$10K raised towards building Strong Kids on BC’s Family Day
The H20 Adventure + Fitness Centre and Kelowna Family Y, both facilities operated by the YMCA of the Okanagan, launched their fundraising efforts for the 2013 Strong Kids Campaign on BC’s Family Day.
The Family Day events at both centres were a huge success with hundreds of families spending time getting active and having fun together. Admission to the facilities that day was free; however the community generously opened their wallets to support the Y’s Strong Kids Campaign and along with matching funds from Melcor Developments Ltd, over $10,000 was raised in one day!
“To ensure that no one is turned away due to an inability to pay, the YMCA provides financial assistance to those unable to afford the full cost of the Y’s programs and services,” says Todd Simpson, YMCA Strong Kids Chair. “Last year, the Y raised $198,000 through the Strong Kids Campaign and awarded over $250,000 in financial sponsorship to send a child to camp, to teach them how to swim, to provide them with child care, or to give them a place to belong through a Y membership.”
As our economy continues to struggle, so do those living on or below the poverty line. As BCs childhood poverty rate sits at 20%, the highest in the country, the need for financial assistance in our community continues to grow, which is why the YMCA is asking for the public’s support.
“When you donate to the campaign, you will make a difference to a child in your community, as 100 percent of every dollar raised is used to positively impact children and youth living in the Okanagan,” says Simpson. “It’s through the generosity of the community that the YMCA is able to help families from all walks of life be more healthy, confident, connected, and secure.”
To learn more about the Y’s Strong Kids Campaign and the lives it impacts please visit our Strong Kids page. Donations for the Strong Kids Campaign are gratefully accepted online, in person at either the H20 or Kelowna family Y, or by mail at 375 Hartman Road, Kelowna BC, V1X 2M9.
Like us on Facebook to view our photo album from the event!
