RACINE, WI -- In order to focus more on the YWCA’s mission to eliminate racism and empower women, the YWCA in Racine, WI, was closed earlier this month. The move takes the organization out of the health and fitness arena, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
The YW’s membership has consistently been falling, according to the newspaper. In 2000, it had 1,157 members. In 2007, that number was 400.
The YW’s health promotional program had been losing money for many years, and there had been competition from for-profit fitness centers and the YMCA, Debbi Embry, former CEO of the YWCA of Racine, told the newspaper. Embry was let go Dec. 6 due to financial concerns. The organization is currently looking for a volunteer CEO.
The YWCA of the USA did not immediately respond to requests for further information.