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December 8, 2021 Giving Guide 2021

YMCA of Central Massachusetts

Future Goals

As an organization dedicated to strengthening the foundations of community through programs and services that support youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the YMCA of Central Massachusetts will continue to focus on addressing the well-being of children and families across the region through:

(1) Strengthening, cultivating, engaging and retaining the next generation leaders in our staff, governance and volunteers to support a cause-driven organization;

(2) Serving as a safe haven for young people, through delivering child care, leadership development and academic support services that build real-world skills;

(3) Combining our efforts to advance the goals of health seekers with an emphasis on supporting vulnerable populations, utilizing evidence-based health initiatives;

(4) Delivering innovative initiatives in partnership with over 100 local organizations that build the necessary skills to live healthful lives;

(5) Welcoming and embracing a diverse network of individuals working collectively to help others achieve a better life, as volunteer engagement remains at the core of our mission; and

(6) Accelerating efforts towards becoming an anti-racist, multicultural organization and addressing systemic racism in communities.


Fundraising Opportunities

With deep roots throughout Worcester County, the YMCA of Central Massachusetts is an invaluable resource to children and families. Staff and volunteers constantly identify and evaluate needs and respond with dynamic, community-based programs. Through collaboration with our Mission Partners, we raise philanthropic dollars to ensure our programming remains accessible to those most in need. 100% of dollars raised in our Annual Campaign are designated towards financial assistance and program subsidies. In 2020, we provided $4.5M in community benefit to our neighbors. Our fundraising success demonstrates the community’s confidence in our organization thanks to our proven track record and our breadth of services that promote healthy living.

We engage Y members, volunteers, individual donors, local businesses and foundations to raise the necessary funds to meet our community’s growing needs. Anyone can make a difference by contributing to the Annual Campaign through an individual gift, participating in a signature event, volunteering and so much more. Visit any of our six branches or contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at 508.755.6101, extension 9277 to learn more.


Giving Opportunities

Each year, the Y’s Annual Campaign raises philanthropic dollars in order to maintain high levels of direct financial assistance and program subsidies to meet growing community need. We offer low- and no-cost programs, including affordable and educational afterschool care, teen leadership opportunities, cancer survivor initiatives and family-focused healthy-living programming. While these programs come at little to no cost to participants, they are not free for the Y to operate. With significant community need in mind, a strong Annual Fund is essential to our Y’s impact on our neighborhoods. Some of the many ways you can help support our cause include: Annual Campaign gifts, signature event sponsorships, community partnerships, matching gifts, participation in YMCA community events, workplace giving, in-kind contributions, bequests and planned giving. To learn more, visit www.ymcaofcm.org.


Volunteer Opportunities

Fundraising, volunteerism and advocacy are critical parts of social responsibility at the Y and we welcome all individuals to join us in our efforts of strengthening our community. Volunteers are the foundation of the YMCA, uniting with staff, members, partners and donors to make a positive difference in the lives of those we serve. There are many different opportunities for volunteering at the Y, including participation in Association and Branch Boards and Committees, raising funds to ensure the Y is accessible to all members of the community, coaching our sports teams and teaching classes designed to help youth lead healthier lives. Volunteering is more than just sharing your time and passion, it’s about knowing you are helping people become stronger, giving back to your community and gaining valuable work experience. Volunteers take an active role in bringing about meaningful, enduring change in your own neighborhood. For more information, please contact your local YMCA Branch.


Post-pandemic

The work of the YMCA continues with a renewed commitment to engaging young people, adults and families as they recover and heal from the lingering effects of the pandemic. Supporting diverse populations where programs and services reflect evolving community need remains our priority. We are excited to welcome back members and introduce the Y to new individuals and families!