The Lompoc Family YMCA announced a $98,000 fundraising goal for its upcoming 2023 Annual Campaign, which will work to help the community through outreach programming, providing financial assistance to those in need and access to opportunities.
Mark Jackson, Lompoc Family YMCA board member, was selected to chair the campaign to ensure the fundraising goal is met. The 2023 campaign kicks off Thursday, Feb. 2.
Every dollar raised in the annual campaign is applied to placing kids and families in need into YMCA programs including the full day child care and outdoor fitness programming for all ages, the YMCA said.
“Being ‘for all’ is what defines the Lompoc YMCA,” said Thomas Speidel, regional executive director. “We’ve seen that take on a whole new meaning during the pandemic.
“We are not only helping people who want to come to the Y, we’re also helping people in the community, and we want to reach even further.”
Dr. Cindy Blifeld, who has held volunteer roles with the organization, was recently named the campaign’s honorary chair. Dr. Blifeld has lived in Lompoc for almost 30 years, and served as a board member for some 15 years. She helped to provide key guidance and support to youth programs with the YMCA, Spiedel said.
“It’s hard to find organizations that share my common goals, but the YMCA was able to meet those needs,” Blifeld said. “I enjoy supporting organizations that work towards building a community that is healthy for kids and families. “
Annually, the YMCA provides more than $100,000 in financial assistance to families and individuals for membership or programs such as child care, camp, sports, and after-school programs.
“Over the last three years, our community has faced unprecedented challenges,” Speidel said. “We’re proud of the being able to step up and provide important resources to the greater community of Lompoc.”
Donations to the YMCA can be made at the Lompoc Family YMCA, 201 W. College Ave., Lompoc, or by calling 805-736-3483. For more on the annual campaign, visit ciymca.org.