Curious about how the YWCA serves a purpose in Fort Dodge? An opportunity to learn more is coming up.

An open house will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday at the YWCA, 826 First Ave. N. The event will highlight the facilities with room tours, their famous Chunky Monkey treats, historical photos and more.

“We don’t often do this due to confidentiality and so forth,” YWCA Executive Director Nici George said of the open house event. “It’ll give our community a chance to see where residents live and what we offer.”

“There tends to be a perception that we are a homeless shelter,” she added. “While we will welcome anyone, there is and has been so much more to the YWCA. I often hear of people who reflect on staying at the YWCA with family or just coming to dances and many other past events. There are so many memories out there. We’re hoping this open house can create even more.”

George and her 23-person staff also want to shine light on needed volunteer opportunities and some programs the association has including the ever-popular Adopt-A-Room program.

“Businesses and private individuals really have taken to (Adopt-A-Room),” she said. “They’ve come in to decorate them and really have fun with it. Our calendar is full with Chunky Monkey Christmas in July, opportunities at Vincent House as people can rent it out for many options, a food pantry for the community and even child care when needed as examples.”

The YWCA is open to women 18 years and older and their children of up to age 13. They also can assist men on an outpatient basis only.

“The national motto is empowering women and eliminating racism,” George said. “We’re part of YWCA USA, providing treatment to women to get them to a point of independence and being productive members of society. We don’t want to put them into a situation in the world where their ability to live and be sustainable is in question.”