I.D.E.A. Coalition

The Chautauqua County I.D.E.A. Coalition is a county-wide collective of organizations, businesses, and community members working together to promote racial and social justice. Through inclusion, diversity, equity, and access, we aim to create a community where everyone belongs and has opportunities to thrive.

Our Mission

To make Chautauqua County a place where everyone belongs and has the opportunity to thrive, particularly those who have been historically marginalized.

About Us

  • Purpose

    The Chautauqua County I.D.E.A. Coalition was established to:

    • Give voice to marginalized individuals affected by racism and social injustice.
    • Act as a bridge between impacted populations and service organizations in Chautauqua County.
    • Commit to anti-racist work and broad social justice initiatives to create systemic change.

  • Goals

    • Engage with historically marginalized communities to identify barriers to belonging and success.
    • Prioritize issues and concerns that arise from these direct conversations.
    • Collaborate with organizations and impacted individuals to address barriers and create meaningful change.

  • Strategic Outcomes

    • Empowered Organizations: Local agencies and service providers equipped to serve all residents equitably.
    • Community Accountability:     Residents engaged in shaping policies and ensuring accountability.
    • Sustainable Initiatives:     Community-driven projects designed to create lasting impact.
    • Corporate Engagement:     Businesses contributing to positive social change.

Our Leadership

Sandra Lewis

Social Justice, Race, Equity & I.D.E.A. Director

slewis@ywcajamestown.com 716-488-2237 x224

I.D.E.A. Office: 626 Central Avenue, Dunkirk, NY 14048

"I am honored and excited to work with the YWCA as their I.D.E.A. Project Social Justice Director. I look forward to strengthening the coalition’s positive and impactful partnerships so that everyone in Chautauqua County has the opportunity to thrive.

My commitment to social justice has been a lifelong endeavor, reflected in my service to local, statewide, and national organizations. I am a lifetime member of the NAACP, the Community Liaison for the I.D.E.A. Project, and a Governor-appointed Commissioner for New York State Parks and Recreation (Region #8). I have worked as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) professional for 16 years and currently serve as an Executive Board Member of the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation.

My lifelong dedication to education, social justice, and community service reflects my commitment to empowering individuals and fostering equitable opportunities for all, making a lasting impact on my community and beyond."

Community Engagement Liasons

Learn More

  • Backbone Agency

    I.D.E.A. Transition to YWCA

    Learn More

  • Coalition Members

    Supporting the work of the I.D.E.A. Coalition

    members

  • Solutions Teams

    Solutions Teams are made up of community members and coalition members

    teams

  • Advisory Conmittee

    To Be Announced

  • Progress Report

    2023 Coalition Progress Report

    Read

Advocacy Opportunities

Interested in creating positive change in your community? YWCA Jamestown is always seeking passionate advocates who are dedicated to our mission. Whether you want to raise awareness, support policy initiatives, or share your expertise, your voice can make a difference in empowering the individuals we serve. Join us in driving meaningful change!

Learn more

Contact Us

I.D.E.A. Office
626 Central Avenue, Dunkirk, NY 14048

Phone
716-488-2237 ext. 224

Email
slewis@ywcajamestown.com