The Bradford YMCA will be hosting its 2019 Annual Giving Campaign Kickoff event at 6 p.m. on Feb. 19 in the facility’s Activity Center.

Y staff and volunteer campaigners will come together and share inspirational stories, networking and surprises as they prepare to raise $142,000 which will be used to provide support to a couple thousand area children, adults and families in need of financial support to access valuable YMCA programming. The Y relies on the generosity of local community members, businesses, as well as federal and state funding to carry out its mission of putting Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

The Y measures success not simply by the amount of dollars it raises, but rather by the number of lives it impacts. As a result of the 2018 campaign, the Bradford YMCA’s impact was felt by over 1,000 individuals. These individuals received financial assistance for YMCA services through membership, youth and sports programs, and/or child care.

“Throughout the Twin Tiers, countless people know the YMCA,” said Barb Sweitzer, CEO, YMCA of the Twin Tiers. She continued, “However, there’s so much more to our Y than one may think. We are so much more than just a gym. We’re a cause, and we’re dedicated to nurturing the potential of children, improving the health and well-being of our members, and giving back and providing support to our neighbors.”