Why raise money for the Y? I could go on all day. I have the privilege of seeing so many people that we impact every single day that it brings tears to my eyes and makes my heart warm just to type this. That is why I am so passionate about my work.
I walk into the building and see the man who lives out of his van, but because of Financial Assistance, he has a place to shower, exercise, stay warm, and feel like he belongs somewhere.
I drop my son of in the preschool and see that some of the children down there don't have proper clothes, don't have healthy lunches - but because of your donations, their parents can drop them to a place that is safe and caring, feeds them a healthy breakfast and snacks, coordinates donations for the families at Christmas, allows the children to swim, go to the park, and prepare their little minds for Kindergarten.
I walk into the weight room and see someone who is finally taking their health seriously, and in an environment like the YMCA, doesn't feel intimidated to step on a treadmill when surrounded by people of ALL levels of fitness.
Lastly, as of last week, I jump into the pool and volunteer for our Make a Splash program. I teach third graders water safety and swimming because even in an area surrounded by water, those are skills they don't KNOW because their social and economic background hasn't given them the opportunity. I help the little girl float that even though her feet can touch the bottom, she still needs a floaty and to hold onto me, because she's afraid of the water.
I walk by the Chapel and see cancer survivors, visiting with each other, and getting their health back on track post-treatment through our LiveSTRONG program.
I encourage you to donate what you can - your dollars, no matter how little or how small, make it possible for people to be a part of a community that makes a true difference in their lives.