The YWCA is an incredibly important center in Asheville that has helped many people enrich their lives, meet new people, and has helped create a sense of connected community. The YWCA’s motto is to eliminate racism and to empower women, but they also promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. The YW has taught many classes throughout its time here in Asheville, not all of which have been fitness related. Summer Camps, belly dancing classes, and finances classes have all been provided by the YWCA throughout the years. The YWCA offers a fitness and health center, offering several different fitness classes as well as a pool. The YWCA also offers early childhood care, allowing the newer generation to be a part of the YW’s mission.

The YWCA celebrates being in Asheville 110 years. As a part of the celebration, members of the YWCA were interviewed by students at UNC Asheville to share their memories of the establishment. One of those interviewed was Dianne Logan, who first came to the YWCA as a youth in the 1960s. Though her life in Asheville has changed, her involvement with the YW has not. She has been actively involved with the YW ever since.

Dianne was born and raised in Asheville. She went to Asheville High and worked as a dispatcher for Miller’s Cab Service.  Later, she had served for five years in the military, acting as a nurse. She had first starting coming to the YWCA in the 1960s. One specific skill she picked up during her many visits to the YWCA was sewing. She fondly remembered making a plaid jumpsuit at the YW.  She also attended many dances held at the YW. The YW was also helpful to her academically, she received assistance with her homework assignments and other class work she might have had. Dianne fondly reminisced about the dances that were held at the YWCA. Being the social melting pot it was meant to be, dances were held at the YWCA frequently, and many people went to them. Dianne was also married at the YWCA in 1975. Today, Dianne is still actively involved with the YW. She is a Foster Grandmother in the childcare program there. She also works out five days a week.

 

Below is a brief timeline of Dianne’s involvement with the YWCA.

Click here to view the interview with Dianne Logan.