YWCA of Asheville Addresses Financial Challenges and Announces Temporary Pool Closure for Repairs
The YWCA of Asheville is facing significant financial challenges and must make some difficult decisions to ensure the long-term sustainability of our programs and services. Due to a confluence of broader economic pressures, including the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation, shifts in funding priorities, and the urgent need for facility repairs, we are taking critical steps to address our financial situation.
Our organization has been dealing with a large deficit across our programming. To navigate the challenges associated with our $650k deficit going into the following fiscal year, we have reassessed our financial strategies, continue to explore alternative funding sources and optimize our operations. We remain steadfast in our commitment to our mission and the community we serve, and we are asking for your support to help us overcome these obstacles.
Additionally, we must temporarily close our historic pool beginning June 28, 2024. This decision is necessary to address critical maintenance needs, including repairs to our pool ceiling, to ensure the safety and longevity of our beloved facility. The closure coincides with the retirement of Kitty Schmidt, our esteemed Aquatics Director, who has dedicated 25 years of service to fostering swim equity and accessibility in our community.
“The YWCA pool has been a pillar of our community, providing vital swimming education and recreational opportunities to all, regardless of financial or physical barriers,” said Diana Sierra, CEO of the YWCA of Asheville. “We understand the significant impact this closure will have, and we are committed to reopening a stronger facility. This temporary pause is necessary to make critical repairs and secure the future of our aquatics program. This closure also comes with a celebration of our esteemed aquatic instructor, Kitty Schmidt’s retirement, who has dedicated 25 years to swim equity in our community, and her legacy shows.”
During this closure, we will focus on fundraising efforts to support the pool’s necessary repairs, and we invite community members to join us in this endeavor to maintain this vital resource for generations to come.
Ways to Support the YWCA of Asheville:
Make a Donation: Every contribution, no matter the amount, makes a difference. Visit ywcaofasheville.org/donate today to contribute.
Spread the Word: Share our story with your friends, family, and colleagues and encourage them to support our cause.
Learn About Our Work: Attend a YW Empower Hour to learn more about the work we do and how you can get involved.
We also will be celebrating Kitty Schmidt’s remarkable impact on our community. Join us for her retirement send-off celebration at the YWCA from 4-6 pm on Friday, June 21, 2024.
About YWCA of Asheville: Established in 1907, the YWCA of Asheville is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, nurturing children, and promoting health. With over 117 years of service, the YWCA serves almost 3,000 community members annually, focusing on advancing racial justice, empowering women, promoting health, and nurturing children.
For more information on how to support us, please visit our website at ywcaofasheville.org or contact us at advancement@ywcaofasheville.org.
Thank you for standing with us in our time of need. Together, we will overcome these challenges and continue to make a meaningful impact in our community.
Diana Sierra, LCSW
CEO, YWCA of Asheville
