PICKENS COUNTY – The YMCA of Easley, Pickens & Powdersville launched its annual campaign March 1 to ensure that everyone in Easley, Pickens and Powdersville has access to vital community programs and resources that support youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Every day, the YMCA works to support the people and community members that need it most by addressing community issues like summer learning loss in underprivileged youth, the obesity epidemic across generations, and the need for belonging.

“Throughout Pickens and Anderson County, countless people know the “the Y,” but there’s so much more to our Y than one might think,” said Heather Cirincione Patel, Development Director for the YMCA. “The Y is more than a gym. It’s a cause.”

This year, the YMCA hopes to raise $150,000. Funds raised will provide life changing opportunities right here in our community. One of the ways the Y does this is through the Y Mentor Program. Y Mentor connects positive adults with at-risk youth.

Currently the program serves 28 elementary, middle and high schools in Pickens and Anderson County with plans to expand to an additional 10 schools by the end of 2017-2018 school year.

“I have been amazed to witness the increase in self-confidence in so many of our students who participate in the YMCA Mentor Program. It’s so powerful to know that someone values you so much that they will freely give their time to invest in your life.” said Michelle Stinehart, McKissick Elementary Counselor.

To learn more about how you can support the Y’s cause, contact Heather Cirincione Patel at heather@pcymca.net or visit www.pcymca.net for more information.

The YMCA Senior Leadership Team kicked off the annual campaign during a Key Staff Meeting.
https://www.theeasleyprogress.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/web1_ymcacampaign.jpgThe YMCA Senior Leadership Team kicked off the annual campaign during a Key Staff Meeting. Courtesy photo

Staff Report