Young Women's Christian Association in Oil City

Floor Speech

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Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Young Women's Christian Association of Oil City, in Venango County, or more widely known as the YWCA, as they celebrate their 100th anniversary.

In 1922, Olive Bailey Shaffer proposed the idea of establishing a YWCA in Oil City. Two years later, on June 24, 1924, with 450 charter members enrolled, the Oil City YWCA was founded.

To sustain the organization and their mission, members of the YWCA raised more than $10,000 in their first year. Following these efforts, the Oil City YWCA received their national charter on December 24, 1924.

Over the years, the YWCA continued to grow and establish strong roots in the community. What started as humble beginnings led the chapter to the Samuel L. Maxwell Home at 109 Central Avenue, which remains the current home.

This location continued to grow with the chapter with multiple renovations and additions over the 100 years. The group now uses this location to host programming and advocacy to generate institutional change in three key areas--racial justice and civil rights, empowerment and economic advancement, and health and safety of women and girls.

Today, the YWCA stands true to their mission to eliminate racism, empower women, stand for social justice, help families, and strengthen communities.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the women of the Young Women's Christian Association of Oil City on this monumental anniversary. May they continue their good work for the next 100 years.

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