Financial Crisis: YWCA Cutting Costs To Continue Programs

PEORIA-Koralia Norton says YWCA'S warm water pool gives her the therapy she needs to stay healthy.

"I've worked for seven years at Richwoods and never took one sick day, and I think a lot of it was due to the pool,” said Norton.

That's why this high school teacher, along with other community members hit the water every day.

"Just being able to come and relax, and your health really is so important I mean that's preventative,” explained Norton.

But if the YWCA can't pull funds together, the pool, along with their childcare programs and housing services could be cut.

According to YWCA Board Chair Kath Conver, β€œWe're analyzing every part of our business to make sure that we're running as efficiently as possible and cutting costs where we can.  And so, we're continuing to struggle, but we're hopeful."

Pool patrons, young and old enjoy the one of a kind warm water experience and don't want to see it go.

Eight year old Haley Stratton enjoys spending time with her friend Grace at the pool.

"I would be kind of disappointed, because it's a great pool and I like it a lot,” said Stratton.

Her friend, nine year old Grace Coyle agrees.

"It's a really fun way to just swim because the current and stuff and it just keeps you moving and it's very relaxing,” said Coyle.

Koralia Norton says if the YWCA were to lose pool funding, it would be a great loss to the community.

"There's only 3 turtle pools in the whole United States, and to lose it would be a tragedy basically.  I think most people don't even know it exists which is even sadder,” said Norton.

As the YWCA continues to offer services, they're appreciative of the funding the community has offered them.

"Challenges are great, but we have been very pleased that so many people have come to the support of the Y, and made generous gifts,” said Conver

Helping programs continue to help many people, like Koralia Norton, each day.

"I love it.  I see students, that come here, families, that come here, people, it’s awesome.”

If you would like to donate to the Peoria YWCA, click here.

Donations can also be mailed to:
YWCA Peoria
1013 Lake Street
Peoria, IL
61614