YMCA Giving Week
March 14th through 21st
Each year, during Giving Week, the Y asks our community to donate to our Annual Appeal. These donations go directly to enabling the YMCA of Metro North to give everyone an opportunity to participate in our programs and services and a chance to belong.
We dedicate this week to raising awareness that your gift does more than support a program. Your donations open doors to swim lessons that save lives, safe spaces for teens after school, wellness programs for seniors, and scholarships for families who need us the most.
The power of the Y is in our community. It’s neighbors helping neighbors—in the gym, on the courts, in the classrooms, and today, right here online. Your support helps ensure that everyone has access to the programs, resources, and connections they need to thrive.
Every gift stays local and makes an immediate impact. From helping a child attend camp, to providing meals for families, to supporting cancer survivors through LIVESTRONG and adaptive fitness programs, 100% of your donation directly helps others to belong at the Y.
Meet the Members you Help Impact!
Born with Chiari Malformation and facing ongoing developmental challenges, John has found strength, confidence, and joy through the swim program at the Demakes Family YMCA. With the support of specialized instructors, he is building motor skills, independence, and water safety while feeling truly included. For John and his family, the Y is more than a program—it is a lifelong community of care.
After moving to a new town, Lucas felt alone and unsure of where he belonged. A Y scholarship opened the door to Camp Eastman and Y Academy, where he found friends, mentors, and the confidence to be himself. Today, Lucas proudly shares his Y story, grateful to donors who gave him a place to grow, belong, and dream big. A scholarship allowed Lucas to attend camp, learn and make friends that carried into school and leadership programs. Because of sponsorships, the Y became his second home, and his future feels brighter.
Al recently returned to Melrose, the town where he grew up, to be closer to his family. After a head injury nearly 40 years ago, finding a supportive community was vital for his well-being. At the Y, Al feels accepted and loved, and he’s thriving in ways he never imagined. Since joining, he’s made incredible progress in his health and strength, and he loves the feeling of getting stronger every day. Al journey is truly inspiring, reminding us all of the power of perseverance and community.
Donna Marotta has been a dedicated and happy member of the Y for many years, regularly participating in fitness classes. After being diagnosed with cancer, her treatment made it impossible for her to continue attending. When her treatment ended, she noticed information about the LiveSTRONG program and enrolled in the Fall session. The program proved to be a transformative experience. With the support and guidance of the instructors, Donna regained her strength and confidence, and she thoroughly enjoyed every class.
Examples of How Your Gift Changes a Life:
- $650 helps siblings attend camp together.
- $325 gives a child a week of friendship and outdoor fun at camp.
- $50 provides a child a swimsuit, towel, lunch bag and backpack for camp.
- $600 enables kids to become fearless around the water with lessons for the year.
- $130 provides a session to make waves towards learning.
- $65 gives a child four weeks in the water with a certified training.
- $1,000 provides 20 individuals finding a healthy community.
- $50 gives a cancer survivor a supportive group.
- $100 helps support weekly meals to families in the community.
- $250 provides a teen a year-long membership and a safe place to belong.
- $100 gives a family membership for a month to connect with other families.
- $50 provides a senior membership for one month and opportunity to socialize.