Events
At YWCA McLean County, events are more than dates on a calendar. They’re invitations to show up for equity, safety, opportunity, and connection in our community. From large-scale fundraisers to intimate conversations and immersive learning experiences, each gathering reflects our mission and fuels the programs that empower women, eliminate racism, and strengthen McLean County.
Explore what’s coming up and find your place at the table.
Circle
- Thursday, May 14, 2026
- ISU Brown Ballroom
Circle is our signature annual luncheon and one of the most powerful afternoons of the year. Community members gather to celebrate impact, elevate survivor voices, and invest in programs that move McLean County forward. Through storytelling, recognition, and collective generosity, Circle reminds us that progress happens when we stand together — and that hope is sustained by action.
Sexual Assault Awareness Month
- April
Each April, YWCA McLean County leads local efforts in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Through awareness events, community partnerships, prevention education, and visible campaigns like the Teal Chair Project, we stand alongside survivors and commit to building a safer, more informed community. SAAM is both a call to action and a reminder: prevention, accountability, and healing are shared responsibilities.
Trivia Night
- October 2026
- YWCA McLean County
Trivia Night is community connection with a competitive edge. Teams come together for an evening of laughs, brainpower, and purpose — all while raising critical funds for YWCA programming. It’s high energy, mission-driven, and proof that showing up for equity and opportunity can also be a whole lot of fun.
Community Simulations
- Upon Request
Our immersive Poverty and Reentry Simulations, offered through Mission & Equity Consulting, challenge participants to confront the real-world barriers many of our neighbors face. In just a few hours, participants navigate systems related to housing, employment, supervision, transportation, childcare, and basic survival. These experiences build empathy, deepen understanding, and spark meaningful dialogue — equipping organizations, leaders, and community members to make more informed and compassionate decisions.
Stirring Conversation
- Quarterly
- YWCA McLean County
Inspired by YWCA McLean County’s early Tea Room gatherings — where women convened to discuss ideas and issues shaping their lives — Stirring Conversation is our quarterly coffee meet-and-greet designed for meaningful connection. Held in a relaxed setting, this informal gathering invites community members to engage in thoughtful dialogue about timely topics impacting our mission and our neighbors. It’s approachable, welcoming, and rooted in the belief that conversation can move communities forward.
Women of Distinction
- Retired Program
For more than three decades, Women of Distinction honored local women whose leadership and service strengthened McLean County and advanced equity. Established in 1990 and concluded in 2022, the event celebrated changemakers while raising vital support for YWCA programs.
Though the event has been sunsetted, its legacy continues through the WINGS Scholarship — created and financially sustained by past honorees — now carried forward as part of our annual Circle Luncheon, continuing to invest in women’s education and economic opportunity.