Mary* nervously walked through the front doors of the Bear Levin Studer Y, hoping to find a friendly face. She asked the young woman at the Welcome Center: “Do people like me belong here?” You see, Mary is a plus-size woman who had never belonged to a fitness facility before. “Girl, everybody belongs here!” was the reply she received.
After a tour, Mary learned the Y even offered financial assistance, which was a game changer for her – a single parent working for a better future for herself and her son.
Months later at work, Mary met a member of one of the families whose generous gift made her Y membership possible. She broke into tears, explaining that when she walked into the Y, she felt welcome and not judged. She called her membership at the Y “life changing” for herself and her son. Mary hugged this donor and thanked him.
Not every member who receives a scholarship has had the opportunity that Mary had to personally thank a donor. But she is among the 13% of members who receive financial assistance that enables them to be a part of the Y community.
Every day, we offer scholarships for membership, programs such as afterschool and summer camp, swim lessons and more. Every day, dozens of Mary's walk through the doors of our Y and step on a treadmill, or ease into a lap lane, or join a group exercise class. Every day, we changes lives – including lives of our neighbors who may be challenged by their financial circumstances.
Because of our donors – people just like you – that is possible.
Every spring, we share the Y story – Mary’s story – and invite our members and the community to donate to our Annual Campaign so that we can always say YES. Last year, we had a mission impact of $403,000 in the two-county area. That’s the total value of programs and services that we gave back to the community.
Today, you have the opportunity to give at whatever level is good for you, the opportunity to share the Y experience with someone who might not otherwise have the opportunity.
You can build a stronger community and create a better us with your gift.
*This member’s name has been changed to protect her privacy.