Press release:
Generous donors to the YMCA of Western North Carolina’s annual fundraising campaign contributed more than $700,000 in 2017. This will enable the YMCA of WNC to expand its funding for charitable programs such as nutrition education and outreach, overnight camp scholarships, falls prevention classes for seniors, and supportive groups for cancer survivors.
The Y’s annual campaign ensures that no one is turned away for an inability to pay as they pursue their personal journeys to grow healthier in spirit, mind, and body. In 2016 the YMCA of WNC provided more than $3 million in financial assistance to thousands of individuals and families in Buncombe, Henderson, and McDowell counties.
One of those grateful recipients participates in the Y’s Taking Control of Type 2 program, which helps people manage type 2 diabetes. “My health was so bad I stopped going out. I even stopped going to church and I live right next door,” he said. “Since I started the TCT2 program at the Y I come three times a week to swim. I started just walking in the pool. Now I can swim 2 miles every time I come to swim. The TCT2 program has saved my life and I’m forever thankful.”
The Y’s charitable impact is made possible by the extraordinary generosity of our donors, says Paul Vest, president and CEO of the YMCA of WNC.
“By helping us surpass our campaign goal this year, children will learn lifesaving water safety skills and have safe spaces where they can spend their afternoons,” Vest said. “A person struggling in their fight against diabetes will receive the support they need to meet and exceed their personal health goals. As we open even more doors, this will be just a sliver of the impact The Y will be able to have this year as we strive to work and support all.”
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