YWCA Grand Island Receives $300,000 Challenge Grant for Former Starr Elementary Renovation

GRAND ISLAND, NE – [December 10, 2025] – YWCA Grand Island is thrilled to announce a significant boost to its mission, having been awarded a generous $300,000 Challenge Grant from John and Dianne Scott of Omaha. This transformative grant is specifically dedicated to the renovation of the former Starr Elementary School site, a project that will dramatically increase the YWCA’s capacity to serve the community.

The John and Dianne Scott Challenge Grant is structured as a dollar-for-dollar match. This means that every single dollar donated by a local Grand Island community member to the YWCA’s “Building Better Futures” campaign between December 4, 2025, and July 1, 2027, will be instantly doubled, up to $300,000.

“We are incredibly grateful to John and Dianne Scott for this challenge grant,” said Amy Bennett, YWCA Grand Island Executive Director. “Their match will allow us to encourage our local community to give to this important project. This is a tremendous opportunity for every neighbor and business to make their donation go twice as far."

The renovation of the former Starr Elementary site is a critical initiative aimed at addressing key community needs. Once complete, the facility will double the YWCA Grand Island’s current childcare capacity, allowing for parents to find safe, quality care so they can work. It will also expand space for YWCA’s essential programs helping to better support women, children, and families in Hall County.

To date, the YWCA has successfully raised approximately 50% of its total fundraising goal for this ambitious project. The new challenge grant arrives at a crucial time to help close the gap. The YWCA Grand Island urges all community members to take advantage of this generous matching opportunity. Your contribution, no matter the size, will have double the impact on providing vital resources for local families.

● Visit: ywca-go.org for more information and to donate online.
● Call: The YWCA Grand Island office at 308-384-9922 to speak with a representative.

About YWCA Grand Island:
YWCA works every day to eliminate racism and empower women. Through advocacy and local programming, YWCA creates real change for women, families and communities. Visit for more programming details: www.ywca-gi.org.