Work Readiness & Self-Employment

Work Meeting, Career Development, YWCA Delaware

WAND - Wo(Men) Achieving New Directions

YWCA Delaware's WAND program offers a wide range of information and support to help Delawareans achieve their career goals and improve their financial health.

Our services cater to the needs of women and their families, and include:

  • Career Sessions, Roundtables, Workshops

  • One-to-One Workforce Development Support

  • Preparing you for success in a post COVID-19 Job Market

  • One-to-One Business Counseling

  • Assessment of Business Needs and Resources

  • Entrepreneur Goal Development and Achievement

  • DIY Marketing Lab and Workshop

Our organization embraces a wrap-around Care-Team approach to ensure participants receive additional resources as needed while in our programs or during periodic check-ins after graduation, used to support further those we serve.

Current Workshops

  • WorkAbility

    Join WorkAbility, our four-week career development boot camp providing essential tools and skills for job seekers, those aiming for promotions, or seeking increased income. Our program covers strength analysis, job search strategies, resume building, interview techniques, job placement, networking, and employment negotiation. Open to all, with a focus on supporting individuals with a justice background. Attend all four sessions for comprehensive assistance.

    (Registrants must attend all four sessions.)

    Location: YWCA Delaware Home-Life Management Center
    709 N. Madison Street, Wilmington, DE 19801

    Schedule: Wednesday evenings beginning April 10 through May 1 from 5:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

    • Wednesday, April 10, 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
    • Wednesday, April 17, 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
    • Wednesday, April 24, 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
    • Wednesday, May 1, 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

    Enroll Now

  • YW Strive - Digital Literacy

    Join YW Strive, a free six-week digital literacy and workforce training program using Google Workspace. Take an assessment to determine your skill level—Basic or Advanced. Open to adults (18+). Connect with a supportive community and gain real-time skills. Any individual facing employment barriers or barriers to attending college is strongly encouraged to register.

    Location: YWCA Delaware Home-Life Management Center 709 N. Madison St., Wilmington DE

    Time: 5:30 - 8:00 p.m.

    Schedule: 6 Weeks Beginning Tuesday, May 14
    • Tuesday, May 14, 2024
    • Tuesday, May 21, 2024
    • Tuesday, May 28, 2024
    • Tuesday, June 4, 2024
    • Tuesday, June 11, 2024
    • Tuesday, June 18, 2024

    Topics include:

    • Digital Skills for the Workplace (Google Drive: Docs, Sheets, Slides, Gmail, Calendars)
    • Presentation Skills
    • Interview Techniques with Mock Interview
    • Partners (professional volunteers)
    • Resume Improvement
    • Team Work and Collaboration
    • SMART Goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely)

    Enroll Now

  • YElevate Pitch Competition

    YWCA Delaware has partnered with the TJX Foundation, Inc. and YWCA USA to host YElevate, a small business pitch competition open to all entrepreneurs with an incorporated, established company. The deadline to apply is March 9th, 11:59:59 p.m.

    Chosen finalists will have the opportunity to pitch their business IN PERSON to a panel of judges through an invitation to the YElevate Pitch Competition sponsored by TJX Foundation, Inc. at CSC Station, 112 South French Street, Wilmington, DE on April 25, 2024 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with the opportunity to compete for $18,500 in prizes (First Place: $7,500, Second Place: $6,000, Third Place: $5,000). By participating in this competition, selected finalists will also gain exclusive access to valuable resources and guidance to help them through the competition process.

    Learn More

  • Entrepreneurship Essentials: Monthly Empowerment Series

    Embark on a transformative journey with YWCA Delaware's Entrepreneurship Essentials Monthly Empowerment Series. Our innovative webinars are designed to inspire, educate, and connect aspiring and established entrepreneurs, fostering a supportive community that propels businesses to new heights.

    Each month, we’re hosting dynamic sessions featuring accomplished entrepreneurs, industry experts, and thought leaders who share their insights, experiences and success stories. Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills essential for entrepreneurial success through our workshops and curated resources. From business planning and financial literacy to marketing strategies and technology trends, our sessions provide practical guidance for every stage of your entrepreneurial journey.

    Schedule:
    Wednesday, March 20, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
    Protecting Your Business and Assets
    Small Business Insurance Workshop with guest speaker Garland Thompson

    register now