My journey with the YMCA began 7 years ago as a volunteer mentor in the YMCA Safe Place Services Y-NOW Mentoring Program. Working with youth who have experienced the trauma of "losing" a parent to incarceration changed my perspective on my community. The children are not to be blamed for their parents mistakes. Unfortunately, these youth are up to 7x more likely to find their way into the judicial system. The YMCA supports these youth to break that cycle. 

As a new employee of the Downtown Family YMCA I was surprised to learn the impact this branch plays in supporting the recovery of clients from The Healing Place. Our branch also supports the families of children staying at the Ronald McDonald House. Image how you would feel if your child was deathly ill, in need of a life-saving medical procedure. The Downtown Y offers those families a opportunity to use the gym and release some stress. 

I've created this page because all of those programs need vital funding. I'm inspired by the work of the YMCA of Greater Louisville and invite you to help build our community by supporting the YMCA Annual Campaign. 

Thank you!

Dave