Social Responsibility
Social Responsibility: Giving back and providing support to our neighbors
Across Erie County, the Y helps people give back and assist our neighbors by offering them opportunities to volunteer, advocate and support programs that strengthen community. At the Y, we are volunteer-founded, volunteer-led organization. Volunteers are found at every level of the Y – in childcare, health & wellness, youth mentoring, board leadership and more. Through the Y’s We Build People annual scholarship campaign, the Y provides financial assistance and income-based membership rates so that everyone can benefit from Y programs and membership. Additionally, the Y partners with other area non-profits enabling our members to support the community through donations and volunteerism.
Group Interests | Christian Emphasis | Volunteerism & Giving
Group Interests
Quilt/Craft Classes
A variety of projects to choose from throughout the year including making afghans for Empty Arms
Book Club
Moderated by YMCA volunteer Margaret Matthews, the group generally reads one book per month and gathers for discussion over lunch.
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Christian Emphasis Programs
The YMCA of Greater Erie strongly believes in our mission: “To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.” All staff, program instructors, volunteers and leaders include this in their daily work and teachings. The following programs help enhance our Christian emphasis.
Lending Library
We are pleased to provide you with a wide variety of wonderful books in our lending library. These books have been donated and/or purchased by the YMCA for your enjoyment.
Prayer Requests
Prayer requests can be made at a book in the chapel of the branch. Prayer requests are reflected on at Christian Emphasis Committee Meetings.
Biblical Meditation 101
The purpose of this class is to connect the spirit of the participant to the Spirit of the Holy Scriptures. The participant will gain a deeper insight and wisdom relating to issues that they are facing. Students do not need any Biblical knowledge to participate. It is a non-denominational, Christ centered class. Find out more at the Membership Desk.
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Volunteerism & Giving
Help Us Set Their Table – Ongoing Donation Program for the Second Harvest Food Bank
Help us bring food to the tables of families across the region! The Y has teamed up with the Second Harvest Food Bank for an ongoing donation program. Bring what you can, when you can and we will take care of the heavy lifting! Download a list of the region’s most needed items.
We Build People
At the Y, strengthening community is our cause. We are in this community to give everyone an opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. At the Y, no child, family or adult is turned away. We Build People is our annual fund drive which directly raises funds for children, teens, adults ad families to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to benefit from Y membership and programs.
As the nation’s leading nonprofit for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, we use your gift to make a meaningful, enduring impact. Your contribution is invested in people. When you give to the Y, you help move people forward.
The YMCA of Greater Erie is a 501 c 3 charity and is one of the largest philanthropic organizations in Erie County dedicated to helping children and families live healthier, more productive lives in spirit, mind and body. More >>
Financial Assistance
If you are unable to pay the full cost of Y membership or programs, you may apply for partial assistance based on your financial situation. Income based membership rates are also available. Funds for financial assistance are raised by the volunteers of the Y’s We Build People campaign and come from generous individuals and businesses in the community. More >>
Volunteer Information
Volunteers are the strength of our organization. They make it possible to offer the wide range of quality services and programs that we do. Their contributions impact all aspects of the Y. Volunteers assist us in the following areas: aquatics, wellness, fund development, office, special events, committees, youth sports and board leadership. If you are interested in volunteering for the Y, please contact your branch Executive Director. More >>
