Ymca Foundation of Southern Arizona

The YMCA Foundation of Southern Arizona, founded in 1973, is a 509(a)(3) supporting organization established exclusively to benefit the YMCA of Southern Arizona. As such, it serves the YMCA of Southern Arizona investing charitable gifts, building legacy giving and demonstrating strong financial stewardship.

As a supporting organization, the YMCA Foundation exists to support the YMCA of Southern Arizona. The purpose of the Foundation is to preserve the endowment assets and increase the value of the endowment asset base through new gifts and investment growth. Foundation earnings  finance the creative edge of YMCA programs today, while the principal goes forward into tomorrow. 

The YMCA Foundation makes an annual distribution to support YMCA branch programs and services. The YMCA ensures the funds are spent according to the donor’s wishes and used to fund the most pressing YMCA needs. The Foundation Board of Directors reviews its spending policy each year. In 2012, the Foundation distributed 4% of a twelve quarter rolling average of its investment’s market value.

OUR MISSION

The YMCA of Southern Arizona is dedicated to improving the quality of human life and to helping all people realize their fullest potential through the development of Spirit, Mind and Body.

The YMCA of Southern Arizona, as a cause-driven organization, strives to:

• empower youth through physical activity and educational programs
• provide individuals and families with tools and programs to build a strong spirit, mind and body
• look within our community to serve

 

By focusing on the specific areas of Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility, our goal is to make Tucson a healthier community while building strong partnerships with local and city organizations to provide the programs and services that empower, nurture and excite!

At the Y, we are dedicated to creating a positive impact on Tucson’s children and families. The Y is a force for good in Pima County. We build strength in our community through innovative collaborations.

Improving Tucson’s health and well-being is a top priority. We are leading the effort to prevent chronic disease and childhood obesity. The CDC states that Pima County has over 58,800 adults with diabetes. Our Diabetes Prevention Program helps adults at risk of becoming diabetic adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles. The Y keeps kids healthy too. Our Child Care programs follow Healthy Eating and Physical Activity (HEPA) standards, ensuring children have nutritious foods and enough play time to keep their bodies fit.

Drowning is the second leading cause of death among children. Last year, our All Kids Swim program and swimming lessons taught over 5,000 children to swim. Children gain confidence, master new skills and learn life saving lessons that last a lifetime.

Local refugee children also participate in Y programs, utilize Y facilities, and attend Y Camps. According to the International Rescue Committee, over 11,000 refugees now call Tucson their home. The Y partners with Doolen Middle School to provide assistance and programs to refugee students and their families. These programs create support systems and provide assets to refugees.

At the Y, people of all ages learn new skills, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and give back to those in need. Your participation allows the Y to provide experiences for children and families who struggle to afford the character building opportunities that allow them to learn, grow and thrive.

ALWAYS HERE FOR OUR COMMUNITY

• More than 60,500 Tucsonans are YMCA members

• Nearly 42% or 25,285 members are youth

• One in 5 Pima County residents is touched by a YMCA program

• 100% of your gift provides scholarships and program support for kids and families in need

• Over 1,600 YMCA volunteers provided 31,600 volunteer hours, valued at $689,000

• The Y is continuously ranked #1 on the “Nonprofit Times Top 100” list

 

Thanks to our generous donors:

• 14.7% of revenue - $1.8 million - came from contributions and public support

• $653,000 provided over 8,400 people with direct financial assistance

 

OUR CAUSE

At the Y, we focus on three key areas, nurturing the potential of kids, helping people live healthier lives, and supporting our neighbors. Each of these areas is fundamental to strengthening the community. And that’s why we’re here, just as we have been for nearly 100 years.