GREENFIELD — Franklin County’s YMCA has launched its annual fundraising campaign, with a goal of raising $250,000 to help reduce financial barriers to Y membership and youth programming participation.

Phase 1 of the campaign, focusing on individual and organizational donors, will run from April 12 through May 6. Phase 2, involving building community partnerships with local businesses, begins on June 1.

“As a nonprofit, we rely heavily on grants, donations and the support of our community to make sure our Y is accessible to all,” Grady Vigneau, CEO of Franklin County’s YMCA, said in a statement. “We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without the generosity of our community members, business partners, patrons and volunteers.”

Last year’s record fundraising success enabled the YMCA to expand its member services and facilities across all demographics, particularly for those in need, including young children.

“We accomplished great things from 2020 through 2022,” fundraising campaign Co-Chair Joe Viadero said in a statement. “In the face of daunting challenges, we caught the attention of all age groups, including teens and adults, by upgrading our offerings and prioritizing innovation.”

Considering the residual impact of the pandemic, YMCA staff anticipate the demand for Y programming — especially for families and children — will be historically high.

“With kids having faced increased physical and emotional challenges combined with learning loss over the last three school years, access to Camp Apex and other summer programs will be more important than ever,” Kara Younger, executive director of child care and youth development, said in a statement. “As part of this year’s campaign, our Y is determined to provide these opportunities to even more campers through scholarship aid and camp facilities’ improvement while continuing to meet state and local guidelines to ensure a safe environment for all.”

To donate to the Y’s campaign, visit your-y.org/donate.

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