Donalda Vine-Mutton, a long-time ambassador, alumnae and supporter of the YWCA, passed away on Friday, February 20, 2015 at 88 years of age.
Donalda was connected to the YWCA for more than 60 years. In 1950, as a young single woman returning to Calgary after a year working overseas in the United Kingdom, Donalda realized her experiences had not only changed her but also given her a good understanding of the challenges that young women were facing. Many were struggling to find their own identities in a modern society; often trying to remain employed in a post-war work-force; and working to support each other in a changing world.
Upon the suggestion of her sister, Donalda discovered a way to help women and girls through Kappa Gamma, a YWCA facilitated club.
Kappa Gamma focused on supporting those in the community who were less fortunate, and this truly spoke to Donalda. Thus began the start of a connection to the YWCA that spanned more than six decades.
Through Kappa Gamma, Donalda found not only opportunities to help women and children, but also lifelong friendships she was deeply proud of. She fondly recalled meeting young women at the train station on their arrival in Calgary and escorting them to the YWCA where they would find a safe place to stay; working with other Calgary women on fashion shows that were signature fundraising events; her tenure on the YWCA Board of Directors, Public Relations Committee; and ten years as the treasurer and YWCA representative to the Calgary Local Council of Women.
When asked what kept her engaged with the YWCA, Donalda would tell us, “I believe in what the YWCA does. Helping women and girls to have better opportunities and better lives.” Over the decades, that never changed.
Donalda’s ongoing engagement, and that of other members of the YWCA Alumnae, brings a wealth of knowledge, perspective and value to the organization. A long history means there is a never ending supply of stories to be shared, lives impacted, and changes in the community to facilitate. None of this would happen without committed individuals like Donalda, and for that we are truly grateful.
The YWCA will always remember Donalda’s commitment to seeing women thrive. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. She will be greatly missed.
