Tax-Smart giving
Join a community of donors who are committed to a culture of empowerment, justice, and dignity for survivors of violence, poverty, and inequity.
There are many tax friendly ways to give that can align with your philanthropic passions and financial planning. We can help you meet your personal financial goals while making a long-lasting impact on our community.
Donor-Advised Funds
A donor-advised fund lets you easily recommend a grant to YWCA. This flexible giving option simplifies charitable donations and may provide immediate tax benefits.
Give non-cash Assets
You can donate stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or other securities directly to YWCA. This type of gift may allow you to avoid capital gains taxes while maximizing the impact of your donation.
Give From your IRA
If you are 70½ or older, you can donate directly from your IRA to YWCA. This gift counts toward your required minimum distribution and may reduce your taxable income.
Gift from your Will
Including YWCA in your will or estate plan creates a lasting legacy of support. Planned gifts ensure future generations of survivors have access to safe housing and vital resources.
Donate Cryptocurrency
Donating cryptocurrency is a simple, secure way to give. By contributing digital assets like Bitcoin or Ethereum, you can support survivors while potentially receiving tax advantages for your gift.
Desginate a Beneficiary
Naming YWCA as a beneficiary of your retirement plan, life insurance policy, or investment account is a simple way to make a meaningful gift that costs you nothing today.
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Long-Term Program Volunteer
Work directly with our program participants through roles like supporting domestic violence survivors, offering legal advocacy, or providing emotional support to sexual assault victims. Please complete this additional application for volunteers working directly with program participants. Comprehensive training provided.
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Corporate & Group Volunteer
Make a difference as a group with short-term activities such as special projects, facility maintenance, or helping with our Holiday Shop.
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Event Volunteer
Volunteer for one-time events like our annual Shine Gala on March 21, 2026, assisting with planning, logistics, and attendee engagement.
Email Claudia Sandoval directly to volunteer for events.
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Board & Committee Volunteer
Serve as an advisor on our Board of Directors or committees, like fundraising, public policy or finance. We have many opportunities to serve as advisors and community liaisons.
Frequently Asked Questions
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To volunteer with us, you must complete an application, pass a phone screening, and attend an interview to ensure a good fit. Additionally, we require three professional references (non-relatives/partners) and a criminal background check.
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Start by submitting your application through our website. Once received, a member of our team will contact you for a phone screening followed by an in-person or virtual interview, depending on the role and current protocols.
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All volunteers undergo core training sessions which must be completed within the first six months. Additional program-specific training may be required, especially for roles involving direct service. For example, SafeChoice volunteers must complete 40 hours of training, including live and self-study sessions.
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Yes, we strive to accommodate various schedules and offer different roles that fit both short-term and long-term availability. We'll work with you to find a volunteer role and schedule of service that matches your availability.
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The time commitment varies by role. Some positions, like event volunteering, may involve only a few hours for a single event, whereas others like our SafeChoice program require a more substantial commitment due to the extensive training and sensitivity of the work.
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Volunteers receive ongoing support from their program directors and fellow team members. Regular meetings, additional training, and direct contact with program staff ensure you are well-supported throughout your volunteer experience.
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Our volunteers play a critical role in providing essential services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. From direct support roles to operational assistance, each volunteer helps us fulfill our mission to provide safety, support, and empowerment to those we serve.
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There are many ways to support our work beyond traditional volunteering. Consider participating in one-time events, making a gift, or advocating for our mission in your community.
Volunteering With Impact
Hear from our volunteers about the difference they are making:
“I've been volunteering on the hotline since 2018, and I love it! It's amazing working with all the wonderful advocates at the shelter and being part of this important work!”
— Kate
“I reached out to YWCA in the hope of finding a meaningful project for my faith community. The project work with their domestic violence shelter was deeply impactful. We are so grateful for YWCA’s presence in our community.”
— Becky
“I feel like I’m part of something bigger, making a real difference in our community. YWCA’s mission aligns perfectly with my values, and volunteering with them leaves me more inspired."