Empowerment Gala
Throughout the year, YWCA Yakima hosts a variety of events designed to highlight our mission and raise funds for our programs. The Empowerment Gala is our largest fundraiser of the year.
Funds raised from ticket sales, donations and sponsorships help YWCA Yakima continue to provide and expand domestic violence programs and improve health and safety for women, children, and families.
This year’s event will be a chance to celebrate our community’s strength, deepen our bonds and commitment, and work together to eliminate racism and empower women.
Meet The Speaker
Retired NYPD Detective Katrina Brownlee’s inspiring journey from domestic violence survivor to respected advocate is a powerful testament to resilience and empowerment.
At 22 years old, Katrina was shot 10 times in a violent domestic relationship with her ex-fiancé that worked in law enforcement. The attempted murder left her paralyzed, and after several surgeries, she had to relearn how to walk. Despite enduring years of physical and emotional trauma, including homelessness, Katrina triumphed over adversity and went on to serve 24 years in the NYPD, retiring as a top-ranking detective.
Katrina is now a sought-after speaker and the founder of Young Ladies of Our Future, a non-profit dedicated to empowering at-risk young women by promoting self-esteem, health, and wellness. Through her memoir, And Then Came the Blues, Katrina continues to inspire others with her story of survival, healing, and hope.