YMCA Kicks Off Annual Campaign

Oskaloosa YMCA

Dawn Collins, Mahaska County YMCA Executive Director, has announced the Mahaska County YMCA will kick off its annual giving campaign with a “No Show Black Tie Dinner Fundraiser.” Invitations will be arriving in mailboxes throughout the Mahaska Community within the next few days, but the only date required to be entered into calendars will be a ‘give by’ date, because attendance to a fundraising event will not be necessary.

“As the invitation reads, this is ‘a make-believe event for a very real cause,’” said Collins. “The Mahaska County Board of Directors values people’s time and money, and this unique ‘non-event’ will provide an opportunity for residents to give at comfortable levels without having to attend an event during this very busy time of year.”

A tax deductible contribution to the Mahaska County Y helps finance scholarships, supplies, and resources. “It is really an investment in the Mahaska Community,” said Collins, “because donations fund sustainable, long-term programs for families within the county.”

The Y’s goal this year is to raise $90,000 for scholarships, facility improvements, capital projects and equipment such as the $3,000 needed to purchase a pool lift. In addition to the “No Show black Tie Dinner,” the Y Membership Committee will be holding a Phone-a-Thon directly asking for contributions from individuals and area businesses. The Y Gymnastics Parent Group will soon be holding a Cartwheel-a-Thon to raise $5,000 for gymnastics equipment.

“The Board and Membership Committee recognize this is an unsettling economic time,” added Collins, “but this is a chance to make a direct impact on people’s lives. Funds raised are critical as we continue to ensure our facilities and programs are available to everyone in our community regardless of their ability to pay.”

For more information or to make a contribution, contact Collins at 641.673.8411. Community members are also invited to stop by the Mahaska County YMCA, at 414 N Third Street.