The YMCA of Owen Sound-Grey Bruce is celebrating the generosity of the community after raising $98,000.
The money was raised for their Strong Communities campaign, which runs throughout their fiscal year that ends on March 31st.
“The YMCA Strong Communities campaign showcases the power of community spirit and collaboration,” says April Robinson, the YMCA’s Manager of Fund Development. “The contributions that people make directly impacts [other] people’s lives, providing access to vital YMCA programs and services.”
The Strong Communities campaign is a financial assistance program that helps individuals get access to programs and services available at the YMCA, including things from health, fitness, and aquatics, to other programs such as childcare and housing.
She says that although they fell a bit short of their $100,000 fundraising goal for last fiscal year, it’s still a success for those who rely on the YMCA’s Strong Communities initiatives.
As March 31st drew closer, the organization found that they were going to be $20,000 short of their goal for the year, so they reached out to see if they could make the final push.
“The community came through in spades,” says Robinson. “Large donations came in, one-time donations, as well as new monthly donors, which was absolutely amazing to see the power of the community.”
She says that every donation makes a difference, no matter the size.
She also says that the organization is doing what it can to help as many people as possible with the resources that they have.
“We’re always evolving and looking at the community needs, and doing out best at the YMCA to fulfill the needs of the community and whatever programs or services are needed.”
The start of fundraising for 2024 is a fun run hosted by Cobble Beach, which takes place on Sunday, April 28th.