Why give to the Y?

“I’ve been a member of the Y for ten years.  Originally we joined so we could bring the baby swimming.  What I didn’t know then was how important the Y would become to me and the kids, seeing us through a divorce, solo parenting, and very reduced funds. Now as a single parent, receiving a scholarship, I can only begin to describe how important the Y has been to our family – a place of community, fun, activities, and stress-releasing exercise for me, and a place where my active ten year old can be independent and safe.  At Child Watch, my son can do his homework, play games and, of course, there is still the swimming -- now for all of us. I am so grateful that you have provided a place for us in this community” - Y member

“Both of my children have been campers at Camp Norwich for many years and have both had nothing but outstanding experiences.  When we started our teenage daughter there years ago we had to utilize the scholarship money for our child to attend.  Year after year we were able to financially move from a full scholarship, up the sliding scale, to paying full enrollment this year.  As our financial situation continues to improve we look forward to donating to Camp Norwich so other families can enjoy this amazing experience.  My children have both prioritized Camp Norwich as a highlight of every summer.  As a parent, knowing that we were able to attend, regardless of our financial situation, makes this camp a pillar of our wonderful community.  I will continue to promote this camp and do everything I can to ensure it continues to be available in our community.” - Y member

"I love the work I do helping people in need. As a social worker, there are so many rewarding aspects to my work. Being able to provide a healing relationship to others and witness people achieving their life goals is invaluable. I learn so many things from my clients. I would not trade it! To provide this emotional care, I find it so important to connect, revitalize, laugh, and release. Being a member of the YMCA allows me to do these things. I come to the Y six days a week. I love that I'm always greeted with a smile and warmly welcomed. My favorite classes are yoga, Tabata fusion, muscle conditioning and for the ultimate fun and release – Zumba. How great that at the end of a rewarding, yet challenging week, I get to dance! I also get the benefit of sending my teenage son to Y programs. He has done Camp Norwich for 3 summers and enjoys connecting with old friends and meeting new ones. He also takes advantage of being able to meet friends in the youth lounge and shooting hoops on the basketball court. It is so comforting to know he has a place he can grow and flourish. It should be no surprise that social workers do critical work in caring for others and yet get paid low salaries.  The support I receive from the Y makes it possible for me to take care of myself  so that I can take care of others, both my children and my clients. Thank you to all that make it possible for me to be part of the Y family." – Y member

"The Y gave me the support I needed, both personally and professionally, to significantly improve my life. My family moved here about 4 years ago. I have four children ages 3 to 13 and my husband and I felt this area would be a good place to raise them. As a one-income household we have to watch where we spend our money so being eligible for financial assistance from the Y has had a lifelong impact on our family. When we first started coming to the Y my youngest was 6 weeks old, I was overweight, and I didn’t have a clue about exercise! The Y provided a place for me to not only get healthy but also a place for my children to build connections and grow. The Child Watch at the Y is an amazing place. They provide top notch service and a place of relief for mothers who are home with their children. The Y’s Child Watch program gave me the time I needed each day - without having to worry about my children’s safety and happiness. The staff provides all children with loving, consistent care each and every day. Today, my youngest is in preschool and I believe all my children are doing well in part because of what they received at the Y. I am very happy to now be able to pay it forward at the Y as a trainer and group exercise instructor. I am the strongest I’ve ever been, and I get stronger every day. I am forever grateful to the community at the Hampshire Regional YMCA." - Y member