GIVING TUESDAY
Giving Tuesday was created to help the “giving season” get started, reminding people that there is more to holidays than consumerism and commercialization. The intention is to set aside a day that was all about celebrating the generosity of giving. Giving Tuesday is organized and celebrated each year with the simple aim of encouraging individuals, families, schools, businesses, and other organizations to give to the less fortunate. The hashtag #GivingTuesday was also created to raise awareness about those in need and encourage people to give to others.
HOW TO CELEBRATE GIVING TUESDAY
There are many ways to celebrate Giving Tuesday – donate to local nonprofit organizations, like the Summit Area YMCA, charities, and foundations, whether it’s monetary or by volunteering your time; donating shelf stable foods to food drives and local pantries; donating clothing to coat drives; by visiting a blood drive to give some assistance to local hospitals; or by taking action by volunteering at community events and participating in local projects.
LOL
LOL is the Summit Area YMCA’s Annual Laugh Out Loud Charity Auction and Comedy Night Fundraiser. Attendees enjoy a night of laughter and drinks, but more importantly the funds raised support a number of programs at the Summit Area YMCA including special needs programs, college and career mentoring for high school students, weekend meals for elementary children and their families in need during the school, and subsidized memberships for military families.
“The LOL event is a great way to support meaningful programs at the Y. By raising your paddle, you aren’t just buying a fun gift or package for yourself—you’re also helping a family get the childcare they need because they only have one parent in the household. You can help a child with special needs feel included and welcomed in a safe space. You can help a teen get the support they need in preparing for colleges and jobs.” said Paul Kieltyka, President & CEO of the Summit Area YMCA.
Date: 2023 TBD
ANNUAL CAMPAIGN
The Summit Area YMCA – one of the area’s leading 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit organizations – made a promise to the community in 1886 to keep our programs and services accessible to all. We deepen our impact as we transform lives for the better by nurturing the potential and well-being of our children, promoting healthy living among all, and strengthening a sense of caring and social responsibility across our community.
Why does the Summit Area YMCA have the Annual Campaign?
The Y’s financial assistance program is 100% funded by donations. Membership fees cover our facilities, salaries, and other operating expenses but do not fund our financial assistance program. The financial investment in our organization from our members, staff, and community members ensures that our doors are open to all, regardless of financial circumstance. From supporting our Special Needs programs to helping a child learn how to swim for free in our 2nd Grade Learn to Swim program, or teaching a child healthy habits as a 7th grader with a free Y membership, or helping LIVESTRONG Cancer survivors to rehabilitate in mind and body, these are just a few examples of how the Summit Area YMCA provides opportunities for all to learn, grow, and thrive.