YWCA of Greater Portland

YWCA of Greater Portland is a charitable organization with a mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

[3] The original Portland board consisted of women from prominent white families, including the Corbetts, Failings, Ladds, and Honeymans.

Joint fundraising with the Young Men’s Christian Association of Portland provided funds for the construction of a dedicated building in 1908.

[6] The YWCA's purpose to facilitate fellowship between all females was complicated by the religious requirements for membership in the organization and the barriers between different races caused further issues.

By 1920's, the Portland YWCA had a separate branch for African Americans located on the corner of North Williams and Tillamook Streets.

[9] In these spaces, the Williams Branch hosted clubs and classes for school age girls, including sewings, hat making, Bible studies, musical programs, and games.