The Bartko Foundation

Ally Award

YWCA Greater Pittsburgh’s 2025 Ally Award goes to The Bartko Foundation. The Bartko Foundation is a legacy to Irene and Ted Bartko who raised their children and grandchildren to know that the purpose of life is not to just be, but to give back, and that our lives should not be judged by what we get out of life but how our living makes a difference. Given that core value and a desire to use the funds entrusted to them in the manner that would have the greatest impact, The Bartko Foundation chooses to assist single women of color, with children, in their efforts to achieve self-sufficiency. Research indicates that these individuals continually face significant obstacles in obtaining meaningful education, employment, safe and adequate housing, and reliable transportation. Overcoming these obstacles creates opportunities not only for the mother but also for her children as well as our community.