Change Lives

We want to show you what the Y Scholarship Campaign does for our community, and the best way to do that is to share a mother’s story.

I wanted to let you know that you have made a difference in the life of a little girl. My three year old daughter and I were recently relocated by the Court. She had to get used to a new city, a new home, a new school and even a new prayer house. She was away from everything that she had been familiar with. I needed to do something special for her. She LOVES to swim, but I could not afford swim classes. I came across the YMCA’s Aquatics Program. I still could not afford the fee. I then learned that the YMCA offers scholarships. I applied for it and you were gracious enough to work with me and with my unusual circumstance. Today, I helped my daughter with her homework assignment. The topic was “My Favorite Place in the Community.”

She was excited to remind me that her favorite place is her “swimming place.” When I asked her why, she quickly responded with an obvious, “Because I love it!”

As we talked about it more, I realized that she is making memories here. She will probably always remember her “swimming place.” On the days that she has swim class, she is quick to eat her breakfast, gets dressed, goes to school and looks forward to going to the Y in the evenings. I have begun to see a difference in my daughter. She used to be quiet and reserved. I now see her being more confident, outgoing, and even more trusting. The aquatics program at the Dr. P. Phillips YMCA is making a difference in her life; it gives her time to be herself and learn while she has fun. She is not only getting stronger physically but emotionally as well. I wanted to THANK YOU ALL again for making a difference in our lives and THANK the community members who have made this scholarship possible for us.

Through the Y of Central Florida, over 1,300 volunteer campaigners and over 3,000 donors are empowering thousands of people in our community to be healthy, confident, connected and secure. To date, the Y Scholarship Campaign has raised over $1 million to use for families in need.  These voluntary contributions fund, lead and support the Y’s critical work.  Our goal is to have 2,500 volunteer campaigners, and  10,000 donors raise $3 million dollars to give to our community.  Imagine the impact we could make with those goals.

Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. We believe that lasting personal and social change can only come about when we all work together.

Give to the Y today. Someone’s life will be changed.