Why the Y?

Written by Vicky Foresman, Vice President of External Affairs, for the January 29 association newsletter.

Everyone who interacts with the Y – as a member, as a volunteer, as a donor – has a story to tell about what the Y means to them. Perhaps the Y is where you learned to swim as child, or the place where you exercise as an adult. Maybe you fondly remember summer day camp at the Y, where you found your best friends, unleashed new skills and grew in self-confidence while your parents were at work. Or you might think of the Y as the organization that provided you with lunch, or a swimsuit, or extra help with reading and math.  

The community at the Y…. the mission of the Y…. the cause of the Y… the promise of the Y has never wavered through the 150 years here in central Iowa. We have been listening and responding to our community’s most critical social needs, ensuring that everyone has the chance to learn, grow and thrive regardless of age, income, ability, ethnicity or faith. Whatever the reason to walk through the door of the Y, for many this opportunity was made possible because of a scholarship being granted to them because they needed help. And many times those acts of caring become turning points in someone’s life. 

Later this week, 400 Y volunteers and staff will be actively working to support the YMCA 2019 Annual Campaign, with a goal of raising $1,625,000. These funds help support individuals who want to attend the Y but lack the economic means to do so. The Y strives to turn no one away due to an inability to pay. Achieving the Annual Campaign goal and securing these much-needed funds from donors is how the Y is able to be “for all.”      

If you are called upon by a Campaign Volunteer, we hope you will give a personally significant gift. This gift has the power to help a neighbor, a friend, a work colleague, and maybe even someone in your own family.  If you don’t get a call, please still take the initiative to support this important work. All funds raised stay right here in the community.  

Thank you for considering a gift to the Y’s Annual Campaign. Together we have the ability to strengthen the foundation of community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. With your support, all people have the chance to access the programs and services of the YMCA.