Donations help families stay active through YMCA memberships, enable kids to grow through camp experiences, provide leadership opportunities for youth, assist people as they transition to full employment, and provide safe and high quality child care. Last year, the YMCA provided direct financial assistance valued at $5.9 million to 34,248 people. Of the $5.9 million, $2.37 million was raised through YMCA Strong Kids (YMCA Spirit of Giving). This year’s $2.7 million will continue that good work.

YMCA Strong Kids activities took place across the Greater Toronto Area and included the 2007 YMCA Corporate Team Challenge. This popular event was a huge success again this year, with more than 2,500 walkers and runners taking part. Corporate sponsors such as 640AM Radio, Westwind Partners, Sleeman, Aber Diamond, Vector, Aquafina and Propel also contributed generously to the campaign.

In a time of significant growth and change within the Greater Toronto Area, the YMCA is called upon to provide the programs that Toronto families need, so that all kids grow up healthy, positive, confident and strong. The YMCA Strong Kids Campaign, as our signature fundraising effort, is how we fund that work. A debt of gratitude is owed to each of the 16,503 donors who gave of themselves this year. Your time and energy are invaluable!