In the 1940s, after spending almost 30 years with the YMCA of VPI, Paul Derring noted “if the YMCA has any genius at all, it is its ability to adjust its programs to the needs of the hour.” That statement speaks volumes about the YMCA at VT and its place in the New River Valley community. We are enriched by our long-standing programs such as Y Alternative Breaks which Al Payne led in the 1960s, yet we do not hesitate to launch new programs, as needs arise, like Project HOPE which tutors homeless children in transitional housing. We continue Paul Derring’s leadership development programs, including the awarding of Gold Triangles since 1928 for outstanding student leaders, while we begin plans to install a new educationally focused community garden on 15-acres of land in Blacksburg.
Over the years, people throughout the area have gotten to know the Y for so many different reasons: a Y Open University pottery class that developed a participant’s creative side; a spring Y Hike for a newcomer that introduced them to the beauty of the area; a Y Thrift Shop donation that helped a family in need; a student who was encouraged to do better in school through their Y tutor. And, regardless of how you know the Y, I hope it has brought enrichment to your life or to the community.
For those of you who know me personally, you know I love talking about the Y and its programs. I enjoy the way the Y is woven into the very fabric of the community and how it serves and works with so many different people and other community organizations. Our strength is in our partnerships and in our focus on a long-term view that includes helping develop our future community leaders and volunteers and instilling in them a broad view of service and volunteerism.
You’ll read about some of our exciting new developments in this newsletter and I hope them bring a smile to your face. I also hope you will join us this year as we push forward to complete the Corning Foundation Inc. Pottery Studio and Crafts Workshop so we can once again offer quality, low-cost arts classes to those in the NRV.
As always, it is a pleasure being part of the Y and being part of this wonderful community.
Gail Billingsley, Executive Director
Giving a Gift to The Y
Whether you are donating to the Y's Annual Campaign, our exciting Building Campaign (1000 North Main), or to the Y Gardens, rest assured that your gift will be put to the highest use.
Donate in honor or in memory of someone special as a lasting tribute. Call 540-961-9622 or donate on-line by clicking the "Give Time-Give Money" button to the left or the "Donate" button below.
VOLUNTEER with the Y!
Volunteer with the Y in 2009. We have volunteer opportunities during the day, evening, for singles, and groups. Contact the Y office at 961-9622 for more details, click on the Volunteer button to the left, or e-mail Ingrid at ymca@vtymca.org
DONATE to the Y!
Your contributions make our work possible!!
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1000 N. Main St., Blacksburg
Y RECYCLE
Learn more about the new recycling facilities at the Y Center...
We are a GREEN BUSINESS!
Donate!
Whether you are donating to the Y's Annual Campaign, our exciting Building Campaign (1000 North Main), or to the Y Gardens, do take a moment to support the work we do in the community.
Donate in honor or in memory of someone special as a lasting tribute. Call 540-961-9622 or donate on-line by clicking the "Give Time-Give Money" button to the left.
Recycle!
Recycle your:
electronics (TV, computer)
alkaline batteries
gently used furniture
clothing & housewares
household goods
books and magazines
The YMCA Thrift Shops accept donations of all of the above items. These items are resold or disposed of in a responsible manner to keep our community growing and thriving.
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