It was an evening of inspiration, appreciation, and celebration as the Portage YMCA held its first ever fundraising campaign on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan on Saturday. In an effort to bring those close to the YMCA together and show appreciation for their donations, the event also emphasized the goals and commitment of the YMCA to the community through the inspiring words of speakers, locally catered food, and a silent auction. The funds that were raised will go to the scholarships that the YMCA offers in order to help families and children in need. Sponsors of the event were St. Mary’s Medical Center, Clancy’s Public House, and Mr. Arthur Johnson.
Janis Regnier, YMCA board president, organized the event because she believes that supporting the YMCA in this way will not only bring donors together to get to know each other, but also make the many programs such as preschool, daycare, sports, and membership available and affordable to the children of the community. Regnier feels strongly that the YMCA has a positive impact on the community. She said, “The YMCA is so much more than a gym. The most important thing we do is teach our children our core values.” She said of the fundraising gala, “It’s about our future as a community, and moving forward in a positive way.”
Chris Aungst, CEO at the YMCA, said, “The Y strengthens the heart of the community. It gives kids and the community the chance they need to succeed.” Of the links that the YMCA has made with the community and of the evening’s sponsors he commented, “I think collaborations with all entities together will really help the YMCA in its mission.”
Janice Ryba, CEO of St. Mary’s, said of the Portage YMCA, “We are really proud to be a part of Portage YMCA.”
Garilee Johnson, a member of the Portage YMCA, testified that the YMCA was immensely important because of the relationships with people that her and her children are able to form. Then James Snyder, Mayor of Portage, also spoke of the bounty of positive effects that he sees the YMCA create in the community, and is extremely thankful to the board.
Following the speaker, hors d’oeuvres were served, all provided by Clancy’s Public House restaurant and a silent auction. Members at the event were very grateful to see it come together successfully and look forward to continuing the gala in the coming years.
Click here to see more photos from the gala!