BY Mike Pettinella
For Video News Service
YWCA Executive Director Jamie Beedham-Rada has announced that the agency dedicated to domestic violence advocacy, housing services and various other community initiatives is moving to downtown Batavia.
Earlier this week, Beedham-Rada shared on the YWCA’s website its decision to leave its longtime home at 301 North St. On Saturday, Video News Service reached out to her seeking further comment.According to the website, the YWCA is touting a new chapter in its existence, guided by the theme of a $500,000 capital campaign theme, “Our Community. Our YWCA. Our Future. Hope Has a New Address.”
The campaign is hoping that 500 community members, whether individuals or businesses, contribute $1,000 over the life of the campaign through one-time or recurring gifts.“This move is about investing in our future,” Jamie Beedham-Rada wrote. “For years, our community has stood beside us as we supported survivors of domestic violence, provided food to families, helped individuals secure safe housing, and connected people with life-changing resources. Now, together, we’re creating a permanent home where all of those services—and so much more—can continue to grow.”
Per the website, the new location at 85 Main St., most recently occupied by House of Bounce, has been thoughtfully designed to meet the evolving needs of Genesee County while creating a welcoming destination where community members can gather, learn, heal, and belong.”
Building owner Ken Mistler said he expects the YWCA to begin operations there on Sept. 1.
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[From a YWCA provided press release]
“This move is about investing in our future,” said Jamie Beedham-Rada, Executive Director of the YWCA of Genesee County. “For years, our community has stood beside us as we supported survivors of domestic violence, provided food to families, helped individuals secure safe housing, and connected people with life-changing resources. Now, together, we’re creating a permanent home where all of those services—and so much more—can continue to grow.”
Board Chair Georganne Elia believes the new location represents an important investment in both the organization and the future of downtown Batavia.
“I am beyond thrilled at this great news! This expansion and relocation to a central and visible location will make services more easily accessible to our community while giving the YWCA the place of prominence it has deserved for a long time. Additionally, and maybe selfishly, this will be a showpiece for all the amazing work being done at the YWCA. The proposed Play Café, expanded My Sister’s Closet, and space for private offices will bring some foot traffic to Downtown Batavia, and that alone will be wonderful!” said Board Chair Georganne Elia.
YWCA Board Member Anita Strollo also shared her excitement about the opportunities the new facility will create for families and the community.
“I am so excited about our move to the new location. This transition represents a significant milestone, as the expanded space will soon allow us to provide even more essential services to our community, including a Play Café and increased accessibility and visibility for My Sister’s Closet. There will also be a more efficient pick-up system for My Sister’s Pantry,” said Anita Strollo, YWCA Board Member.
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The new YWCA Community Center will include the following:
-A welcoming community reception area
-Expanded domestic violence advocacy and survivor support services
-Private counseling and therapy offices
-Rapid Re-Housing and housing stability services
-Case management offices
-My Sister’s Pantry
-My Sister’s Closet
-A Family Play Café designed for caregivers and children to connect through play
-A flexible community room for trainings, workshops, celebrations, support groups, and neighborhood events
-Volunteer and community engagement opportunities
-Expanded space for partnerships with local agencies
“Our Community. Our YWCA. Our Future. isn’t just a campaign slogan,” Beedham-Rada added. “It’s an invitation. Every donor, volunteer, business, and neighbor has helped make this possible. Together, we’re building more than a building—we’re building hope.”
Additional details about grand opening celebrations, community tours, volunteer opportunities, and ways to support the campaign will be announced in the coming months.
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