The YMCA of the Northwoods is currently in the midst of its fundraising effort for the 2012 “Strong Kids Campaign” under the leadership of chair Kim Swisher.

For years, the YMCA of the Northwoods has helped shape the lives of people of all ages in spirit, mind and body. Funds raised through the campaign will be used to provide financial assistance to those unable to afford the Y’s programs and services and to ensure that no one has to be turned away due to an inability to pay.

“A lot of people in the community don’t realize that the ‘Strong Kids’ program is there for everyone,” said Swisher. “Not only are those funds used for programs that encourage community and youth involvement, they are used to provide scholarships for those in need of financial assistance. The goal is to give everyone who wants to belong to the YMCA a chance to do it.”

The Y states that when a person makes a gift to the campaign, he will help make financial assistance available to children, families, adults and seniors in the local community who are facing difficult times financially. Thanks to donors, those in need can participate in YMCA programs such as Summer Day Camp, Swim With Santa, and the “Not So Scary” Halloween Trail, in addition to several senior-citizen oriented programs that receive partial funding through the program.

“These are all terrific community events that we want to make affordable for everyone,” said Swisher. “Personally I think the community sees a huge benefit from programs like this. My main goal is to just let people know that this is out there, and that the YMAC is affordable for everyone.”

When you donate to the YMCA, you will have a meaningful, enduring impact right in your own neighborhood, as all funds raised stay with the YMCA of the Northwoods to support the residents of Rhinelander and the surrounding communities.

Since kicking off the campaign in March, and not counting funds raised through last weekend’s Hodag Run For Your Life, it has raised about $71,000 of the $95,000 goal. While the Hodag Run got the committee closer to their goal, Swisher said there is still work to do.

“We kicked things off in March, and have been working hard since then,” she said. “So much of this has been informing the community about everything that’s offered at the YMCA and how they can get involved. The program’s focus is on kids and youth, but it is really there for the whole community.”

Donations are gratefully accepted online or through check or money order, made payable to YMCA of the Northwoods Strong Kids Campaign, 2003 Winnebago Street East, Rhinelander, WI 54501.

To learn more about the YMCA of the Northwoods, call (715) 362-9622, or visit ymcaofthenorthwoods.org.

Editor’s note: The 12th Annual YMCA of the Northwoods Scramble and Golf Ball Drop will take place on Friday, July 20, at Pinewood Country Club in Harshaw. All proceeds will benefit the Strong Kids Campaign. The YMCA accepts donations, hole sponsors and major sponsors to help offset the cost of the event. For more information, visit ymcaofthenorthwoods.org/golf_scramble.html.