Somerset County YMCA has reached its initial fundraising goal with pledges of more than $708,000 to its 2015 annual campaign.
On Feb. 18, the YMCA kicked off the campaign with a goal of raising $700,000. The funds ensure the Y can open its doors to all in the community, regardless of ability to pay.
“We are extremely grateful for the generosity of our members and community partners who share our commitment to strengthening the foundation of our community,” said David M. Carcieri, president and CEO. “The funds raised in our annual campaign help us to ensure a brighter future for all. Thanks to our volunteers and donors, we are able to offer financial assistance and vital services to those who need it most, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to become healthy, confident and connected to their community.”
Staff at the Bridgewater, Hillsborough, Somerset Hills and Somerville YMCAs donating $67,535. In addition, 100 percent of board members contributed to the campaign.
For the 2015 campaign, 195 volunteers worked on behalf of the Somerset County YMCA to raise funds.
“When I joined the Y, I didn’t realize it was a charitable organization. Having been a volunteer for other organizations, I was delighted to take part in this year’s campaign,” said Beverley Clayton Perks, who teamed up with another volunteer, Jo Greaney, to assist in the fundraising effort. “It is wonderful to give back by raising funds for all the great work the Y does in the community.”
Direct financial assistance from Somerset County YMCA branches supports local individuals and families with services they otherwise could not afford, such as child care, summer camp and membership. Additionally, Y branches subsidize mission-based programs and services that benefit the community, including Saturdays in Motion, a free recreational program for children with autism and their families; LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, a free program to help cancer survivors begin the journey to recovery; and the Enhance Fitness Program, a partnership with Hillsborough Township to give hope and strength to seniors who suffer from arthritis.
Wendy Marin of Raritan described how she came to the Y from a shelter, received financial assistance and improved her health through regular exercise. With the support of staff and members, she gained the confidence and self-esteem she needed to go back to school.
“The Y helped me achieve my goals,” said Ms. Marin. “At the Y, there’s so much warmth and compassion. It has changed my life.”
In 2014, the Somerset County YMCA’s branches provided more than $769,000 in financial assistance to community residents for membership, child care, summer camp, and other services, as well as over $600,000 in support of free or low-cost programs and services that benefit the community.
“The reality is that the need for financial assistance in our community is greater than the amount raised,” Mr. Carcieri said. “The economy has been a major factor leading to the increase in financial assistance requests, as so many jobs have been lost. Somerset County is relatively affluent area and people do not always realize there is a need right here in our own backyard.”
Despite having reached its initial goal, the Y says the need for financial assistance among residents continues to grow.
“As an organization that serves the county, we chose the theme ‘Better Together’ for our campaign because we know that when we work collaboratively we will be more successful and increase our ability to do more good in our community,” said Theresa Valentino, chief development officer. “We encourage everyone to join our cause by making a gift.”
For information about the annual campaign or to make a gift, contact Kelly Castro, annual fund director, at [email protected] or 908.766.7898 ext. 100 or visit www.somersetcountyymca.org/give.
