PRYMCA kicks off Annual Campaign
DOVER-FOXCROFT — This week, the Piscataquis Regional YMCA kicked off its Annual Campaign. The campaign is scheduled to run through the end of 2015 with a goal of raising $60,000.
While this is her first year as campaign chair, Janet Sawyer is excited to help tell the YMCA’s story. “The YMCA has been a part of our community for over 25 years,” Sawyer said, “And the Annual Campaign is an opportunity to share our story.
An example of a “Y Story” came to Sawyer with a recent campaign donation. Peggy Weare has been a member of the YMCA for many years and with her donation this year, she sent a note saying, “Two surgeries, vertigo and a bum knee and I’m still plugging away.” Weare goes on to say, “Most important is the camaraderie. Sick or well, I go; because I know that my buddy next to me may be aching, too.” Sawyer says that there are many welcoming groups at the YMCA for all ages and abilities.
With its focus on youth development, healthy living and social Responsibility, the YMCA is dedicated to good health and wellbeing for seniors, children and everyone in between. “The Y is open to everyone in the community,” Sawyer said. “Our Annual Campaign supports our scholarship program so we can provide services regardless of our members’ ability to pay.”
Sawyer said that they were most proud of being able to provide scholarships to the child care program so that parents can go to work confident that their children are receiving excellent care. “This year the Y became a fully licensed child care facility and with our capacity and low rates we’re able to provide wonderful educational experiences to many children who might not access it otherwise.”
Sawyer said that the YMCA will be contacting people over the next month to ask that they support the mission. Thanks to the generosity of early donors, fundraisers, staff and the board of directors they only need to raise about $15,000 toward the $60,000 target. “We’re close to reaching our goal,” Sawyer said. “Every donation is welcome no matter how small …. or how big!”
Anyone interested in the programs or services of the YMCA, or who wants to make a donation, can call 564-7111, stop by 48 Park Street or visit www.prymca.org. The Piscataquis Regional YMCA is a cause-driven organization that is committed to the community and dedicated to promoting healthy spirit, mind, and body for all, through programs and services grounded in Christian heritage and the core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.