PSU Magazine Fall 2000

• have taught similarly successful classes for the YWCA project in earlier years. Conducting the study has required stu– dents to become knowledgeable in 20th– century American history and sociology. Questions of religion, feminism, race, class, and politics among organized women have influenced their research. T;,e Young Women's Christian Association I 'is an organization with roots in 19th– century Anglo-American Protestantism, but during the 20th century it changed from a primarily evangelical organization to one of social service. In the early years, the founders ministered to the physical and spir– itual needs of young, wage-earning women The YWCA has alway! provided housing for single women in downtown Portland. whom they perceived were struggling to survive amidst urban, industrial life. Among the social and educational activities they sponsored were outdoor hikes called "tramps" and "Sunday at Home" programs that included a religious talk, music, games, and a free supper. Housing for women was a commitment of the organization from the start, and by 1919 the YWCA opened a residence home for working women. In the following decade the Portland organization expanded its mission to serve not just young, single working women, but high school and grade school girls as well. Like the national organization, the early Portland YWCA was committed to serving The community enjoys an exhibit and presentation on the YWCA from senior capstone students during Women's History Month in March 2000. FALL 2000 PSU MAGAZINE 13