Each year, through your donations, the Capital District YMCA is able give families and children the ability to have a safe and fun outlet to strengthen our mission to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities. Below are the words and stories of just a few of those who you have helped continue to afford the opportunities the YMCA offers.
Mission Moments
"I would like to take a moment and thank you for your kindness. This means a lot to my family. I am a single mom of three girls and school clothes and supplies are very expensive. When the start of school comes, I am always afraid of extra doctor bills. This now allows me a little relief. Thanks again."
"Running Start means so very much to us. Being a single dad on workers compensation and trying to provide for my 2 girls has been difficult to say the least. It’s been two plus years and two surgeries since my injury. This help is so very important to us. Thank you so very much. God bless you."
Reach out for Youth Story
Last week I was stopped by a member while making my rounds in the pool area. Michelle and her kids are on the swim team. I said hello, and asked her how things were going? She immediately put her head down and said that she was struggling to make her membership and did not know how much longer she could keep her children in the swim program.
Apparently, Michelle's husband had passed away 5 months ago and now she is the provider of her 3 children and did not want to sacrifice their Y membership or her children's involvement. This was a great “outlet” for her children and herself, to avoid dwelling on her husband’s passing.
I told Michelle about how we might be able to help her and her children through our scholarship program. She was surprised we had such a program. I reassured her it was confidential and she said good because she felt embarrassed, but would take a look at the paperwork and be back on Friday.
On Friday, Michelle personally sought me out to tell ne she felt she had no alternative but to apply, and after speaking with her kids, they really wanted to keep coming to the YMCA.
I was excited to be able to tell Michelle that thru the scholarship program she qualified for a reduced fee and she and her family could continue to use the YMCA. She was so delighted tears came to her eyes, as she said this place has been life changing for her and her children.