Reporter Volume 25, No.7 October 14, 1993

Nearly a dozen years ago, Ruth Bryant heard the local Y.W.C.A. was
planning to sponsor a racial justice symposium. She volunteered to
serve on the committee.
	This year, she's heading the local "YW's" committee to plan
its 125th birthday celebration in 1995.
	During its history, there've been lots of changes and even
more to celebrate!
	Two years ago, the national organization, which had been known
as the Y.W.C.A. or Young Women's Christian Association, removed the
punctuation marks and became the YWCA.
	Today's "YW" doesn't limit membership to a particular age
group, doesn't require religious affiliation and does welcome men and
boys.
	With a primary aim of eliminating racism, the YW focuses on
changing public policy, attitudes and laws which will enable all
people--not just women--to enjoy peace, justice, freedom and dignity.
	Bryant, a UB graduate and assistant to the dean in the School
of Architecture and Planning, is no stranger to "caring is sharing".
Her resume is replete with involvement in more than 20 civic and
community organizations over the past 15 years. Most touch the lives
of women and children.
	While the YW provides a range of services in the
community--including its well-known exercise and crafts
programs--Bryant is particularly proud of three others that may not be
as visible to potential donors.
	The transitional program for women without shelter who have
dependent children, provides a long-term home for as many as 13
mothers and 38 children in a mansion on North Street. Additional
housing is available in a four-unit apartment building and a four-unit
cottage, both renovated with help from Habitat for Humanity. There's
also permanent housing available in a rebuilt house for two families
with children.
	Bryant proudly notes that the YWCA is the largest licensed
provider of affordable before- and after-school care to 900 children
in 13 school districts.
	In May 1992, the YW opened its Child Care Center for children
ages six weeks through 5 years. A sliding fee scale is used to make
the program affordable for parents who work or are trying to augment
their education for the future. Those who work with the youngsters are
carefully screened and must have a degree in early childhood
education.
	But there are never enough financial resources to fund the
programs for all the families and youngsters who need them. Your SEFA
donation can help! 
--Mary Beth Spina