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GREATER PEORIA FAMILY YMCA
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Bridge the Gap

Annual Scholarship Campaign

For more than 175 years, the YMCA has been committed to strengthening communities by connecting people to their potential, purpose, and each other. We are more than a place, we are a community where everyone can belong, grow, and contribute to something bigger than themselves. And that is where you can help by being a party of building the bridge in 2026. We believe every child, family, and individual deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive, regardless of financial barriers.

Give Today

At the YMCA, we believe everyone should have access to programs that support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. But for many in our community, financial barriers can stand in the way.

Through our Bridge the Gap Scholarship Fund, we work to ensure that no one is turned away due to inability to pay, because access isn’t just important, it’s essential.

Your support helps remove barriers and creates opportunities for individuals and families to reach their full potential.

When you give, you’re doing more than making a donation, you’re opening doors.

Your generosity helps provide:

  • Safe, nurturing spaces for children to learn and grow
  • Access to life-changing programs like swim lessons, childcare, and wellness initiatives
  • Opportunities for individuals and families to connect, belong, and thrive

At the Y, we are committed to creating welcoming environments where people of all backgrounds and abilities can fully participate and feel valued.

At the Y, equity means ensuring every person has the access and opportunity they need to thrive.

We are committed to removing barriers—whether financial, social, or systemic—so that everyone in our community can participate fully and with dignity.

Your gift helps make that commitment a reality.

Real People. Real Impact.

Because of donors like you, families in our community can access resources they need to succeed.

A parent can go to work knowing their child is in a safe, supportive environment.
A young person can build confidence through sports and mentorship.
An older adult can find connection, wellness, and a sense of belonging.

These are not just programs they are pathways to stronger, healthier communities.

Together, We Can Build a Better Us

When you give to the Bridge the Gap Campaign, you’re not just supporting programs—you’re investing in people, strengthening families, and creating a more inclusive, connected community.

Every dollar stays right here in Peoria, IL and directly supports individuals and families in our community.

YOUR GIFT DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Check out the 2025 Impact Report (coming soon)

2025 IMPACT REPORT!

Corporate Matching Gifts!

Local Corporate Matching Programs:

Support the YMCA through a corporate match! Check to see if your organization matches financial gifts today!

Questions?

Allison Vershaw
Director of Fund Development
allison.vershaw@peoriaymca.org
309.692.7631

Swimmer swimming

$40

Make A Splash
A $40 donation provides 8 Safety Around Water swimming lessons to an at-risk child.

$75

Have an Impact
A $75 donation provides healthy meals & snacks for 35 children in our Y-on-the-Fly and Summer Camp programs

$148

For Social Responsibility
A $148 donation makes it possible for a senior couple on a fixed income to attend the YMCA for three months of social interaction while developing a healthy lifestyle at the Y!

$250

For Youth Development
A $250 donation provides support for our youth & teen outreach programs like STRONG Kids and Teen Reach

$540

For Healthy Living
A $540 donation allows a child to participate in the Y’s Winter Swim Team.

$1,000

For a Better Peoria
A $1,000 donation helps us expand program offerings that build healthy spirits, minds, and bodies by putting Christian principles into practice.