This time each year the Snoqualmie Valley YMCA launches its annual fund drive; this year called Opportunities for All. But do you know what it is and what it does locally?
The annual fund happens pretty quietly every winter, with the money raised helping fund summer camps and after school care for kids regardless of their family’s ability to pay; youth and leadership programs; and community strengthening programs.
The Snoqualmie Y’s 2018 goal is its most ambitious since opening in 2012… $90,000. Since the campaign kicked off in late January, just over $65,000 has been raised – and they’re still hoping to finish strong.
Snoqualmie branch Director Nate Smith explained, “The YMCA continues to meet the Snoqualmie Valley’s most urgent needs through programs funded by the Annual Fund Drive, programs that help ensure our community continues to thrive and grow.”
To give the community an idea of what programs this local campaign 100% funds – and who it impacts – the Snoqualmie YMCA offered a list of programs the annual fund makes possible:
- Developing Confident, Resilient Youth: $25,000 gives 75 youth life-changing summer camp experiences, as well as before and after school care to build confidence and positive relationships, regardless of their family’s ability to pay.
- PlayEVERYDAY Program: $27,000 gives more than 300 elementary school students opportunities to learn healthy lifestyle choices and practice social skills through playground basics—all while modeling good sportsmanship and enthusiasm for fun.
- Teen Leadership Programs: $28,000 provides free teen leadership programs including Youth and Government, Earth Service Corp, Teen Club House, and service projects to develop civic-minded young leaders. In addition, a part-time case manager is being employed at Two Rivers School, to help improve education outcomes.
- Enhancing People’s Health & Building Community: $5,000 supports healthy lifestyle classes for adults at risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, and support for adults with Parkinson’s Disease in a supportive, welcoming environment. Together, participants learn healthier options and make changes that can last a lifetime.
- Summer Meals & Community Gardens: $5,000 gives more than 600 local youth and families free, nutritious summer lunches. It also provides more than 750 lbs of fresh produce for food banks through our community gardens in Historic Snoqualmie and Fall City.
If you’re interested in learning more about the campaign and/or donating, visit: www.seattleymca.org/blog/support-your-snoqualmie-valley-y.
