The YMCA in Greenfield has kicked off its 2017 annual Sustaining Campaign. All of the funds raised will be used to sustain the Y so Franklin County youth and families can continue to have access to the vital programs and services the Y provides in the areas of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility projects.
Seven years ago, 12 to 13 percent of our members utilized our sliding fee scale to join. Today, around 30 percent need help. Seven years ago, the financial aid we provided was around $180,000. We are projecting $425,000 of need in 2017 or about 15 percent of our budget.
The good news is people from all income levels are making a choice to be healthier in mind, body and spirit. In fact, about 54 percent of the 700 doctor referrals to our Prescribe the Y Program and Diabetes Prevention Program in 2016 were folks who needed financial assistance to get healthy.
The Y is much more than a great place for people of all ages and abilities to exercise; it is a cause. As a locally funded nonprofit charity, we are dedicated to nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving the health and well being of those who are ready to take ownership of their wellness and providing support to Y members and nonmembers in need.
In 2016, charitable gifts helped make it possible so over 800 children improved their swim skills, 120 children could be in our childcare programs each day even on snow days, 250 children benefited from our summer reading program at Camp Apex and over 2,000 children got regular exercise to help with the nation’s youth obesity problem. Donations helped seniors get or stay healthy so they can age in place in their own homes for as long as possible and helped others heal or deal with chronic pain. Financial support provided families with a healthy place to play together seven days per week.
All total, around 10,000 Franklin County residents of all ages did something positive for themselves at our Y in 2016. When people donate to the Y’s annual Sustaining Campaign, their generosity reaches children, families and seniors throughout Franklin County (55 percent of our members live in towns other than Greenfield.)
If you are contacted by one of our 90 volunteer campaigners, please consider helping sustain your YMCA — a very important charity in Franklin County. If you are not contacted, you can send gifts directly to: The Annual Campaign, YMCA in Greenfield, 451 Main St., Greenfield MA 01301 or use the “donate” button at ymcaingreenfield.org. Every gift makes a difference. Everyone has a role to play; together we can achieve so much more.
Bob Sunderland is the YMCA
Executive Director.