On
April 4th,
the YMCA of the Cayman Islands has launched its 10-week, annual
fundraising campaign to provide access to the variety of youth
character-building programmes they provide. Also known as the “Caring
Campaign”, funds raised provide financial assistance for all
segments of the community to attend Y Day Camp, the Extended
After-School Programme (EASP), Teen Leadership, and participation in
the new YMCA Ropes Challenge Course. As a charitable, non-profit
organisation, the Y relies on this community support each year to
positively impact youth in our community, regardless of their current
financial circumstances.

“Every
year, the Y relies on the generosity of individuals and businesses to
support our work and provide programmes and services, especially for
those who require financial assistance,” explained Greg Smith, CEO
of the YMCA. “Each donation, however big or small, has an impact in
the life of a child. The community has been very supportive of the Y,
which provides affirmation that we are addressing challenges that
resonate with many people. Beyond fundraising, the Y uses this time
of year to share the message of not just what we do, but what we
stand for, which is at the heart of all we do”. Smith added, “there
is not one social challenge we face as a community that cannot be
vastly improved by instilling core values such as honesty, respect,
and responsibility in our young people. Every programme the Y offers
is a tool to develop these values”.

The
new Board Chairman, David Watler, stated “the Y is truly humbled
and grateful for the strong community support”, which he also
believes is a result of focusing on the most pertinent issues of our
society. “We look forward to continuing our mission to inspire
youth, build character and strengthen community. We want everyone who
supports the Y cause to know they are making a sound investment in
our community, and we accept the responsibility that comes with it to
maximise the return.”

Mr.
Watler added that any amount can make a difference, and the entire
volunteer Board of Directors and staff of the Y contribute to the
campaign. “We have many part-time staff who don’t make a large
salary, but still support the campaign because they see first-hand
the results the programmes have on our youth”. Setting aside the
cost of a cup of coffee once a month can help send a child to camp or
teach them to swim, having a powerful impact”.

The
EASP is a partnership with the Ministry of Education, serving up to
1600 students from public schools across Grand Cayman and Cayman
Brac, while the Teen Leaders training reaches 75-plus young people
between the ages of 13 to 17. The Day Camps provide a safe and
well-supervised environment for over 750 kids during summer and
school breaks, plus the new Ropes Challenge Course is helping
individuals improve critical communication, team-building, trust,
planning and problem-solving skills.

One
parent who has benefited from the annual campaign donations stated
“Financial assistance from the Y has allowed my daughter to
participate in the most rewarding spirit/self-esteem building and
skill learning opportunities that any child would benefit from in so
many different ways. The impact of each of the team leaders and
counsellors has offered her a complete sense of belonging.”

For
more information about the YMCA Cayman Islands’ Caring Campaign,
log on to www.ymcacayman.ky,
email info@ymcacayman.ky or
call 926.9622.