Support the West Suburban YMCA

For a Better Us

Frequently Asked Questions

Make An Impact

Q: What does my donation support?
A: Every dollar donated to the West Suburban YMCA will go directly to our Annual Fund, which supports our commitment to keeping our facility open to all, regardless of ability to pay. Our Annual Fund provides financial aid to children, adults, seniors, and families that offers a safe space for youth development, programs for healthier living, and opportunities for social responsibility within our community.

Q: Can I direct my funds to a particular program?
A: Yes! If you would like to support sports, aquatics, fitness, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, or childcare, please include a note on our online donation form or in the memo line of your check.

If you would like to donate to one of our four summer camps to enable children from all economic backgrounds to experience the magic of camp, click here and choose the appropriate camp from the dropdown menu.

Q: What are some other ways to give?
A. Capital Gifts: We are stewards of our properties in Newton, Wayland, and East Brookfield and remain committed to maintaining and improving them so they benefit generations to come. Capital gifts present a powerful opportunity for those who wish to support the bricks and mortar that enables us to make a sustainable impact on children, families, and active older adults.

Planned Giving: A healthy Y capable of making a significant impact in the community is a gift we have received from prior generations, and it is a gift we should pass along, in a stronger position, to future generations. When you consider the Y in your estate planning, we work with you and your professional experts to formulate plans that will fulfill your desire to benefit future generations of children and families in our community through the Y. For more information on planned giving options, click here.

Special Events: The West Suburban YMCA’s two signature events – our Golf Tournament and Gala – pack a one-two punch. Each event gives our community a chance to come together and celebrate all that the Y does, while also supporting our Annual Fund. Our wide range of sponsorship opportunities add the extra bonus of letting the community know what you support. We invite you to join us as a guest or as a sponsor on the course or around the dinner table. To learn more about our events, click here.

Boston Marathon: For the past two years, the Y has received an invitational bib from the City of Newton to participate in the Boston Marathon. Our marathon runners commit to raising $7,500 for our Annual Fund and look to our greater Y community for help in reaching that goal. To learn more and to support our runners’ fundraising efforts, click here.

Q: Is my donation tax deductible?
A: West Suburban YMCA is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization and your donation is tax-deductible within the guidelines of U.S. law. To claim a donation as a deduction on your U.S. taxes, please keep your email donation receipt as your official record. We will send an acknowledgment letter to you upon successful completion of your donation.

Q: How do you recognize donors?
A: Our Annual Fund wall with the individual names of each donor is on display in our Y’s Welcome Center. In addition, our Banner Program recognizes donors who have contributed $1,000 or more in a calendar year with specially designed banners that hang in our fitness center and gymnasium.

Q: Can I give back through volunteering?
A: The West Suburban YMCA welcomes volunteers of all ages and abilities to help fulfill our commitment to social responsibility within our community. For more information on how to become a volunteer, click here.