Annual Campaign

GET INVOLVED

The Y is more than a gym. It’s a cause. As a 501(c)3 charity, we are dedicated to nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving the community’s health and well being, and giving back and providing support to our neighbors.

The Y uses financial gifts to help individuals and families participate in programs such as early childhood education, summer camp, youth activities including Ninjastics and swim lessons, as well as family and wellness events through our Income Based Membership program and Child Care Subsidies. Your gift will help young people achieve their potential, empower people of all ages to lead healthier lives, and strengthen the bonds of our community.

If you would like more information on our Y Annual Campaign, or to volunteer, please contact Diane Raver at 812-934-6006 or draver@siymca.org

Donate Today

Jack Sloan

Jack Sloan is enjoying having a free sixth-grade membership to the Southeastern Indiana YMCA.

The Jac-Cen-Del Junior/Senior High School student heard about this opportunity from his older sister, Carly, who works part-time on the Wellness team at the Y. “Carly said, ‘It’s a great way to have fun.’ I like to meet new friends, and there’s not a lot to do at my house. I’d rather be here than sitting at home.”

The 11-year-old’s favorite activity at the Y is playing basketball with his friends. However, he also says he likes “cracking jokes with Carly and making her laugh!”

When he gets a little older, he would like to work out on the machines in the Wellness Center. Meanwhile, he will continue to meet new people at the Y, in addition to spending time with friends playing basketball or football outside when it’s nice.

“This is a really great establishment,” Jack says of the Y. “Everybody’s super nice.”

Thanks to the Y’s Annual Campaign, area sixth-graders can sign up for a free membership and have a safe, fun place to hang out with friends.

Luke Hortsman

Luke Horstman always has a big smile on his face when he comes to the Southeastern Indiana YMCA to work out.

This may be because the Y is one of his favorite places. “I sure do like the people here,” says the 32-year-old.

Horstman runs, walks, or rides his bike to the Y so he can work out and prepare for his track and field Special Olympics events, which include javelin and running. “I run around the track, and I’m trying to get up to four miles.” This exercise also prepares him for participating in 5K events, which he enjoys.

While at the Y, Horstman sometimes goes swimming. In addition, “I would like to try the machines,” he reveals.

Luke’s mother, Karen, appreciates that he can come to the Y. “It helps him socialize with other people. Everybody knows him. Running is good for him, and I want him to take care of himself.”

Thanks to our Y’s Annual Campaign to support our Membership for All, Luke receives financial assistance for his Y membership.

Bella Karbowski

Bella Karbowski has come a long way since starting swim lessons as a toddler at the Southeastern Indiana YMCA.

At first, “she was very afraid of the water,” recalls her mom, Lauren. However, “the tight-knit community at the Y helped her and brought her out of her shell.”

“The Y has a really good program, and the progress we’ve seen is great!”

Bella has progressed through lessons, perfecting the swim basics and strokes, and is now taking private lessons to become an even better swimmer. “Her strokes are getting better,” reports her grandpa, Tom Karbowski.

The Batesville Middle School sixth grader participated in a lifeguard camp at Siesta Key Beach in Florida and learned even more skills. Bella notes, “I may try out for the swim team” in the future.

Bella’s younger siblings have also started swim lessons at the Y. “I want to make sure all my grandchildren know how to swim,” Tom emphasizes.

Swim lessons at the Y are subsidized by the annual campaign to allow lessons to be affordable for all.

Where does the money go?

Continuing our tradition of not turning anyone away because they cannot afford a membership or childcare. In 2021, the Y subsidized over $47,000 so that 1,012 children and adults could benefit from membership, childcare, and program scholarships, ensuring everyone, regardless of income or background, has the opportunity to learn grow & thrive.
Safety Around Water - in 2021 Seventy-one children learned essential water safety skills in our Y’s Safety Around Water Course, which can open up a world of possibilities for them to satisfy their curiosity safely. This program was offered at no cost to the community.
Free 6th Grade Membership - For the 2021-2022 school year, Forty-one youth have found a safe space at the Y to belong, be active and learn positive behaviors while surrounded by caring adults, all through our free 6th Grade Membership program.
And so much more! YOU could make a huge difference in a child, individual, or families' life!