It was a record-setting YMCA Strong Kids campaign.
At a celebration luncheon this week at The Local in Belleville, it was announced that the 2023 campaign raised a record-setting $257,000.
Connie Reid of the YMCA tells Quinte News that Strong Kids Co-Chairs Patricia Guernsey and Ken Schmidt lead by example.
“We definitely had amazing volunteers helping us get Strong Kids up and running again after the pandemic. You know we created a pickleball tournament to help raise funds. Who knew pickleball would be the first year to bring in $42,000 and then bring in $105,000. Absolutely amazing and fun!”
Out going co-chair Ken Schmidt tells Quinte News he is humbled by the $250,000 mark and the support from the board, the YMCA, donors and the community.
“I know that moving forward, it’s going to be doable by the next guys (co-chairs) and I feel wonderful that there’s that kind of support in the community for the YMCA.”
Outgoing Co-Chair Patricia Guernsey says knowing your community is critical as a chair.
“And knowing the people in your community to go to, and that are going to step up, because they really came through. We were just very fortunate to know some great people and there’s so many more great people in this community.”
The money raised by the Strong Kids Campaign includes the recent pickleball tournament, which more than doubled the previous years funds raised.
Strong Kids is an annual fundraising campaign, focused on raising much-needed funds to support children, youth and families get an opportunity to participate in programming, membership and day camp opportunities in Belleville and Quinte West.
The YMCA will announce their next co-chairs for the Strong Kids Campaign (two-year term), over the coming days.
Ken Schmidt and Patricia Guernsey
