I have a very important question to ask you. Can the South Brunswick Family YMCA count on you to help us serve you and the community better?

First, I want to tell you why my family has supported the South Brunswick Family YMCA with a charitable donation every year since 1998.

You may know that I was a volunteer at the South Brunswick Family YMCA for 5 years before taking on the role of Executive Director in 2004. I made working at the South Brunswick Family Y my career because I care deeply for our community and believe in the Y's mission of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

I see the difference that the Y makes in the lives of people who walk through our doors every day. The Y is so much more than an indoor pool and fitness equipment. We are a childcare with qualified teachers instructing our youngest members self-confidence; after school programs with homework support, teaching our children how to have healthy lifestyles; summer camp with enthusiastic counselors guiding our pre-teens and teens to make good choices; health and wellness classes from qualified instructors educating, motivating and encouraging our adults to exercise to reduce the risk of heart disease. Most important, scholarships for neighbors who can't afford to participate without support from our Y….YOUR Y -- a valuable resource for the community.

I hear from many of our members about how the Y has impacted their lives. Here is an example:

“I have a daughter and a son with special needs who use the Y programs. I have worked out a regular family routine to take advantage of the Fitness Center and pool. I am thankful for all the Y has done for my family during our time of need. I am very pleased with the Y programs.”

The Y does not receive government or any other outside agencies support to cover operating expenses, and membership and childcare fees do not cover our entire operating budget. We rely on the generosity of our members, local residents and businesses to make up the difference so we can carry out our mission to serve the community. Approximately 97 cents of every donated dollar goes to serve members and the community through programs and services.

So, can the South Brunswick Family YMCA count on you to help us serve you and the community better? We hope your answer starts with a Y, and it's YES!

Our Annual Support Brochure is filled with information. And, you can watch a short video on the campaign here.

You can download our Annual Support Campaign Pledge Card and drop it in the mail or leave it at our Welcome Center during your next visit to the Y. You can even donate online here.

Please make your tax-deductable donation to the South Brunswick Family YMCA. Drop it in the mail or stop by the Welcome Center to make your donation. Thank you in advance for supporting your local Y. Tom Libassi Executive Director