'Strong Kids' Fundraising Launched at YMCAs

Louise Galluccio found the YMCA when she was looking for a place where she could connect with others after moving to the township a year ago.

Not only has she made new friends, she was also inspired to begin an exercise program that helped her to lose 35 pounds, prompting her physician to congratulate her on her improved health and wellness.

“I never realized how much the Y had to offer people of all ages,” said Ms. Galluccio, 57. “The staff and members are friendly and helpful and they motivated me to do all kinds of things, swimming, cardio and aerobics. And with the support I get from my friends at the Y, I have been able to maintain my good health.”

To ensure the Y can provide all community residents with the same life-enhancing services, the Somerset Valley YMCA, a charitable non-profit organization, is launching its annual Strong Kids fundraising campaign on Feb. 5 at the Hillsborough Family Y from 7 -8 p.m.

As the leading non-profit for strengthening the foundations of community, the Y is kicking off its fourth annual support campaign so that it can continue to make an impact in the neighborhoods it serves.

Drawing on the idea that one gift can snowball into a community of giving, this year’s fundraising theme is “It Starts with One.” In keeping with the theme, the Hillsborough Family YMCA will transform itself into a Winter Wonderland.

All Y members and community members are invited for food, fun and fellowship. Children and families are welcome and are asked to RSVP to erind@ymcasomersetvalley.org.

This year, the Y’s goal is to raise $164,000, an increase over the $155,000 raised in 2012.

“The YMCA is here to meet the needs of our community and to make a positive impact on the lives of adults, children, teens and seniors,” said Paul Kieltyka, chief executive officer. “Through our support campaign, we want to educate people that we are a non-profit organization that does vital work, thanks to your donations.

“We also want the community to know that we never turn anyone away from our programs and services because they can’t pay,” he said.

Last year, financial assistance provided by the Y made it possible for kids to have a safe place to learn and play and for families to grow together and improve their health and wellness. Aid was available to ensure seniors could afford access to social outlets and fitness opportunities and teens could enjoy a safe place to meet and engage.

In 2012, the Y provided more than $550,000 in subsidies for people in need, as well as to support community initiatives for health and wellness, water safety and confidence-building programs.

The Y is a 501©3 nonprofit charitable organization focusing on the areas of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Somerset Valley YMCA has branches located in Bridgewater, Hillsborough and Somerville, but also serves surrounding communities with social services. The Y offers full day childcare, after-school programs, aquatics, teen activities, fitness classes, summer day camp, senior programs and more.

To make a donation, call any Somerset Valley YMCA Branch or visitwww.ymcastrongkids.org.