YWCA of the City of New York

The YWCA of the City of New York’s Women’s Empowerment Network (WEN) provides women with the information and resources needed to inspire hope and establish a sense of safety for their families.

Through an extensive package of program offerings, low to moderate income families are provided with:

• Advocacy
• Benefits counseling
• Computer training
• Displaced homemaker program
• Free or low-cost child care
• Legal counseling
• Workforce development

WEN is operated at the YWCA‑NYC Family Resource Center (FRC), located at 500 West 56th Street between 10th & 11th Avenues in Clinton. Look for the gated courtyard, next to John Jay College.

See how WEN has helped women to build confidence and gain employment by watching a testimonial video from a real WEN client.

Services & Schedules

Benefits Counseling

Do you need clarification regarding eligibility for public funds or assistance applying for benefits? Give us a call to schedule an appointment with our benefits counselor.

Computer Classes

Our six-week programs offer instruction and self-guided tutorials on typing skills, internet research and Microsoft Office programs. Classes are offered at beginner, intermediate and advanced skill levels.

Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. (6 weeks)

Displaced Homemaker Program

The Displaced Homemaker Program consists of two parts. In the first section, a comprehensive hands-on computer training class, students learn Microsoft Office applications, excellent work habits and the organizational skills necessary to run an efficient office. In the second section, focusing on one’s career development, participants discuss their challenges and concerns about the job search process. In a comfortable and confidential setting, the participant and employment counselor develop a plan for achieving career goals. Resume development, cover letter writing, and successful interviewing strategies are some of the basic tools that are developed through individual assistance.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements: New York State resident, 21 years of age, High School Diploma or GED, Displaced Homemaker and resume.

Section 1: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Section 2: Tuesday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Thursday 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Legal Clinic

Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP provides free one-on-one consultations to address legal housing matters. Attorneys are available to answer questions on housing, advise you of your rights and advocate on your behalf. Matters requiring further help will be referred to pro bono attorneys for representation. Participants with housing-related questions should bring all related paperwork, including identification, current address, personal contact information, and lease agreements.

Every last Wednesday of the month, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Select Partners

Job Assistance

• One Stop Career Center: Job Referrals, Placement Assistance
• Seedco: Job Referrals, Benefits Screening
• Small Business Solutions: Job Placement Services

Mentoring

• American Express
• Barclays Capital
• King & Spalding
• KPMG
• Weil, Gotshal & Manges

Support & Referrals

ACES: Advocacy Counseling and Entitlement Services Support

Bottomless Closet: Clothing Assistance

Dress for Success: Clothes Closet

NYC Department of Education: GED & ESL Classes

NYS VESID: Services for Individuals with Special Needs

Volunteer Faculty

• Citibank: Financial Literacy Workshops
• Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP: Free Legal Clinic
• NYC Commission on Human Rights:  Workshops on discrimination, sexual harassment, housing, and employment
• TV Guide: Communications Training
• School of Visual Arts: Art Therapy
• NYC Department of Education: GED and ESL classes
• ACES: Support Service Referrals

The Women’s Empowerment Network’s success is primarily dependent upon the generous contributions from individual supporters. Please consider making a donation.