NORWICH – For years, the Norwich Family YMCA has been deemed the place to be for many. Unfortunately, some people are unable to afford the actual costs to enjoy the YMCA year-in and year-out, and many choose to allocate their hard-working dollars to essential needs and thus are forced to go without experiencing the benefits of the YMCA: a safe, state-of-the-art facility offering youth sports programming, childcare, swimming lessons, and a place for the community to come together.
For many years, the YMCA absorbed the need of program and membership scholarships through allocations within their budget, but unfortunately they were eventually unable to continue doing so with the ever-changing business climate that has affected many local businesses and not-for-profits in the area.
As a result, 11 years ago the YMCA created their Open Doors Scholarship Program: a community campaign that raises funds for families and area youth who do not have the ability to afford childcare, swimming lessons, summer camp, or simply the chance to access the state-of-the-art facility on a regular basis.
“At this time of year, many people are making their charitable contributions and we ask that you keep the Open Doors Scholarship Campaign in mind,” said Co-chair of the 2016-2017 Open Doors Scholarship Campaign David Emerson. “Just drop off your check at the Y with 'Open Door Scholarship Campaign' on the memo line, or mail The Norwich Family YMCA at 68-70 North Broad St., Norwich, NY 13815.”
Since its inception, hundreds of community residents have stepped up to offer a helping hand to their community members in need and the YMCA as part of the Open Doors Scholarship Program.
YMCA Executive Director Jamey Mullen says that he considers the scholarship program to be the best program that the YMCA offers, because without the campaign many people are unable to reap the numerous benefits that being a YMCA member has to offer.
The Norwich YMCA reports that a $25 donation gives a child the opportunity to participate in youth sports, a $50 donation offers a child eight swimming lessons, a $100 donation provides a year membership for a child, and a $750 donation allows a child to experience summer camp. During the 2015-2016 Open Doors Scholarship campaign, 198 donors raised $81,635 that was awarded to over 700 participants.
An application process is required to receive scholarship assistance in the Open Doors Scholarship Program, and there are financial guidelines in place to support the initiative. Mullen explains that on many occasions, there are extenuating circumstances in place that are more critical than an individual’s finances, and so they meet with every applicant in order to assess their needs and come up with a plan to support them. While Mullen admits this is time consuming work, he says that the rewards are significant as he becomes more connected to the YMCA membership base.
“The YMCA traditionally allocates more scholarships than donations collected. We want to work with every family to provide a 'YMCA opportunity' for them,” states a release from the Norwich YMCA. “Will you please help us? Any contribution will give the gift of opportunity for local and deserving individuals. Make a donation today and take the first step in making a difference within our community and 'building a better us.'”