Editor:
On Tuesday, June 28, the YWCA Santa Monica/Westside held a farewell open house to say a heartfelt goodbye and thank you to the members of our community. It was obvious from the moving testimonials that we have made a difference in the lives of many people, and they have made a difference in ours. We are truly sad that we could not continue along the path that has sustained us for the past 90 years. But times change, people and circumstances change, and we finally had to acknowledge that we needed to change as well.
Our board of directors would like to thank all of our loyal and committed supporters, members and staff for making the YWCA such a special place in this community for so long. We are grateful that many of our programs and participants have already found new homes.
Hopefully, although it will be gone, the YWCA will not soon be forgotten by the women, girls, and families who were helped by its mission of empowerment. Their achievements will be its lasting legacy.
Anne-Marie Spataru
President, Board of Directors
YWCA Santa Monica / Westside
