Our Programs

Financial Literary Asset 10 Programs

All of our free, community-based programming takes place at The W. Once a hidden gem that only participants knew about, the W is becoming widely known in the community as a leader in responsive, participant-led programming. In this space, YWCA Cambridge provides supportive, inclusive and participant-led programs for women, girls, and gender-diverse individuals.

All programs are geared toward the needs of participants, with a focus on gender-based violence prevention programming through topics such as health and wellness, bodily integrity, social activism, empowerment, STEM and STEM mentoring, pre-employment and employment upskilling.

two women in an office looking at a computer

In partnership with YWCA Canada

Dollars and Sense Project

In partnership with YWCA Canada, the Dollars & Sense Program aims to improve financial literacy for low-income women and gender-diverse people. The project weaves financial literacy and empowerment activities to address participants’ unique needs and support their economic uplift. This project is not only about imparting knowledge; it’s about fostering financial confidence and resilience within our community.

The Dollars and Sense project will deliver a suite of financial empowerment services, including: 

  • Financial education and one-on-one coaching or counselling
  • Tax filingassistanceand access to federal/provincial benefits 
  • Improved access to safe financial products
  • Savings and asset-building tools
  • Consumer protection education to prevent fraud and financial abuse

Dollars & Sense is offered out of YWCA Cambridge’s community space, The W, located at 20 Dickson St, unit 101. If you are interested in bringing this program to your community group or organization, would like to attend a program or workshop or would like to learn more about the Dollars & Sense project, email thew@ywcacambridge.ca.

Dollars & Sense is a four-year project funded in part by Prosper Canada and in part by Government of Canada.  

Prosper Canada Logo
Government of Canada social development partnerships program logo

Small Business Basics with YWCA Cambridge

Small Business Basics with YWCA Cambridge Central Library, 85 Queen St. N., Kitchener Every Thursday in June | 6:00–8:00 PM

Are you thinking about starting your own small business? Join YWCA Cambridge and Kitchener Public Library for a free, four‑week introductory series designed to help you build confidence, clarity, and a strong foundation for your entrepreneurial journey.

Program Schedule

June 4 – Understanding Your Business Idea Through a Financial Lens Explore what makes a business idea viable and learn how to evaluate it using simple financial tools.
June 11 – Business Structures and Registration Learn the differences between sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, and how to register your business in Ontario.
June 18 – Funding, Cash Flow and Startup Costs Understand what it takes to get started, manage early‑stage finances, and plan for sustainability.
June 25 – Pricing, Profitability and Taking the Next Step Build pricing strategies, explore profitability, and map out your next steps as a new entrepreneur.

Registration is free. Reserve your spot today: kpl.org/SignUp

Every Thursday in June
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Free

Fraud Prevention and Awareness Series

Multiple dates from June 15 to October 19
Multiple times
Free

Cambridge Public Library, Queen’s Square – 1 North Square, Cambridge Register: events.cambridgepl.ca

Join us for a free, community‑focused series designed to help you recognize, prevent, and respond to different types of fraud. Each session explores a specific scam, how it works, warning signs to watch for, and practical steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.  

Session Dates

June 15: Fraud Prevention and Awareness - Identity Fraud
July 13: Fraud Prevention and Awareness - Investment Scams
August 10: Fraud Prevention and Awareness - Romance Scams
September 21: Fraud Prevention and Awareness - Long‑Haul Scammers
October 19: Fraud Prevention & Support - What to do when things go wrong

Register on the Cambridge Public Library website.