FAQs

I gave to the YMCA last year, why are you asking me to contribute again this year?
Every year the YMCA of Greater Charlotte solicits funds for the annual campaign. These funds make it possible to keep our promise to make YMCA programs and services available to all, regardless of their ability to pay. All YMCA board members and staff are asked to support the annual campaign.

Do my monthly membership dues go toward the Community Support Campaign?
NO. Membership dues cover the costs of operating our facility. Your monthly fee is NOT associated with Community Support. This annual campaign makes it possible to keep our promise to make YMCA programs and services available to all regardless of their ability to pay.

Does the YMCA receive funds from United Way?
Some branches of the YMCA of Greater Charlotte receive funding from the United Way. These funds combined with dollars raised through the YMCA's annual campaign provide services and programs.

Is my contribution tax deductible and do I have to pay it all at once?
YES, all contributions to the YMCA are tax deductible. NO, you do not have to pay it all at once. The YMCA is pleased to handle your contribution in any manner you wish. You may spread your contribution over several months or you may opt to receive an invoice anytime during the year for the total amount. Because this is an annual campaign, your contribution needs to be received on or before December 31.

Can I make my donation on-line?
Yes! Simply visit our website at www.ymcacharlotte.org and click on the “DONATE NOW” icon. You will receive acknowledgement from our Association Office regarding your gift.

Is the staff involved with the Community Support Campaign?
Indeed they are! In 2011, we had over 450 Harris & Harris Express full time and part time staff members committed over $46,000 to our Annual Community Support Campaign. Not only do we have their financial support, we have tremendous volunteer support from our staff year-round during campaign events.

What is Y-Community? I hear about you supporting the McCrorey Family YMCA, tell me more.
The purpose of the Y-Community is to insure that under-served YMCAs in the YMCA of Greater Charlotte have the necessary resources to deliver high quality programs to their respective communities and we work to build relationships between the communities. The Harris YMCA helps our sister branch, The McCrorey Family YMCA provide funding for senior programs, youth sports, afterschool, teen programs, day camp and aquatic programs. The McCrorey Family YMCA was established in 1936 and is the 2nd oldest YMCA in Charlotte.

Can you provide some examples of how the Community Support Campaign supports our youth?
1. Y Readers literacy program improves literacy skills and self–confidence in children Pre-K thru second grade who are performing below grade level. In 2011, the Harris & Harris Express YMCAs committed $42,500 to our Billingsville Elementary Y Readers Literacy Program. These dollars allowed 32 students to attend the Y Readers summer program at Billingsville. 100% of these participants raised or maintained their reading level with an average increase in reading proficiency being 5 months. Learn more
2. Community Swim Academy is a collaboration with the Harris YMCA and Sterling Elementary school in which the entire 2nd grade comes to our Y during the school year to receive free swim lessons. This life-saving opportunity is funded by Community Support dollars.

What does the Harris YMCA do to support critical needs in our community?
In partnership with Urban Ministries, the Harris YMCA staff and volunteers provide shelter, food and activities ranging from conversations, fellowship and chapel service for our homeless neighbors during the winter months. Since the inception of Room in the Inn (Fall 2010) through the winter season 2012, this program will serve 192 of our homeless neighbors. Learn more

I have heard about your H.O.P.E. program. Tell me more about this.
The Harris YMCA H.O.P.E. Program (Helping Overweight People Embrace) provides emotional support for participants as they discover and implement strategies that can break unhealthy overeating behaviors. The goal is to develop these strategies into habits that help maintain a lasting lifestyle change. The founder of H.O.P.E., Julie Hall, has experienced a life changing journey and discovered the importance of addressing the emotional and spiritual issues which lead to obesity along with incorporating fitness and healthy eating into her life. She has dedicated her life to helping others who struggle with emotional overeating. Learn more

Have more questions about our annual campaign? Please contact:
Shannon Emmanuel | 704 716 6873 | shannon.emmanuel@ymcacharlotte.org

YMCA Mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.