Illinois YWCA of the U.S.A. records, Record Group 11. Microfilmed central files

The YWCA of Chicago, Illinois begins with employment and housing services for the women and girls of Chicago, later expanding to war work efforts during World War I and joining as an affiliated association of the YWCA of the U.S.A. in 1918. The history of the association's affiliation, administration, governance and programs and services are documented in constitutions and bylaws, administrative records, correspondence and annual reports. As a large city association these documents also describe the relationships and functions of the many YWCA of Chicago departments and centers in Chicago. Reports of the Girl Reserve, Industrial and Business and Professional Women's Departments of the YWCA of Chicago describe and assess the work being done on behalf of those groups of women and girls with sometimes unique needs. Other documents include correspondence concerning association finance and historical notes and summaries of the association.