The days following Thanksgiving are a retailer’s dream – slash – nightmare – Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday.
But then comes Giving Tuesday, where the emphasis is not on retail so much as on ways to support local organizations. It’s a global day of giving that has come into its own as a way to provide support to causes that matter to you, the giver.
This year, the leadership at the Henderson Family YMCA invite its neighbors and community partners to donate on Giving Tuesday – Dec. 3, 2024 – to support the Y’s mission to provide programs and services that help individuals and families across Vance County and the surrounding area.
Director of Marketing and Operations Christina Miceli said, “Many people feel compelled to support an organization that provides vital services to all, especially in their local communities. The YMCA’s ability to create a sense of belonging and a healthy connected community – through afterschool care, summer camps, swimming lessons, fitness classes, or senior wellness – appeals to donors who want to make a tangible difference.”
A $100 donation, for example, equates to three swim lessons for a young person. A donation of $230 provides a family one month of after-school care for a child. And a $582 gift provides one adult a year-long membership with full access to all facility amenities, including the fitness center and the pool.
So whether it’s swim lessons, a workout in the weight room or water aerobics for senior adults, Miceli said the Y provides a wide assortment of programs and activities.
“When people see how their contributions can directly enhance lives and strengthen the community, the YMCA stands out as a truly worthy cause,” Miceli said.
“The YMCA means something different to everyone; it is truly what you make of it.”
For many, the Y is a place where young people learn how to swim, but also a place where they gain confidence, Miceli said. “For others, it’s a place where children can experience summer camp and embrace the gift of adventure. The Y is also a welcoming space for widows and widowers, providing the gift of connection and community during challenging times,” she said.
Teens can play basketball after school, strengthening their passion for sports and the value of teamwork.
“For our members, it’s a space to exercise and receive the gift of activity and health. And for those looking to make a difference, it’s a place to volunteer and participate, giving the gift of purpose and fulfillment,” Miceli added.
Through a variety of programs and partnerships, the local YMCA strives to create an inclusive environment that supports the health and well-being of all community members, Miceli said. That makes the Y a welcoming place for everyone.
With a focus on affordability, inclusivity and community outreach, the Y can be a place for the whole community to use and enjoy.
- Financial Assistance: The Y offers financial assistance and discounted rates for youth programs, ensuring that low-income individuals and families can participate in memberships without financial barriers. This commitment allows more people to access the amenities and benefits of the Y.
- Diverse Programming: The Y offers swim lessons for all ages and skill levels, ensuring everyone can learn to swim safely. But there’s also a wide range of fitness classes for people of all abilities, from beginners to advanced. The Y tailors programming for older adults, too, which includes social activities and educational workshops to promote healthy aging.
- Community Collaboration: The Y collaborates with schools, nonprofits and community groups to expand its outreach. Free programs like the Diabetes Prevention Program, for example, helps participants lower their risk of type 2 diabetes, and the Y’s Safety Around Water initiative targets second graders in Vance County how to be safe around water.
Visit https://www.hendersonymca.org/ and click on the link to donate.
