September 2026 Basecamp Newsletter

A healthy and strong community is more than just having places to live, work, and gather. It's knowing that we aren’t alone, that there are resources available when we need them, and that the people and organizations around us care about our safety and well-being.  

This is what the YWCA Lewiston-Clarkston in Lewiston, Idaho, does every day to help make this kind of community possible. Through advocacy, resources, shelter, and support, the YWCA helps individuals and families move toward safety and sustainability while reminding us all that we have a role to play in building safer, stronger communities.  

We sat down with Victoria Scalise, the Director of Development & Engagement, to learn more about the organization, its mission, and its long-standing partnership with P1FCU.  

The Mission of the YWCA

With more than 100 years of history, what started as a safe place for young women to gather has evolved into an organization that provides shelter and support for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. It is the only YWCA in the state of Idaho, serving over 14,000 square miles in Eastern Washington and North Central Idaho.  

Part of Victoria’s role is to build relationships and help the community understand the YWCA’s work. At its core, their mission is to build strong communities by actively promoting the value of diversity and the right of everyone to a life free from violence, poverty, and oppression. 

“We serve everyone,” Victoria shared. “Domestic violence and sexual assault don’t know whether you have money or not, it doesn’t know your beliefs or politics. It doesn’t matter who you are, what you believe, or where you come from. Though it can sometimes be harder for someone with fewer resources to get out.” 

That’s where the YWCA’s services and programs can make a meaningful difference. They serve everyone and offer emergency shelter units, safe shelter options, and a 24-hour crisis line.  

Domestic violence is more than just physical abuse. It can include emotional abuse, financial abuse, controlling access to resources, and other forms of control. Because of this, their work goes beyond just providing shelter. They also provide safety planning, women's and children’s support groups, and provide advocacy for health, medical, and legal situations.  

“I see this work as hope,” she explains. “This is something that happens; it’s a reality. The work that I do is to help elevate the visibility of hope and the work that we do.” 

Why Partnership Matters