Mississippi, circa 1918-1950

Correspondence, reports and administrative records concerning the Mississippi District YWCA and the development of new associations in Pascagoula, Starkville, Vicksburg and West Point, Mississippi. The district YWCA is a central organization for YWCA and Girl Reserve work in small communities unable to support an independently affiliated association. Correspondence and governing documents concern the district association's role, their relationship to local associations and the national organization, structure and purpose. Visitation reports describe and assess association needs, programs and leadership. Other documents include a study of the farm communities and members, a thesis studying the education activities of the association for a master of arts degree from the University of Illinois, lists of professional and volunteer leadership, and correspondence and reports concerning specific program areas, cooperation with the YMCA and matters of finance and leadership. Prior to developing new associations, the YWCA of the U.S.A. studies the current services for women in an area, the community interest, community need and potential leadership. These factors are considered in visitation reports and correspondence with the community leaders and organizers.