A tumultuous time - Program Manager YWCA Employee Review

3.0
Jun 2, 2017
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

The YWCA Seattle|King|Snohomish has a fantastic mission: eliminating racism and empowering women. There are many people at all levels of the organization working really intentionally to do just that. There are amazing opportunities to work in the community and really make a positive impact on women and families. There is also a lot of opportunity for lateral movement, especially for front-line, direct service (entry-level) staff.

Cons

There is a lot of discord right now with the new CEO. She is making sweeping changes with little input from staff and almost no communication. Many long-term staff are being let go and it is a terrifying environment to survive in. People are hunkered down, afraid for their jobs, just waiting for the next shoe to drop. The leadership seems to be more externally focused, prioritizing relationships with donors and elected officials but sacrificing relationships with staff. Ultimately those who suffer are the low-income women of color we should be serving with high turn-over rates of staff.

Explore other reviews about YWCA

5.0
Jul 5, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great staff to work with and the students were a joy to be around.

Cons

Salary was too low for the position and expectations.

1.0
Jul 16, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Co workers were great and very respectful.

Cons

This organization's treatment of its staff did not reflect the values of the mission it promotes. During my time there, I experienced a management style that felt overly controlling and dehumanizing. Staff were frequently micromanaged to the point where even casual conversations with coworkers were discouraged. We were restricted in where we could go within the building,often received the silent treatment from management, and witnessed unprofessional gossip. The high turnover rate speaks for itself. In my experience, it was driven by ongoing staff mistreatment, ineffective leadership, and a culture where authority seemed to take priority over supporting employees. Although my experience was disappointing and often demoralizing, I did leave with valuable skills, meaningful friendships, and greater confidence in standing up for myself. I am grateful the organization gave me the opportunity to work there, but I sincerely hope its leadership takes time to reflect on how they treat employees who consistently go above and beyond their job responsibilities. An organization's mission should be reflected not only in the people it serves but also in the way it treats its own staff.

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