The YWCA provides quality, affordable early childhood education at two different centers. Children ages six weeks to five years learn through the use of developmentally appropriate literacy and anti-bias curriculum that prepares them for both school and a life-long respect of differences and diversity. The YWCA also has a collaboration with Head Start. Head Start and Early Head Start services are available to the children and their families.

The YWCA offers three programs for girls and youth. It participates in the Grant School Collaborative providing before and after school, summer and school break enrichment programming for youth grades K-5 at Grant School. The program includes academic life skills and multicultural enrichment activities. The Girl Power! program is a gender specific empowerment and enrichment program for girls ages 9-15. It includes academic, self-esteem, money management, career and life skill activities in an environment where girls are safe to try out new activities, make new choices and celebrate their successes. The YWCA is also part of the Mentor Duluth Collaborative and provides a varity of mentoring opportunities.

The YWCA's Spirit Valley Young Mother's Program provides a safe place for young mothers ages 16-21 to live, as well as supportive services. Supportives services include: parenting classes, money management classes, child care, homework assistance, life skills, job skills and mentoring. They have an efficiency apartment and access to community space that includes a large group kitchen, living room, computer lab and a family room.

The YWCA's Breast Cancer Advocacy Program provides outreach, education, advocacy and support to women on their breast cancer journey. It provides access to free or low-cost mammograms and clinical breast exams for women with limited financial resources. In 2007, the program expanded to include identifying and addressing barriers that keep women from accessing breast cancer and breast health services.