COVID's Impact on Society

Adrian Bracy, CEO of YWCA Metro St. Louis, along with Susan Kidder, CEO of Safe Connections, delivered an inspiring and compelling discussion on the heightened need for services during this time of COVID-19 and the current civil unrest.  Adrian talked about the YWCA’s “three (3) S’s,” Safety, Security and Stability of women which is supported through their domestic violence and sexual assault services, which aligns with Safe Connections efforts to reduce the impact and incidence of relationship violence and sexual assault.   Both non-profit entrepreneurs have a true partnership as they work to achieve their goals.  We heard from both leaders f how each of them have pivoted during this COVID crisis to support their clients, i.e. YWCA’s Rapid Rehousing staff stepped up to the plate and created housing space for 40 women who were running from their abusers and Safe Connections transitioned rapidly to support the 19% increase in calls received on the 24 x 7 Crisis Line as survivors were locked down during the quarantine with their abusers.   In addition, bringing awareness to racial equality was a common theme throughout this discussion.  Adrian shared their program, Witnessing Whiteness and her belief in educating yourself.  Susan concurred, “power is knowledge, put it into action; sit around the table and make it part of the family conversation.”   
 
If you were not able to attend the virtual event and would like to learn more about these inspiring leaders, their thoughts on the importance of education through programs like “Witnessing Whiteness” and how you might support their missions, please click this link to listen to the recorded event.