I came to the Y after graduating from high school in 1952. I was an 18 year old farm gal. I felt like my Dad pushed me out of the nest, otherwise I would probably still be on the farm.

The YWCA and the friends I made there have enriched my life many, many times.

I came to the city to go to Platte Business School. The first day walking down the hill I felt like someone was following me. When I stopped to go into Platte Business School, a young lady did also. We have been friends since then. She was from Maryville, Mo.

My folks use to bring me back to the Y after spending the weekend with them. I always brought eggs for my Aunt and we gals would hop the bus and deliver them but had to hurry back to watch the traffic from the steps of the Y. I still hate it that I didn’t learn to swim there, but I was too busy guy watching. I did have some dates. You wouldn’t feel safe nowadays doing that.

Mrs. A. Ware was our housemother. At the time, I thought she was a crab, now I see she was looking out for her girls. We had a curfew and if we were late she would be waiting in the lobby with a stern look. I can still see her today.

I am so glad the YWCA is still there helping others, like it did me.

Maurine Vogel

St. Joseph