The Chair of the Board of Directors of the YWCA St. Paul narrates a story about his volunteer approach

Youssef Naddam / Unsplash

ST. PAUL, MN - The Young Women's Christian Association, or YWCA, in St. Paul, presents a story about Yohuru Williams' approach to volunteer work that exemplifies Maya Angelou's adage, "To those who are given much, much is expected."

Dr. Yohuru Williams, the current chair of the YWCA St. Paul's Board of Directors, is a historian by training and lends that perspective to his voluntary work. "We can view everything through a historical lens and apply that to our understanding of what the future might hold. For example, YW's history of being at the forefront of tackling justice issues for women proves that by uplifting one person, we can empower them. As a volunteer, I'm looking for ways to offer support that enables YWCA St. Paul to continue that work." He stated.

Yohuru is a professor and the founding director of the University of St. Thomas's Racial Justice Initiative. He has been drawn to groups with a goal throughout his life.

YW's incredible housing efforts truly touched him. "Stable housing really is the 'foundation' and by providing this critical service, YW gives people the needed stability to move forward and address other needs."

A sense of gratitude for the benefits he has enjoyed in life pervades his voluntary work. Yohuru believes he is called to contribute to society to make it more egalitarian and just. He thinks he owes it to others to repay the many benefits he has received.

"We may be architects or builders, each bringing different skills to the job, yet we all unite around ensuring the work is reflective of the community and authentic to our mission."

While Yohuru is a historian at heart, he considers his post as Board Chair as an opportunity to assist the organization in navigating its destiny.

"The reason we've been around since 1907 is that we understand how to respond to changing community needs. We need to continue to be ready to pivot and reimagine our world. We have to constantly think about our innovation opportunities and how to amplify our work in this community." Yohuru remarked.

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