YMCA Launches 'The Y Saves Lives' Campaign to Double Community Impact and Transform Lives

Hamilton, Ontario, April 22, 2024 — The YMCA of Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford is about to transform countless lives through its ambitious philanthropic initiative, The Y Saves Lives. This campaign seeks to raise $25 million to significantly enhance the YMCA’s capacity to meet urgent community needs, aiming to double the reach of crucial services that promote health, well-being, and empowerment.

Manny Figueiredo, President & CEO of YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford, emphasizes the campaign’s broad scope: “The Y Saves Lives is more than an expansion of services—it's a commitment to transformative impact across our communities. We’re calling on everyone who values a healthier, more inclusive society to help us empower individuals and families to thrive amidst challenges.”

At the heart of The Y Saves Lives are stories of individuals dramatically helped by the YMCA. Tom overcame homelessness and addiction; Kayla rebuilt her life after fleeing human trafficking; Myles reversed a spiral into severe depression; and Armando, in his 90s, found vital community support that helped him combat isolation. These stories underline the YMCA’s essential role in providing opportunities and support where it’s most needed.

“The community’s support is crucial as we aim to extend these lifelines and broaden our impact to assist more people like Tom, Kayla, Myles, and Armando,” Figueiredo adds.

The Y Saves Lives campaign raises awareness about the wide array of services in the YMCA’s ecosystem, as philanthropic efforts further enhance the mission’s reach and impact. This multi-year initiative will improve access for those facing barriers, strengthen recovery programs for trafficking survivors, and enhance educational, career development, mental health, and active aging programs. Our targeted approach prioritizes the needs of young people and seniors in underserved communities, ensuring they receive the essential support needed to thrive.

Join us in making a difference. Discover how you can support The Y Saves Lives campaign and help us and our fundraising partner, Alinea Land Corporation who is matching donations, to expand our impact, providing critical services that save lives and build stronger communities. Your contribution brings hope and practical help to those in need.

#ShineOn #YSavesLives
 

Media Contact:

Shawn McKillop, APR 
Senior Vice President, Communications and Digital Transformation 
YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford 
905-317-4900 | shawn.mckillop@ymcahbb.ca 
 

 At the YMCA, we support people at every stage of life, helping them overcome any obstacle they may face. When you donate to the YMCA you spark the potential in every young person, adult and senior.

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