The YWCA Central Indiana is set to host its annual signature fundraiser, Put Yourself in Her HEELS – a powerful event that embodies the spirit of advocacy and support for women and children in vulnerable situations. The event, which will take place on October 17 at the downtown Muncie Convention Center, originated in 2013. It brings together Muncie community members to raise awareness and funds for the vital services the YWCA provides.
A Tradition of Advocacy and Support
Some might recall the event’s early days when it featured male community leaders donning high heels – a symbolic gesture that emphasized walking in the shoes of women who face challenges such as domestic violence, homelessness, and other forms of discrimination and hardship. Over the years the event has evolved to be more inclusive and intentional in its message. Still, the core mission remains the same: to Help, Encourage, Empower, Lift and Support (HEELS) women and children in the Muncie community. Put Yourself in Her HEELS is more than just a fundraiser – it’s a statement.
WaTasha Barnes Griffin, chief executive officer of YWCA Central Indiana, highlights the significance of this event, noting that it serves as both a fundraiser and a vital awareness campaign.
“They say you can’t understand another person’s experience unless you’ve walked in their shoes,” Griffin says. “It’s so true. I want people to step up, join us and walk alongside us in this mission.”
Barnes wears heels daily as a powerful symbol of the YWCA’s mission, making them a walking reminder of her dedication. For her, these heels have become like a mascot of sorts for this local chapter.
The YWCA’s Mission and Services
The YWCA Central Indiana has been an essential part of the Muncie community for over a century. It is dedicated to fighting for racial and social justice, empowering women economically, and promoting women’s health and safety. Through its comprehensive programs, the YWCA provides critical services to women and children, particularly those fleeing from abusive situations or struggling with homelessness. The YWCA is also one of the few organizations that serve male children up to age 17 – most only go to 8 years of age – to help families stay intact.
One of the YWCA’s flagship programs is its emergency shelter, which offers a safe haven for women and children escaping domestic violence. The shelter provides immediate safety and access to counseling, legal advocacy and long-term housing solutions. Additionally, the YWCA offers transitional housing for women who need time and support to rebuild their lives after leaving the shelter.
In recent years, the YWCA has expanded its outreach efforts to address the root causes of homelessness and domestic violence. This includes educational programs aimed at preventing domestic violence before it starts, as well as job training and financial literacy courses to help women achieve economic independence.
Fundraising Goals and Impact
The funds raised from Put Yourself in Her HEELS are essential to sustaining and expanding these vital services. Last year the event raised nearly $80,000, which went directly toward maintaining the emergency shelter’s aging building and funding initiatives aimed at preventing homelessness among women and children in Delaware County.
This year the YWCA hopes to surpass that amount, with proceeds earmarked for expanding its transitional housing program and enhancing its educational services. The goal is to provide not just a temporary solution, but long-term support that empowers women to break the cycle of poverty and abuse.
Griffin emphasizes that the need for these services has never been greater. In 2023, 21 staff members and more than 280 volunteers assisted 687 women and children in the community. This included providing emergency shelter using the COTS program (complimentary overnight temporary shelter stay), hygiene products like shampoo and deodorant, and other services to assist families in moving from crisis to stability.
“We’ve seen an increase in the number of women and children seeking help,” Griffin says. “Our services are a lifeline for them. Every dollar we raise goes toward helping these women and children find safety and stability.”
How to Get Involved
Community involvement is crucial to the success of the YWCA’s mission. Griffin encourages local businesses, organizations and individuals to participate in the fundraiser, whether by sponsoring the event, making a donation, or simply attending and showing support.
Put Yourself in Her HEELS is more than just a fun and engaging event; it’s an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.
“When we come together as a community, we can create real change,” Griffin says. “We can help women and children not just survive, but thrive.”
For more information about the YWCA Central Indiana and how to participate in the Put Yourself in Her HEELS fundraiser, visit ywcacentralindiana.org, or contact the YWCA directly at 765-284-3345.
