Board
Abbie Cziok
she/her
Board President
We are fortunate to live in the Helena community.
This last year saw the return of our in-person Benefit Breakfast, where we were encouraged by women who have had their lives changed by YWCA. Members of the WINGS program continue to teach us about resilience, grace, and the importance of community. The Breakfast allowed us the opportunity to meet others in Helena who are also dedicated to making it a more supportive, welcoming place.
We’ve been able to watch the Caterpillars Clubhouse take on its greater potential, creating a space where kids can grow and learn with the assistance of trauma-informed support. Parents can address their daily responsibilities without worrying about the safety of their kids. The work of parents living at YWCA Helena and in our community are also supported by our Caterpillar Program, giving unmatched opportunities to create life-changing family bonds.
Even with these exciting developments, homelessness and the lack of availability of mental health care continue to be a growing problem, one that YWCA Helena remains committed to addressing. We invite you to partner with us and join our mission to help women and children in our community establish stable, fulfilling lives.
Becky Lawson
she/her
Building Committee
My Why:
I support the YWCA because I believe that everyone deserves a safe, comfortable, and foundational space to live, recover, and strive for a new beginning. The environment that a person is in affects goals, thoughts, and emotional well-being. With the staff provided such amazing services at the YWCA, my strength is in seeing how I can help with space that supports these services.
Melissa Schlichting
she/her
Governance and Nominations Committees
My Why:
YWCA’s services to Indigenous women and children are what originally drew me to the Y. More recently I am inspired to be on the Board by the innovative programs and services — especially Caterpillars Clubhouse’s therapeutic childcare.
Vanessa Nasset
she/her
Program Committee
My Why:
Growing up on a reservation and being an enrolled tribal member, I have seen firsthand the detrimental effects that addiction can play on the lives of women and children, needing to look no further than my immediate family. Further, as an educator who has spent the bulk of my career working in Title 1 schools, I have witnessed the impacts that unstable home lives have on the education of children. The mission of the YWCA is near and dear to my heart, on many levels.
Gayle Agostinelli
she/her
Resource Development Committee
My Why:
I was drawn to the YWCA initially because of family history - my Mom lived at the YWCA when she came to Montana from Iowa in the 1950's, then served on the Board after her retirement. As I've learned about the programs and good work of today's YWCA, I'm privileged to serve on the board and share my background in fundraising. The mission to serve women and children touches my heart.
Sam Offerdahl
she/her
Resource Development Committee
My Why:
YWCA Helena helps fill a critical need in our community for people who need it most. I serve because I believe in the YWCA Helena's mission at my core.
Zoe Barnard
she/her
Program and Finance Committees
My Why:
Homelessness and substance use disorder are public health issues that we must address locally and nationally. YWCA addresses needs in our community in an innovative way without losing sight of the bigger picture-the need for equity and inclusion.
Kim Feig
she/her
Executive and Program Committees
My Why:
The YWCA’s reach in this community extends well beyond the walls of its historic building as they not only advocate for individuals and families but they advocate within systems and structures for a better, more equitable Helena. Knowing that I can support the YWCA’s mission to empower women and promote justice and dignity for all, drives my work on the board.
Tess Zarnowski
she/her
Program Committee
My Why:
I serve on the YWCA board because I believe everyone deserves safe places to heal and grow. The YWCA Helena mission embodies values of empowerment and equity that I see as essential in our community.