Page 8 - YMCA of the Suncoast 2023 Annual Report

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
SHAPING
AN IMPACT
As a leading 4-star charity, the YMCA
of the Suncoast is committed to strengthening the communities we serve.
We believe personal and lasting change is best accomplished when people come together and work to invest in our children, our families, our health and our community.
With our commitment to advancing philanthropy, community engagement and our focus on enabling everyone to grow and thrive, we are able to change lives. It is because of the generosity of our donors, members and partners we continue to serve our communities with programs such
as swim lessons and Togetherhood projects – helping to advance volunteerism.
Serving coastal areas of Florida, communities full of private and public pools and being surrounded by lakes and rivers makes our strategic priority
of Water Safety a crucial component of the Y’s youth development efforts. Florida consistently ranks in the top three states for youth drownings, and we believe it is our obligation to help reduce this tragic statistic. We work to provide life- saving programs at all our branches including Safety Around Water Week - an introductory swim program – provided at no extra cost to kids ages 5-12 years old. Each day, instructors instill a love of the water while helping kids and parents build safety skills and knowledge.
OUR FOUNDATION - VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers are an integral part of the YMCA of the Suncoast. Their hard work and dedication allow
us to make a broad and lasting impact on our communities. The more people who volunteer the more underserved children, families and adults get the help they need to lead productive and fulfilling lives. Here at the YMCA of the Suncoast, more than 540 volunteers give back each year through activities such as mentoring teens, coaching youth sports, serving on our boards and fundraising. Volunteering not only helps the Y and our communities but also enhances the personal well-being and relationships of those who serve.
2023 IMPACT SNAPSHOT
$9.4 million
In total community investment through financial assistance to ensure participation in all programs among youth, adults and families facing financial hardship, in addition to, subsidizing programs that fill community voids.
5,386
Individuals were served at little or no cost thanks to the charitable contributions of Y members and donors.
7,142
Children and adults learned to swim and be safe around water.
7 YMCA OF THE SUNCOAST | ANNUAL REPORT 2023 | BUILDING FOR BETTER