March 22, 2017 at 4:15 p.m.
Push for YMCA Support Campaign underway
Cycling class makes donation
Push for YMCA Support Campaign underway
By Kayla Thomason-
"One purpose of the Annual Support Campaign at the YMCA of the Northwoods is to help fund scholarships for people with financial difficulty," said Ben Meyer, chair of the YMCA's Annual Support Campaign. "This allows many families to utilize fitness, programs, and classes at the Y which they would otherwise be unable to access. Funds raised through the ASC also go to support the Livestrong program at the Y, which is a free program for people recovering from cancer."
Livestrong pairs a staff member with a cancer patient to help them meet their physical recovery goals.
Other funds from the support campaign go to swimming lessons at the YMCA.
"(The support campaign and scholarships are) essential to the Y's mission," Meyer said. "The Y is so much more than just a 'swim and gym.' The Y is truly a community cornerstone and staple. Part of that mission means making its services and programs accessible to all, regardless of financial capability."
The fundraising campaign was once called the Strong Kids Campaign, but the name has been changed to reflect the fact that it benefits adults as well as children.
The Annual Support Campaign includes two major fundraising events, Denim and Diamonds and the Golf Scramble at Pinewood Country Club, July 15 at 9 a.m.
The third annual Denim and Diamonds Board Event will be held June 2 at the Rosewood Barn.
The event will include heavy appetizers, cash bar, a live auction and raffles with necklaces from Wickersham Jewelry.
There will also be a 50/50 raffle with a chance to win up to $2,500. Tickets are available to purchase for $10 at the front desk in the Welcome Center or from the YMCA Board of Directors.
While these events raise a nice amount of funds, the majority comes from families and individuals who pledge separate from either event, Y officials said.
"There is absolutely no certain amount needed for a pledge," Meyer said. "The campaign is as much about awareness and buy-in from the community as it is about certain dollar goals. We're blessed to accept any pledge, from small change to thousands of dollars."
The campaign has been going on for several months, but the big push is at the end of March.
"In late March, YMCA Welcome Center staff will be asking visitors if they'd like to chip in to the ASC, in any amount," Meyer explained. "People can also pledge online at http://www.ymcaofthenorthwoods.org/pg/give_supportcampaign or by contacting me."
One group at the YMCA has already made a contribution.
Sue Koch, cycling instructor at the YMCA, mentioned the campaign to her class and asked if they would be interested in making a donation.
When she brought the subject to their attention she was met with eager responses.
"Right away they're like 'Yeah, yeah, yes, we'll do that,'" she said.
The class of 10 students raised a total of $175.
"They are a great group of people, very big hearts," Koch said.
This is the first time that they raised money as a class, but years ago there was a cycle-a-thon that raised money for the YMCA.
That event has since ended and the Annual Support Campaign has taken its place.
"I think (the campaign is) a great way for members of the Y to support and raise money and help other people enjoy a lot of the things that go on at the Y, stay healthy," Koch said.
Kayla Breese may be reached at [email protected].
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