Community Need

The effects of COVID-19 have disproportionately affected young people. Both immediate and longer-term factors through which young people are affected include social isolation, loss of structured activities (school, clubs, social activities), increased screen time and potential exposure to stress within the home.

Considering Snohomish County’s 8 largest school districts, 86,550 students in grades K-12 will continue remote or hybrid learning throughout the 2020-2021 school year. As challenging as remote learning from home may be, the challenges are compounded for children from low income homes and even more so for those who are homeless. Of our 86,550 student population, 32,700 students live in poverty and of those 2,165 of our students are homeless.

This is a generation of young people who deserve extraordinary consideration, support and guidance.

YMCA Response

We have been through challenging times before, each time our community has looked to the Y to provide support and leadership through programs that guide our youth and build a stronger, more connected community. For 120 years the YMCA of Snohomish County has been a constant and trusted community resource dedicated to the development of youth through programs that engage their minds, strengthen their bodies and instill life-long leadership skills.

Once again, the YMCA, with the support of volunteers and the generosity of donors, will step up to meet the needs of our youth and in doing so support our families and help to revitalize our region’s economy. The Y is where youth and families are able to reclaim their health and well-being and where together we will reclaim our community.

YMCA 2021 Annual Campaign Commitment

The YMCA is asking our community to partner with us by investing in the lives of our young people through Y program and services uniquely designed to support their healthy development in spirit, mid and body. The Y is asking for gifts of all sizes to secure the $1.35M required to realize our vision for impact.

• 12 Youth Development Program Directors

• Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program integrated into all six branches

• Reinvestment in critical middle and high school leadership programs like My Achievers Program, Leaders Club, Youth and Government, Swim Team, Lifeguard Training, and Summer Camp Counselors in Training

• Expanded access to YMCA membership for middle and high school youth

• Commitment to year-round youth sports programs and progressive swim lessons for children of all ages