At the YMCA of Snohomish County, strengthening community is our mission. In 2010, 94,300 community members participated in a variety of asset-rich activities through six regional branch locations. The Y works to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and give back and support our neighbors.
Did you know that the YMCA is the largest child care provider in the county? Last year the Y served 1,381 children at 22 sites in seven school districts. And during the summer, more than 1,600 youth gained new experiences and friendships through Y summer camps.
In addition, 25,940 family members enjoyed programs that support well-being and family unity such as activity nights, holiday events, and financial literacy workshops.
The Y is open to everyone, however many in the community could not afford to participant if it wasn’t for the Y’s Financial Assistance Program. How do we do that? In no small part through the money raised by the annual “Invest in Youth” Campaign which has just kicked off at each of our six operations in Snohomish County.
In 2010, the Y provided $1,850,000 in direct financial assistance to 11,456 individuals. In addition, more than $658,000 was provided in youth program subsidies, ensuring the presence of caring adults to nurture the potential of 45,000 children and teens across Snohomish County.
Every day for 110 years, your Y has worked side-by-side with community members to address the most pressing needs in Snohomish County and make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.
Read what Harmony has to say about how the Y helped her family in a time of need:
“After my marriage ended I struggled to make ends meet for me and my son. I was discretely approached by a Y staff member who spoke to me about options to keep my Y membership and provide child care for my son. I was so relieved to learn that the Y has financial assistance. Child care and camp have been positive learning environments for my son, and he has blossomed in his tae kwon do class. Not only are the teachers helpful and supportive, but I really feel like they care about my son and our situation. We have been extremely blessed and are humbly grateful to be part of the YMCA community!”
Harmony, YMCA Member
Harmony and her son are great examples of how people can reach their potential if given an opportunity and access to resources. The sobering reality is that there are many families like hers who could desperately use a helping hand through challenging times.
We encourage everyone in the community to join our cause. When we all pitch in and help our neighbors, we make a meaningful, enduring impact in the lives of children and families and ultimately, strengthen our community.
How can you help? Support our Invest in Youth Campaign. Support for the campaign gives kids a safe place to belong where they learn and build confidence; offers families opportunities to reconnect and grow together; and provides people of all backgrounds access to an environment that can help them reach their full potential.
To learn how you can support the YMCA of Snohomish County Invest in Youth Campaign or volunteer, please contact your local YMCA family branch or visit us online at ymca-snoco.org/donate.
You make a difference!
Matt Reinhard is chairperson of YMCA of Snohomish County’s Invest in Youth Campaign.
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