Bed-Stuy YMCA Kicks off Strong Kids Campaign

Each year, the YMCA of Greater New York provides over $46 million in financial assistance to tens of thousands of local youth and families in need. These requests are now rising to unprecedented levels.

Contributions to the YMCA’s annual Strong Kids Campaign ensure that no child or family is turned away from life-enhancing YMCA programs because of the inability to pay.

The YMCA exists to promote the healthy development of all kids and their families regardless of their financial means. Each dollar contributed to the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign goes directly to making YMCA programs and membership available to those in need.

Last night, the Bedford-Stuyvesant YMCA, located on Bedford Avenue between Gates and Monroe Avenues, held its annual “Strong Kids Campaign” fundraising benefit. Bed-Stuy YMCA’s fundraising goal this year is $190,000.

YMCA staff, local volunteers, parents and children all came out to what was a pep rally where the kids performed dance routines, cheered, sang and put on skits.

At last night’s event, The Bed-Stuy YMCA honored donors who have been giving to the YMCA and its community for the past twenty or more years. Regular donor, Glen Breedy, was honored again this year (as he is every year), for his $20,000 contribution.

“I don’t even live in Bed-Stuy; I haven’t for years,” said Breedy. “But I grew up in this YMCA. It nurtured me. Once I got older and moved away, I saw it through the years go downhill and then build itself back up.  But I always have and always will be a supporter of this YMCA.

“Because, you never know: This could be that one safe haven that turns a kid’s life around-- at least, that’s what it was for me.”

To make a donation to the YMCA’s Strong Kids Campaign, you may visit the center and speak with a desk manager, who will assist you. Or, you may go online and donate directly through the YMCA website.