YOUR GIFTS IN ACTION

Carolyn and Chuck Ruffing have been YMCA members for more than 30 years and are also Triangle Society donors. Carolyn fondly remembers starting her Y membership when she was four years old in her hometown of Philadelphia. Chuck recalls beginning their joint Y journey in Rochester to exercise. As their family grew, the social aspects of the Y became more important to them. They recognized that other Y members, the greeters, staff and instructors all became part of their community.

"As we looked at our donation strategy, we began to think that not everyone can take advantage of the community like we can. We were really excited to be able to make a difference and donate so that others could be part of this great community, too."

Carolyn and Chuck have been promoted to grandparent roles. Their daughter and her wife are also YMCA members. Their son and daughter-in-law along with their two boys are members, too!

Carolyn and Chuck now enjoy taking their grandchildren swimming. It's a bonding experience for them and some downtime for their parents.

Thank you for your support, Carolyn and Chuck! Watch how Carolyn and Chuck have impacted their community.
 

Meet the members of the Lewis Street YMCA Neighborhood Center’s Quarterback Club. This group of renown athletes come together to share space, enjoy conversation and build community, “We talk about everything… you know, everybody respects everybody.” explains Glenn Hagen, 1978 NBA Draft Pick who played for the Detroit Pistons. 

These community members are connected through the game of basketball and have become close, “It’s a blessing to still be here with all the friends that love us... It’s a blessing.” Fred “Shine” Crockton acknowledged.

Watch as the members of the Quarterback Club build community at the Lewis Street YMCA Neighborhood Center! 

Ron Snios’ Y story began with the LIVESTRONG and STAYSTRONG programs. “I feel better now than before I was diagnosed with cancer.” Ron mentions about the classes and programs he has participated in since coming to the Y. 

Before this, Ron hadn’t stepped into a gym since high school. Now, he’s taking classes, working out and volunteering in a class for people with Parkinson’s, “I felt a connection because people with cancer and Parkinson’s people, we all have similar issues we’re dealing with.” Ron explains, “…I guess my philanthropy is, I want to pay it forward and I want to change the world one person at a time.”

See how Ron is making a difference in his community!

Larry and Linda Muir joined the Westside Family YMCA about 12 years ago. When they attended spin and yoga classes or simply went to work out, they noticed a diverse group of individuals who exercised and socialized at the Y. Larry and Linda saw families hustling in to get to classes or swim, people rehabbing from injuries and others gathering for coffee and conversation. They both recognized that the Y was an important part of these members' lives.

"When we retired, we were fortunate to have health plans that covered our Y membership fees. We wondered what we might do to assist other members of the community so they could also enjoy the benefits of a Y membership. We began supporting this effort with a monthly donation that we continue to this day."

Thanks, Larry and Linda, for your generosity!

It started back in 1985 as their children were growing up. Bill was working most of the time so his wife, Tricia, was able to stay home to raise them.

He heard about the former Indian Guide Program that enabled him to do things and go on adventures with his son. That program brought so much joy to their whole family. Bill was asked to join the board of the then Arnett YMCA branch as their Board Chair; soon after, he joined the Y’s Corporate Board.

"This involvement has shown me and my wife all that the YMCA provides to so many families and individuals. We believe that our donations help families grow happier together as it did for our own. Hopefully, we will be able to continue to volunteer and give back to our YMCA!"

Thanks, Bill and Tricia, for your support!

Sandy Zapkin has been a part of the YMCA for over 35 years. She started out with a family membership, then became a staff member and, after retirement, joined the Northwest Family YMCA’s Board of Directors. In that time, Sandy became close to many staff and members, so close in fact that they have become her family.

“In the beginning I never realized how many people the YMCA helps with experience scholarships.” Sandy explains her experience donating as a staff member. Now, as a Board member, Sandy knows that her gift makes a difference in many ways, “It helps families benefit from being able to have a family membership. It helps children be able to benefit from sports lessons, swim lessons and especially in being able to attend before and after school care and summer camp.” Sandy adds, “I also try to send children to summer camp because it helps enrich their lives in so many ways.”

Over 25 years ago, Sandy was diagnosed with breast cancer, “I’m not sure how I would have gotten through without the YMCA’s support.” Sandy explains. Then, 14 years ago, Sandy’s husband passed away suddenly. “Once again, the YMCA was there to support me and my children. The richness of friendships and connections made through the YMCA is amazing. I valued this then and even more so now.” Sandy shares.

Sandy knows that when she gives, she’s getting back so much more, “When I see children happy and parents relaxing because there is someone out there that cares… that is an amazing feeling.”

Thank you, Sandy for your commitment to the Y!