For many children, families and adults, the Y is a family. It is a place to come where they can learn, grow and thrive. But many need your help to benefit from this opportunity.

You know the faces of need in our community as well as we do: children in need of safe care and educational support; teens in need of positive role models and activities; and families who need a place to spend time together where they can grow in spirit, mind and body.

The YMCA of Greater Richmond is committed to meeting these needs and others through such programs as child care, camp, youth sports and health and wellness. Your gift improves a life. It keeps the Y open to all, making sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive through the Y.

Learn how the YMCA of Greater Richmond is building Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility.

A Message from the Annual Giving Chair

Tracey Spain Estes

When considering a financial gift, my top two requirements are first, that I know exactly where the funds are going, and secondly, that I personally believe in the cause. The Y is both for me because, as a board member, I see how wisely they use the dollars and serve the community. And who doesn't want to help their own community, their own friends, neighbors, and classmates? By donating at the Y I know my dollars are being used here in Chester VA to assist with so many community needs. I'm proud of that. I want my donation to count so I give to the YMCA. Please consider a financial gift to the Y so you can share in the warmth that comes from giving back to your community.

Annual Support Campaign

The Chester Family YMCA provides almost $780,000 in assistance to our members and program participants through reduced membership and program fees, and through such programs as YMCA Bright Beginnings and Learn to Swim. Your contribution to the Strengthening Communities Fund keeps the Y open to all.

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Before- and After-School: 132 children from six schools will benefit from before- and after-school child care. Your gift enables parents to maintain gainful employment while their kids enjoy daily academic assistance, nutritious snacks, physical exercise and character-enhancing activities. We anticipate one out of three children will receive financial assistance to participate. Y Camp provides outdoor adventures throughout the summer.

YMCA Leaders’ Club and Teen Camps: 54 teens will discover who they are and what they can achieve, through leadership development and community service. In the summer, teens reach their potential while participating in camp programs.

FOR HEALTHY LIVING
Community Support: We anticipate that nearly one out of two members who join the Chester Y in 2013 will need financial assistance to take part in our many programs and offerings. The Y is a safe, supportive place for all ages to build healthy spirit, mind and body. Families grow closer playing together in the gymnasium and pool. Seniors build endurance and develop friendships in group exercise classes and walking the track. Cost will not be a barrier to joining the Y family.

FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Transforming Neighborhoods in Our Community

• Colonial Ridge
• Broadwater
• Greenleigh

The Chester Family YMCA is committed to serving children in our most vulnerable neighborhoods. For Colonial Ridge, a Section 8 community, a fully subsidized after-school and summer camp program keeps 30 children safe and engaged. In Broadwater, a similar community, Teen Nights, Kids Night Out and special events on school breaks engage children in safe, positive activities. In Greenleigh, a trailer park that is home to more than 500 youth, a community partnership ensures that children have life-changing opportunities for tutoring and homework assistance, youth sports and more.