Strengthening Communities with KeyBank Foundation

At YWCA North Central Indiana, our work is rooted in supporting women as they rebuild, rediscover their strength, and create new paths forward. We are proud to share an investment that will strengthen that work in a meaningful way.

The KeyBank Foundation has awarded a $240,000 grant over three years to fully support our Strengthening Communities Initiative—a program focused on financial literacy and long-term stability for survivors of domestic violence and substance use.

Financial independence remains one of the most significant barriers many of our clients face. While safety is the first step, long-term stability is what allows individuals to move forward with confidence. This program is designed to help make that possible.

Walking Alongside Our Clients

The Strengthening Communities Initiative is a structured 10-week program that requires consistent commitment from participants. Throughout the course, individuals build practical skills such as budgeting, banking, and avoiding predatory lending, while also gaining tools to enter or re-enter the workforce.

As President & CEO Amy Hill shared:

“To see their success as we walk alongside of them. It is our clients that are taking the initiative and taking the time for themselves and investing in themselves to participate in these classes… to position themselves well to be successful in our community.”

This level of commitment—from both participants and staff—is what drives the program’s impact.

Care Beyond Crisis

YWCA North Central Indiana provides a continuum of services, including emergency shelter, counseling, and safety planning. The Strengthening Communities Initiative complements these services by addressing the financial challenges that often follow crisis situations.

By integrating financial education with supportive services, the program helps participants move beyond immediate safety toward sustained independence.

A Multi-Year Commitment to Impact

This three-year grant ensures program stability and continued access to consistent, high-quality instruction and support. It allows YWCA North Central Indiana to remain focused on program delivery and participant outcomes.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment between YWCA North Central Indiana and KeyBank Foundation to strengthening individuals, families, and communities through education and opportunity.

Looking Ahead

Through this investment, more individuals will have access to the tools, knowledge, and support needed to build lasting financial confidence and stability—creating stronger foundations for themselves and their families. YWCA North Central Indiana remains deeply committed to advancing programs that create meaningful, long-term impact across the communities we serve.

We are sincerely grateful for the partnership of the KeyBank Foundation and the dedication of local KeyBank advocates. Their support not only strengthens this program—it affirms a shared belief in the potential of every individual to move forward with confidence and opportunity.