YWCA seeking support of Adopt-A-Room

VW independent staff/submitted information

The YWCA of Van Wert County is inviting community members, businesses, and organizations to support survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and sexual assault and their families through its Adopt-A-Room program.

Launched in 2023, the Adopt-A-Room program gives donors the opportunity to sponsor a living space within the YWCA’s Survivor Services residential facility for 12 months. Since its inception, the program has helped fund essential upgrades to resident spaces while also supporting utilities and operating expenses, ensuring a safe, secure, and comfortable environment where residents can focus on healing and rebuilding their lives.

Just a few of the facility improvements made possible since 2023 include elevator maintenance and repairs to improve accessibility for survivors with disabilities, radiator repairs in resident rooms, replacement of water heaters, painting bedrooms and updating shared living spaces, installation of coded keyless entry systems on all bedroom doors, enhanced exterior lighting for greater security, and the addition of HD security cameras.

“These and other improvements made possible through the Adopt-A-Room program have strengthened resident safety, increased accessibility for survivors with disabilities, and helped us maintain comfortable, dignified living spaces for individuals and families as they recover from trauma,” said Julie Schaufelberger, YWCA Director of Outreach and Communication.

Through the Adopt-A-Room program, donors commit to a tax-deductible contribution of $1,000, which may be paid one time annually or through recurring installments of $84 monthly or $250 quarterly. In recognition of their support, sponsors receive a plaque displayed on a Survivor Services residential room or shared space, acknowledgment on social media, and recognition in the YWCA’s annual report, monthly newsletter, and website. Donors may also choose to remain anonymous.

“Recurring payment options offer donors an affordable way to make a lasting impact in the lives of survivors and their families living in our facility,” Schaufelberger said. “Collectively, these contributions help provide safety, stability, and the support survivors need.”

Annual donations may be paid with either a credit card or check, however, recurring payments must be paid via credit, debit or PayPal. Individuals interested in paying by check or PayPal should contact julies@ywcavanwertcounty.org. Credit and debit card payees can visit https://ywcavanwertcounty.betterworld.org/ to choose their payment plan of choice.

The YWCA is an agency of the United Way of Van Wert County and is partially funded by the Van Wert County Foundation.