Funds raised allow families and individuals in need to access life-changing Y programs
SANTA YNEZ — The Stuart C Gildred Family YMCA launched its Annual Campaign on Feb. 1, 2017. The Y hosted a kickoff event that featured inspirtational testimonails from YMCA members and program participants.
The Stuart C Gildred Family YMCA has set its goal of $160,000 for this year’s Annual Campaign, chaired by Ken Gruendyke.
Every dollar raised in the Annual Campaign is applied to placing kids and families in need into YMCA programs such as summer day camp, teen development, senior fitness, afterschool care, the LIVESTRONG cancer survivor program, and memberships.
“Every day we see firsthand the tremendous impact that the Y has on families and individuals in the area,” said Tommy Speidel, Executive Director. “As a charitable organization, we have an obligation to do whatever we can to build a healthy community. Every kid deserves a chance.”
In 2016, the YMCA provided more than $150,000 in financial assistance to families and individuals for membership or programs such as child care, camp, sports and after-school programs.
“The Y is more than a gym. It’s a cause,” said Executive Director Tommy Speidel. “As a charity, we’re dedicated to nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving the nation’s health and well-being, and giving back and providing support to our neighbors in the greater community Santa Ynez Valley.”
Donations to the YMCA can be made in-person or via mail at the Stuart C Gildred Family YMCA, 900 N Refugio Rd or by calling (805) 686-2037. For more information on the Annual Campaign or to make an online donation, visit ciymca.org/stuartgildred.
About the Channel Islands YMCA: Established in 1887, the Channel Islands YMCA is a charitable organization of seven YMCA branches serving Santa Barbara and Ventura counties including: Camarillo Family YMCA, Lompoc Family YMCA, Montecito Family YMCA, Santa Barbara Family YMCA, Stuart C. Gildred Family YMCA in Santa Ynez, Ventura Family YMCA, and Youth and Family Services YMCA which operates Noah’s Anchorage Youth Crisis Shelter, the St. George Family Youth Center and My Home.
The Y is the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Channel Islands YMCA serves over 46,000 individuals and provides over $1.3 million in financial assistance to families in need for child care, YMCA memberships, away and day camps, youth sports, and teen after-school programs. For more information about the Stuart C Gildred Family YMCA, visit http://www.ciymca.org/stuartgildred/ or call (805) 686-2037.