Empowering Communities: The Women’s Live and Learn Center – A Model for Economic Development and Supportive Housing

PROGRAM INFORMATION:

Speakers:

Francesca Rattray

CEO, YWCA San Antonio

Patricia Santa Cruz

Field Director, Grow America

Mary Bartlett, AIA

Partner, Marmon Mok

Moderator:

Pegy Brimhal

Principal, Figurd Development

Program Overview:

Join us on February 11, 2025, for an inspiring lunch program featuring the YWCA San Antonio and Grow America as they anchor a discussion on transformative economic development and community-vested support facilities. This session will highlight the recently opened Women’s Live and Learn Center, an innovative adaptive reuse project located on San Antonio’s Westside.

The Center, housed in the former Sisters of Providence Convent, represents YWCA San Antonio’s first venture into housing development. It provides a supportive and affordable living environment for single women ages 18-25 at risk of homelessness or aging out of the foster care system. With an emphasis on trauma-informed care, workforce training, higher education navigation, health and wellness, early childhood education, and financial literacy, the Center serves as a beacon of hope and opportunity.

Attendees will learn about the $13 million adaptive reuse and new construction project, which includes:

• Phase One: Renovation of 30 residential units with private bathrooms and shared living spaces in the former convent.
• Phase Two: Construction of a state-of-the-art Early Childhood Education facility and the new YWCA San Antonio Administrative Office.

Discover how this groundbreaking initiative is transforming lives and creating pathways to stability, independence, and success for women and their families. Whether you’re interested in economic development, supportive housing, or community-centered projects, this program will provide valuable insights and inspiration.

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the intersection of innovation, community investment, and economic empowerment.

AGENDA: