National defense, 1940-4945

Documents concerning the YWCA of the U.S.A. and national defense during World War II. As World War II begins to have a more direct effect on the United States, the YWCA of the U.S.A. assesses its role in civilian defense. A set of guiding principles addresses the overall role and purpose of the work of the YWCA of the U.S.A. during this time. A committee on YWCA of the U.S.A. volunteers in civilian defense is formed to manage the volunteer program, explore volunteer opportunities, disseminate information about volunteer opportunities to local associations and communicate how YWCA volunteer work contributes to civilian defense. Minutes and reports from the committee meetings provide insight into the needs of the volunteer program and the contributions the volunteers make. In addition, representatives from the YWCA of the U.S.A. participate in the Conference of National Civic Organizations, a conference chaired by Harriet Elliot, Consumer Advisor on the Advisory Commission to the Council of National Defense. The conference proceedings and reports include speeches and discussions concern maintaining social welfare, consumer-buyer problems, public health and how groups can contribute to the "total defense" efforts.