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

I feel so privileged to be able to give back to Powhatan County through my involvement with the ERL Powhatan YMCA. Our Y, like all YMCA's, is the heartbeat of the community and continues to positively impact the lives of our youth, families and adults. I am so proud that regardless of age, income or background everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive at the Y. It is a joy to see the ERL Powhatan Y at work in our community and know the positive impact our facility and programs have on individuals and families. Everyday our Y makes a difference in people’s lives. I encourage you to join me and the many, many others who feel blessed to be able to help make a difference, to strengthen our community by giving back through the Y.

 

Annual Support Campaign

The Elizabeth Randolph Lewis YMCA provides about $200,000 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.

FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

Middle School and Junior High At-Risk Programs: Thirty at-risk junior high and middle school students receive academic assistance and guidance to improve education, exercise and nutrition every week throughout the school year. Students improve their social skills, respect for each other, education and healthy recreation opportunities in our pool and wellness center.

 

Keeping the Children in Our Community Active: Financial assistance gives children, who would not otherwise be able to pay for these programs, every opportunity to engage in fun activities with other children. This allows children to become involved in child care, camps and youth sports programs.

FOR HEALTHY LIVING
Seventh Grade Membership Enrichment Program: About 30 seventh graders from Powhatan Junior High School benefit from a free membership to the Y during the school year that encourages healthy living and positive lifelong habits.

FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Single Moms Program: Single moms improve their parenting skills and enhance their physical and social well-being as they offer a healthier life and brighter future for their children. Single moms benefit from one-on-one coaching from Y staff. The children benefit from additional services such as youth fitness programs, swim lessons and family nights.

Community Support: We provide financial assistance for those seeking membership at our Y, regardless of income. The ability to engage in healthy activities that will foster healthy relationships within our Y and our community help us to fulfill our mission. We anticipate that one in three members who join the Powhatan Y in 2013 will need financial assistance to enable them to take part in our many programs and offerings. Cost should not be a barrier to joining the Y family.