A Note From Our Board Chair

YWCA Greater Cleveland Announces Planned Leadership Transition

The Board of Directors of YWCA Greater Cleveland announces that President and CEO Helen Forbes Fields will retire effective March 19, 2027.

Since joining YWCA Greater Cleveland, Helen has provided exceptional leadership in advancing the organization's mission of eliminating racism and empowering women. Under her guidance, the organization has strengthened its infrastructure, enhanced programs and services, invested in staff development, and deepened relationships with corporate, philanthropic, and community partners.

"YWCA Greater Cleveland is stronger because of Helen's leadership, vision, and commitment to our mission," said Board Chair Renee Richard. "Her impact will be felt for years to come through the organization she has helped strengthen and the countless lives touched by our work."

To ensure a thoughtful and seamless transition, the Board of Directors will partner with an executive search firm to identify the organization's next President and CEO.

YWCA Greater Cleveland remains firmly committed to its mission and strategic priorities. The organization will continue serving women, children, and families across our community while advancing opportunities for equity, economic stability, leadership development, and support services.

As we look toward the future, we also celebrate Helen's extraordinary contributions and the lasting impact of her leadership on YWCA Greater Cleveland and the community we serve.

We are grateful for the continued support of our partners, donors, volunteers, and advocates, and we look forward to continuing this important work together.

What’s Happening at YWCA

YWCA Greater Cleveland is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

Founded in 1868, YWCA Greater Cleveland is the seventh-oldest YWCA in the nation and one of the city’s most enduring nonprofit organizations. For over 150 years, we’ve been a trusted advocate and support system for individuals facing homelessness, trauma, and deep-rooted barriers to stability.

Support from our donors and program partners EMPOWERS our work | our participants | our community.

We provide critical services—including affordable housing, mental health support, crisis intervention, workforce development, and housing stability programs. Every contribution directly empowers individuals to rebuild their lives and take steps toward lasting independence.

When you give to YWCA Greater Cleveland, you’re not just donating—you’re investing in dignity, equity, and the power of second chances.

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What We Do ↘

YWCA Greater Cleveland provides direct services, empowerment programming, leadership on public policy, and support for individuals and families in need while working to eliminate barriers to opportunities.

Build Community

Empower

End Homelessness

Early Learning Center
The Early Learning Center (ELC) is a Gold Star-rated, specialized, two-generational Pre-K program serving families with young children ages 3-5. Many have experienced homelessness or other significant challenges. We focus on the social/emotional needs of our students and their families. Transportation and financial assistance might be available

Independence Place & NIA
Independence Place & NIA (Nurturing Independence and Aspirations), is a highly personalized, participant-centered model of supportive services and case management for current and past participants of YWCA’s programs. It is  23-unit permanent supportive housing program for young adults ages 18-24 who have experienced homelessness & other challenges.

Norma Herr Women's Center 
Norma Herr is Cleveland’s only low-barrier emergency shelter for women ages 18-80. We serve an average of 170 women each night. 

Cogswell Hall 
Cogswell Hall supports adults who have experienced homelessness by offering permanent supportive housing, specialized care, and community. 

Our Impact ↘

YWCA Greater Cleveland provides direct services, empowerment programming, leadership on public policy, and support for individuals and families in need while working to eliminate barriers to opportunities.

100%

graduation rate from Early Learning Center

250+

Women of Achievement honorees

6,782+

people served at Norma Herr Women's Center

130+

youth served at Independence Place

53

residents housed by Cogswell Hall

Support our mission ↘

$25

Can help provide students with school supplies.

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$50

Can help provide supportive services.

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$100

Can help youth transition to stable housing.

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Other

Can help build community and promote dignity for all.

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