The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka held its eighth annual Move to Give fundraising event earlier this month.
The YMCA has announced the event raised over $50,000 to support the communities the Y serves across Simcoe, Muskoka, and the District of Parry Sound.
Nearly 1,500 participants from Simcoe, Muskoka, and Parry Sound joined together either virtually or in person to participate in Move to Give, raising money while having fun and getting active. This was the first in-person Move to Give event for the local charity in two years.
“It was incredible to reconnect with our communities once again for this exciting fundraising event,” Laura Kelly, senior director of philanthropy at the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, said in a news release. “Participants of all ages took up the challenge and came together to celebrate and support the YMCA. We are deeply moved by the support and generosity of the community, from our donors, participants, and sponsors. Thanks to all who made this year’s Move to Give such a success.”
Over the past eight years, Move to Give has raised more than $700,000 and brought together thousands of people across Simcoe, Muskoka, and Parry Sound, all working toward achieving the same goal — building healthier communities. Move to Give not only raises money to provide participants in need with financial assistance each year; it also raises awareness about the YMCA’s programs, services, and impact on the community, while inspiring healthy, active living.
“The success of Move to Give has a tremendous impact on the communities we serve,” YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka CEO Jill Tettmann said in a release. “As a charity, fundraising events like Move to Give allow us to accomplish our mission and provide community members with barrier-free access to our vital programs and services.
“The Y is one of the largest providers of human services that directly addresses pressing community issues like chronic disease, social isolation, immigration stress, gambling addiction, and unemployment," she added. "The funds raised through Move to Give directly translate into more resources and supports for our communities to address these issues.”
Tettmann also acknowledged the hard work and dedication that YMCA staff and volunteers put into planning, organizing, and running the week-long Move to Give fundraising event.
“This event is a huge undertaking, and our incredible staff and volunteer teams are a vital part of making Move to Give a success. Thank you for sharing your passion for the Y with the nearly 1,500 community members that participated,” Tettmann said.
To learn more about how to support the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka, visit www.GiveToTheY.ca.