We have created “The Benni Fund” in memory of Benni McMullen, who served as our Executive Director for 39 years. This fund will offer aid to single mothers, living in the areas we serve (Hancock County, Eastern Washington County, and Western Waldo County). During her tenure at YWCA MDI, Benni was best known for her compassionate offer of “a leg up” to many, many women. We think she would be pleased to know that gifts in her memory will make life better for women and their children during this difficult time.

The Ruth Hodgkins Scholarship was created as a resource for women pursuing a non-traditional course of study, offering financial assistance to women whose goals may not include a college degree.

Some examples of how this financial assistance has been used include the following:

-To learn a Trade

-To take courses and gain skills in the medical field as an LPN or Medical Assistant

-For Early Education training to start a childcare business

-To pursue a degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling

-Courses on Grief Counseling – Death & Dying

-To take courses in IT Training

The Sarah B. Flynn Scholarship was created to provide leadership training for women and girls.

Some examples of how this financial assistance has been used include the following:

-Courses on leadership training

-Racial equity workshops to become a community leader working towards racial justice

-Management skills training

-Courses on minimizing gender bias in the workplace.