About Our Events

Signature Event
Date: January 15, 2026
Time: 7:30 AM - 9:30 AM
Location: Goei Center

Vision Forward brings together community leaders, changemakers, advocates, and partners who are committed to advancing social justice and strengthening the systems that support survivors and families in our region.

Deb O’Leary, CEO, will share a State of the Organization address that highlights recent achievements, current priorities, and the strategic direction guiding the YWCA’s next phase of work. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how the YWCA West Central Michigan continues to expand access to safety, healing, and opportunity while confronting the barriers that stand in the way of equity.

Signature Event
Date: April 28, 2026
Time: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Location: Frederik Meijer Gardens

Arise! is the YWCA’s annual spring luncheon that creates space to examine the issues that continue to shape our community and the work that calls each of us to act, while acknowledging progress and moving forward together toward a more just and inclusive future.

Signature Event
Date: June 6, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM
Location: LMCU Ballpark

Annual traditional event hosted by the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan-Western Region to engage women lawyers and area judges in a friendly and fiercely competitive softball game. All proceeds go to the YWCA as well as amplifies our visibility in the community to reach as many survivors as possible; demonstrating that legal professionals stand against violence.

Signature Event
Date: September 17, 2026
Time: 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Location: Goei Center

The Iron Chef Strolling Gala is a culinary competition and community celebration that brings together local chefs, community leaders, and YWCA supporters for an unforgettable evening. Guests enjoy tastings, live entertainment, and the thrill of friendly competition as they vote for the next Iron Chef YWCA. The event raises essential funds to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence, creating a space where creativity, purpose, and community come together.

Date: October 15, 2026
Time: TBD
Location: YWCA West Central Michigan

A community gathering that honors survivors, raises awareness, and mobilizes support to end domestic and sexual violence, all while raising critical funds for YWCA programs that help individuals heal and thrive.

Advocacy & Resource Services
Date: Every Tuesday (except for holidays)
Time: 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Find validation, peer support, and healing in a safe, confidential space with others who understand. This group meets in-person on the the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month, and virtually on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays. 5th Tuesdays will default to meeting virtually. Contact our Advocacy and Resource Services office at 616.426.3727 or reach out through our chat.

Advocacy & Resource Services
Date: Every Wednesday (except for holidays)
Time: 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Find validation, peer support, and healing in a safe, confidential space with others who understand. This group meets virtually on the the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month, and in-person on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays. 5th Wednesdays will default to meeting virtually. Contact our Advocacy and Resource Services office at 616.426.3727 or reach out through our chat.