In The News

Yolo County, CA – After an incredible 15-year journey marked by extraordinary growth and a profound impact on the community, Lynnette Irlmeier, Executive Director of Empower Yolo, and her husband Bill Irlmeier, Facilities Manager, have announced their retirement...

Empower Yolo’s youth programs are gearing up for another fun and enriching summer of activities for local youths. With community support, camps and leadership programs aim to empower kids and support families throughout the summer. Shelter Camp - The Starkweather...

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote access to mental health services. It’s an opportunity to educate, advocate, and support one another in improving mental well-being. At Empower Yolo, we understand that...

Yolo County, CA – Empower Yolo is proud to announce that it has been selected as the 2025 Nonprofit of the Year for Assembly District 4 by Assembly Majority Leader Cecilia Aguiar-Curry. This recognition comes as part of a statewide celebration hosted by the California...

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) and Child Abuse Prevention Month, campaigns to raise awareness about sexual violence, and support survivors.  Sexual violence is any type of unwanted sexual contact. In California more than 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men...

Yolo County, CA – Empower Yolo is proud to announce the renaming of its shelter to the Starkweather Family Shelter in honor of the Starkweather family’s extraordinary generosity and commitment to the organization’s mission. The family has played a pivotal role in...

Empower Yolo wants to express gratitude for the incredible individuals and organizations who have ensured the success of Empower Yolo this year. “The financial support of community members is essential for us,” says Cathy Farman, board chair of Empower Yolo. “Private...

As Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM) begins in February, Empower Yolo remains dedicated to promoting healthy and safe relationships among young people. Our campaign aims to raise awareness about teen dating violence while providing crucial prevention...

Human Trafficking Awareness Month in January is a campaign to raise awareness about human trafficking issues and support survivors. Human trafficking, also known as trafficking in persons or modern-day slavery, is a crime that involves compelling or coercing a person...

The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy and celebration, but for survivors of domestic violence, it can be a deeply challenging time. Memories of past trauma, financial strain, and the pressure to maintain holiday traditions can weigh heavily. However,...