The Central Lincoln County YMCA announced the launch of its 2017 annual fund drive on July 13. This year’s theme is “Our Y is more than a gym. It’s a cause.” Funds raised through the annual drive provide an extraordinary opportunity to ensure a brighter future for the children, families, and seniors in the region.
Giving to the Central Lincoln County YMCA’s annual fund ensures members of the community who can’t afford, but deserve, a Y experience have that opportunity. The Y is a not-for-profit organization that provides financial assistance to ensure that no one is turned away because of inability to pay. The Y relies on charitable donations to sustain and enhance programming, serve members, and reach out to individual communities. Community support helps the Y make a meaningful and long-lasting impact right here at home.
Charlotte, age 5 and a YMCA member, came to the Y one day with her mother. As a toddler, Charlotte received serious burns over much of her body. She spends much of her time at home due to ongoing treatments and while her mother cares for her own aging mother. Her mother believed it was important for Charlotte to have more interaction with kids her own age. Charlotte received a scholarship to the Y and has since participated in Itty Bitty Soccer, Itty Bitty Basketball, tennis, and gymnastics. She exudes excitement every time she walks through the doors of the Y — and has met many wonderful new friends to play with.
Another person impacted by the CLC Y is Cathy. After Cathy’s husband underwent two heart operations and was then diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, she herself was diagnosed with breast cancer. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation left Cathy without energy and deeply worried about the future. A friend told her about the Y and Cathy started taking Fit for Life classes and felt her energy build. She later signed up for beginners tennis and fell in love with the game. Speaking of this experience, Cathy said, “Later, when I became my husband Hank’s full-time caregiver, it was tennis and all the wonderful people I met on the courts that helped me get through that very difficult period. I am so grateful for my Y!”
Last year, thanks to donations to the annual fund and other annual special events, more than $204,000 was provided in scholarships for programs, summer camp, and memberships for individuals of all ages throughout the 10-town service area, as well as funding for mission-based programs.
The CLC YMCA 2017 annual fund drive officially kicked off in July when letters were mailed to residences throughout the Y’s 10-town service area. Community members were asked to review the material and consider donating to support this year’s annual fund drive to continue strengthening the community in which we live. One hundred percent of the CLC YMCA Board and leadership-level staff have already pledged support of this year’s annual fund, contributing to this year’s goal of $125,000.
To learn more about the Y’s annual fund drive, go to clcymca.org and click on “Support Us” on the home page, call 563-9622, or drop off a donation at the Y or mail it in the remittance envelope that will be arriving shortly at area homes.
