Frequently Asked Questions
Aren't membership and program fees enough to support the YMCA of Centre County?
The fees the YMCA charges for membership and programs are used to cover the costs to staff, operate and maintain YMCA facilities and programs. Without charitable donations, we would not be able to fulfill our mission to serve all who need us and be available for everyone. We simply would not have the funding without generous support of people and organizations in our community. Last year the YMCA of Centre County gave out $314,668 in direct financial assistance (Open Doors memberships) to more than 2,000 people, the majority of whom were children, teens, families or seniors. Because of the support of our Annual Campaign donors, no one was turned away due to inability to pay.
What is the Annual Giving Campaign?
Funds raised through this campaign support the most pressing needs of our members and community, including financial assistance (Open Doors), youth development and more. The Annual Giving Campaign ensures that the YMCA is available to all. As one of YMCA of Centre County's highest priorities, annual giving is the means by which YMCA staff, board members, members, friends and local businesses can most effectively contribute their charitable support for the YMCA each year. Every Campaign dollar is used exclusively to support the community's needs. The YMCA encourages participation at all giving levels. 100% of campaign dollars go directly to helping your neighbors--kids, families and adults who are in need of the Y’s resources and support. No dollars are spent on administrative services or fees.
How does someone get financial assistance / Open Doors membership?
If someone requests financial assistance, they submit a confidential application and supporting documentation to the YMCA. The YMCA determines need and appropriate assistance based on this information. The Y requires all financial assistance recipients to pay a portion of the program or membership fee, even if the amount they can afford is small.
Does my gift really make a difference?
YES! Every gift, regardless of size, makes a difference. The gifts from many friends of the Y quickly add up.
Does the YMCA accept Matching Gifts?
Yes. Corporate matching gifts are encouraged. Donors simply gather their company's matching gift form and submit it to the YMCA with their gift. The YMCA promptly completes the matching gift form and returns it to the corporation.
Will I receive a receipt for my gift?
All donors receive an IRS compliant thank you note for your tax reporting purposes.
Can I make a gift in honor or memory of a friend or loved one?
Tribute and memorial gifts are certainly welcome at any time. The donor will be provided a tax compliant thank you note. The individual (or his or her family) will receive an acknowledgement from the YMCA noting that a gift has been made in honor or memory. The donor's name and address will be provided to the family so that they can acknowledge your generosity, but the YMCA does not share the gift value with the family.
Can I give to the YMCA through the United Way?
You may designate your United Way donation to the YMCA. However, doing so does not increase the allocation the YMCA receives from the United Way. United Way provides important support to the YMCA; however, it is only a small percentage of our overall operating budget. The United Way encourages the YMCA and all of its member agencies to seek additional financial support from members, leaders and friends in the community. There are certainly individuals and corporations that want to and will give outside of their United Way participation. These donors recognize the community’s need for greater services beyond the funding ability of the United Way.
How can I get more information about supporting the Y?
Theresa Mast, Development Director
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814-237-7717