YMCA in Medina sets $30K fundraising goal for community access to services

MEDINA – GLOW YMCA has announced launch of its Strong Communities Annual Campaign at the Orleans County branch in Medina.

Strong Communities Campaign is an annual fundraising effort dedicated to ensuring that everyone in the community has access to the YMCA’s life-changing programs and services, regardless of financial circumstances, according to Andrew Houseman, senior program director at the YMCA in Medina.

This year, GLOW YMCA has set a fundraising goal of $30,000 to provide critical financial assistance for children, families and individuals across the region.

“The YMCA is a place for all,” Houseman said. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to belong, grow and thrive. Our Strong Communities Annual Campaign allows us to ensure that everyone – from children and families to seniors in our community, have support and access to our facility. We are proud to provide a place that has such a positive impact on individual’s health, development and overall well-being.”

Each year the campaign is supported by volunteers, staff, donors and community partners who work together to raise funds that make a direct impact locally, Houseman said. Through this collective effort, the YMCA continues to provide a welcoming space where people of all ages can build connections, develop healthy habits and reach their full potential.

The impact of the Strong Communities Annual Campaign can be seen in the lives of the families and individuals who benefit from YMCA programs every day, Houseman added.

An example is Josh, who found staying active and improving his health wasn’t always easy. Before finding the YMCA, even getting to a fitness facility depended on whether he had access to a bike, making consistency a challenge. That changed when he connected with a life planner through the ARC. Through that partnership, Josh was able to receive support with transportation and access YMCA financial assistance to help cover the cost of membership.

With those barriers removed, everything began to change for Josh.

At the YMCA he found more than just a place to work out. He found a routine, a sense of purpose and a welcoming community. He now spends his time building strength and staying active, whether it’s riding the stationary bike, walking on the treadmill or using strength equipment.

 But for Josh, it’s about more than physical fitness, Houseman explained.

“I like to listen to music and just get in the zone,” Josh shared. “The YMCA makes me feel like I’m building muscle, feeling healthier and just better overall. Without it, I wouldn’t feel as good or as healthy.”

Beyond the equipment and workouts, the YMCA has given Josh something even more meaningful – connection. Whether he’s seeing friends, spending time around others or even running into family members like his aunt, the Y provides a space where he feels engaged and part of something bigger, Houseman said.

“There’s a lot to do here, and it’s fun,” Josh said.

Josh also credits his life planner for helping him stay motivated, offering encouragement and guidance along the way. That support system, combined with access to the YMCA, has made a lasting difference in his life.

Stories like Josh’s are a powerful reminder of what’s possible when barriers are removed, Houseman added. Through strong community partnerships and financial assistance, the YMCA ensures individuals of all abilities have access to the resources, support and connects they need to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Through the YMCA’s Strong Communities Campaign, individuals like Josh are not only improving their health, they are building confidence, finding belonging and discovering new possibilities.

“Because at the Y, everyone deserves the opportunity to grow, connect and thrive,” Houseman said.

Community members and local businesses are encouraged to support the Strong Communities Annual Campaign through donations, sponsorships and volunteer efforts. Every contribution helps the GLOW YMCA continue to strengthen the community and expand opportunities for all.

For more information about the Strong Communities Annual Campaign or to make a donation, visit www.glowymca.org or contact Houseman at ahouseman@glowymca.org.