Although the preponderance of attention is, understandably, on the upcoming elections, my wish is to focus on the Lewiston-Auburn YWCA, which is struggling to remain open and providing its many valuable services to the women and children of our community. It has been heartening to know that through the generous contributions of Del and Priscilla Gendron and the valiant efforts of the “Y” leadership, there is great hope that the doors may remain open.

I have a personal connection with the YWCA that I must share. At barely 19 years of age, I came to Lewiston to work, and the YWCA residence at 73 Pine St. became my first home-away-from-home. At a price befitting my $15-a-week salary, I was provided with a shared dormitory room and dining room privileges; but beyond those provisions, the YWCA embraced me. I was invited to take part in social groups that introduced me to other young working women in the city; and I became indoctrinated to the social values that have been mainstays throughout my life — values of equality for all, regardless of race, gender, creed or sexual orientation, for example.

As someone else has already written to this venue, I became the woman I am in great part because of the influence of the “Y” on my life.

Times have changed, needs have changed as young women have achieved greater autonomy. The YWCA has changed and adapted to ever-changing needs while still adhering to the principles of truth and justice.

Pearl Tibbetts Sawyer, Auburn