To celebrate Giving Tuesday this year, the Y is highlighting members from around our association who have chosen to make an impact in their community by donating to the Y. Members like Mike Kruchten of the Smith Family YMCA. In this Q&A, he shares his YMCA experience and the value of supporting the Y through charitable giving.

Q: What inspires you to support the Y through charitable giving?

Mike: The Y is an organization I will always plan to contribute to because of the connection with my family. It has always been a great place to go. As a young child I lived about half mile from the Smith Family YMCA. I was pretty involved at the Y and learned how to swim there. My mom was a single parent and I benefited from the after school programs. Now I have three children and still live in close proximity. My youngest son has a prosthetic leg and he recently took swim lessons at the Y. They’ve just done an incredible job serving the community.

Q: What Y programs do you think have had the greatest impact in the community?

Mike: The summer camp programs are awesome for our community. For many kids, who knows what would happen if they were left home alone in the summer. By having that program, it’s an incredible way to give them a chance to learn and grow.

Q: Why do you think it is important to support the Y this year?

Mike: There has been a good portion of our community that has been affected by the pandemic. As a school board member, and a parent, I know the school schedules have caused havoc. It’s important to know that there is an organization like the Y that can step in and assist with child care and remote learning. Donations can help reduce the cost for families, and I know the organization is going to put those donations toward the best resources they feel are needed.

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The Y would like to thank Mike for his generosity and commitment to the Y. To pledge your support through a charitable gift to the YMCA Mission Strong Fund, click here.