
This story is part of the QCBJ’s annual Newsmakers edition. This year-end wrap-up by the Quad Cities Regional Business Journal’s staff includes some of the biggest stories we brought you during 2024. Each story also includes an update on the subject. Excerpts from the original stories as well as the new updates appeared in print in our Monday, Dec. 23 edition.
The initial story was published in May of 2024.
The paint was barely dry on the new state-of-the-art YWCA Quad Cities 64,000-square-foot building before its leaders were looking for ways to serve the Quad Cities’ most at-risk youth in its empty old location.
Some four months after cutting the ribbon there, the new YWCA Quad Cities youth homeless shelter called Alan’s Place has made significant strides toward getting the old Rock Island location at 229 16th St. ready for intakes, YWCA volunteer and advocate Holly Sparkman told the QCBJ.
The new shelter – which will be the only shelter in the region providing a safe, stable home for homeless QC youth – is named for the late Alan Egly. The Doris & Victor Day Foundation’s longest-serving executive director was a tireless advocate for QC causes and youth.

The anticipated Alan’s Place opening date is Feb. 1, 2025, pending approval by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, the organization said last month.
As that date approaches, preparations were in full swing, with contractors secured to do the sprinkler system, install individual showers and an elevator, Ms. Sparkman added.
Some furniture already had been secured and the YWCA Quad Cities is working with the Illinois Department of Human Services to secure 16 beds for the rooms.
Staff also have been going through training to ensure the team is prepared to meet the unique challenges faced by the young individuals they will serve.
At the same time, the YWCA has been ramping up efforts to attract new members to its new facility at 513 17th St., Rock Island. On Tuesday, Nov. 12, the organization held a well-attended community open house. Guests took tours and saw demonstrations in the new state-the-art facility that includes preschool classrooms, Aquatic Center and gym. Find out more about the YWCA, how to become a member and donate to the new youth shelter at www.ywcaqc.org.