“The Y works to ensure all individuals have the support they need to achieve their full potential,” said Rob Johnson, CEO/Executive Director, Kettle Moraine YMCA.
“We work here in Washington and Ozaukee counties to provide services addressing its most critical social issues such as the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program, launched in 2010, that has supported 140 local cancer survivors who find themselves in the transitional period between completing their cancer treatment and the shift to feeling physically and emotionally strong enough to attempt to return to their normal life or their ‘new normal.'”
Johnson also pointed to the Y’s Diabetes Prevention Program. “Launched in 2012, it has assisted over 250 local adults reduce their risk of developing diabetes,” he said. “The Y would not be able to offer these types of programs without community support.”
The ‘For a better us’ campaign is meant to change the perception of the Y and raise awareness of the work it does in the areas of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility to address pressing social issues.
The campaign launches with two powerful television commercials, Places and Idle Hands, each depicting a different problem America faces today. Places highlights people who lack the opportunities and resources they need to thrive while Idle Hands explores the ways kids may fill their time when left unsupervised or unchallenged, without constructive activities.
Across Southeast Wisconsin, 13 corporate Ys, with 29 facility branches serve over 300,000 men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background. As a nonprofit, the Y raises money in their local communities to ensure that no one is turned away based on their ability to pay.
In the past year, Ys in Southeast Wisconsin have raised over $2.3 million helping kids and families in need reach their full potential. Each local Y would tell you that the need for financial support is much greater, but the community’s perception of the Y is not always one of a charitable organization.
Both spots close by highlighting the Y’s work on the ground, helping to serve communities by providing healthy living and prevention programs, college and career readiness programs, safe spaces and mentorship and volunteerism opportunities.
The commercials will air on multiple national networks including MSNBC, CBS and TBS. You can also view the spots on ymca.net/forabetterus
“This bold campaign underscores the importance of the life-changing work performed by Y staff and volunteers around the country,” said Kevin Washington, President and CEO of YMCA of the USA. “On a daily basis they drive the positive change and outcomes that strengthen our communities and the people who call them home.”
The For a better us. campaign is a multi-year, multi-faceted effort to engage more people with the Y and its mission. It will run through 2018.
Those interested in donating to the Kettle Moraine YMCA can visit www.kmymca.org/support or call 262-334-3405.
Campaign Aims to Focus on Work in Southeast Wisconsin and Beyond