How to Get Involved
Despite its name, the YMCA is not just for the young, not just for men and not just for Christians. It is an association of members who come together with a common understanding of the YMCA mission and a common commitment to the YMCA's vision of building strong kids, strong families and strong communities.
All YMCA’s have one thing in common - a dedicated group of people: volunteers, staff, members and donors-all of whom are committed to our mission. It is the people of the YMCA who build strong kids, strong families and strong communities-and you can help.
As a YMCA member, you're setting yourself on a lifelong journey of healthy spirit, mind and body. You're becoming part of an association that does everything from child care to health and fitness to youth development to the arts and humanities, and much, much, more. As a YMCA member, you have many benefits but you have some responsibilities, too. You will be asked to get involved and be a champion for the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. You may be asked to volunteer or contribute to the Y's support campaigns that underwrite membership assistance for those who cannot afford the full fees. The YMCA involves members in offering their time, talent and treasure, for the greater good.
Why not call the Wanganui YMCA today and get involved!
Volunteers
YMCA’s are first and foremost volunteer organizations. Volunteers are at the heart of every YMCA and that is why YMCA’s are at the heart of community life. Volunteers continually ensure that the Wanganui YMCA meets the unique needs of the Wanganui community.
The basic definition of a YMCA volunteer is "anyone who willingly gives time to help the YMCA accomplish its mission without getting paid by the YMCA"
Get involved, we regularly add new programs to meet Wanganuians' needs in our continued effort of building strong kids, strong families and strong communities.
At the YMCA, your time and talent go a long way. Every hour you spend as a YMCA volunteer translates into:
- a child or teen that grow up healthy and resilient,
- support for families so they can be successful and strong,
- healthier lives for people of all ages, backgrounds, abilities and incomes, and
- a safer, more viable community that's a good place to live and work.
There is always an opportunity to do some volunteer work whether it is assisting with instruction, supporting a group, preparing meals or even helping with maintenance, your support is always appreciated. No matter how you help, you'll make a big difference in working with others to create a feeling of connectedness in our community.
To solve the problems closest to home-or better yet-prevent them-the YMCA needs more people like you.
Do something good, volunteer at the Wanganui YMCA!
Make a donation
YMCAs embrace people of all ages, incomes, abilities, religions and ethnic backgrounds; they're for everyone. The Wanganui YMCA work to build connections between people and organizations and create meaning to their lives. Children and families who cannot afford to pay full costs deserve the experiences the YMCA offers as much as those who can. Your support, which goes beyond membership fees, helps us provide programs to those who otherwise couldn't afford to participate.
Wanganui needs happy children, strong youth, successful families, a neighborhood that is safe and healthy, and a city that provides a better place to live and work. Won't you please help by donating to your local YMCA, supporting the needs of all in our Community.
The Wanganui YMCA has charitable status and donations are recognised by Inland Revenue.
Although we generate much of our income from fees and contracts we need donations to respond to the ever changing needs of the Wanganui community. Some of our programmes, particularly in the youth area, can never recover the full costs without creating a major financial barrier to participation. We also subsidize many individual participants or families where they cannot afford the full fee but would benefit from the activity. They pay what they can and the balance comes from our donations funds.
YMCA standard - cost will not be a barrier to programme participation. Periodically we may have a major capital fundraising project for new facilities.
If you wish to assist the YMCA with financial support there are several ways you can do it.
- You can send a donation to us at P O Box 622, Wanganui.
- You can email us on ymca@ymcawanganui.org.nz or phone the YMCA on (06) 349 0197 and discuss your possible support with us. Ask for the Executive Director or any of the Managers to assist you.
- Bequests are also a way of supporting the YMCA.
For those who decide to help, thank you on behalf of the Wanganui community who benefits from your assistance.