YMCA Buffalo Niagara launches annual campaign to support community needs

YMCA Buffalo Niagara will officially launch its 2015 annual campaign Jan. 21. The goal is to ensure everyone in Western New York has access to vital community programs and resources that support youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The kickoff event will take place from 6-8 p.m. at The Foundry (1738 Elmwood Ave.) for YMCA leadership and supporters.

Every day, YMCA Buffalo Niagara works to support the people and neighborhoods that need it most by addressing community issues such as school readiness, at-risk youth, chronic diseases and quality of life for seniors.

"Throughout Western New York, countless people know the Y. But there's so much more to our Y than one might think," said Anne Taylor, 2015 general campaign chair. "The Y is more than a gym. It's a cause. As a charity, we're dedicated to nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving the community's health and well-being, and giving back and providing support to our neighbors."

This year, YMCA Buffalo Niagara branches and the association board will work to raise a grand total of $707,000. Funds raised will help to empower people of all ages to lead healthier lives and strengthen the bonds of community here in Western New York through the Y's financial assistance program.

Last year, charitable gifts from YMCA donors made it possible for approximately 1 in 4 of the Y's school-age child care program participants to have a safe place to learn and build confidence after school; for more than 500 families to reconnect and grow together; and for countless individuals of all ages to become healthier in spirit, mind and body.

To learn more about how you can support the Y's cause, call 716-565-6000 or visit www.YMCABuffaloNiagara.org for more information.