Alize brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this position, as an advocate of equity for all individuals in the community,” Gesing said. “She has the passion and commitment needed to do the work of justice, we are thrilled to have her leading this vital new program.”

For more information, visit www.ywcajamestown.com, visit the YWCA’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/YWCAJamestown or call 488-2237.