The Sewickley Valley YMCA annual campaign isn’t just about providing access to programs and resources—it’s about building a stronger, more resilient community through initiatives like the Quaker Valley Food to Families program. This program, along with the Free Mini Pantry in Ambridge, ensures that individuals and families in our community have access to healthy, nutritious food. And at the heart of these efforts are dedicated volunteers like Hunter K., a 16-year-old YMCA member, volunteer, and donor.
Volunteers Make a Lasting Difference
Volunteers play a critical role in ensuring the success of initiatives like monthly food distributions and the weekly Free Mini Pantry. Their work provides direct support to those in need. As YMCA member Hunter shared, volunteering not only impacts the community but also shapes the volunteers themselves.
“I’ve learned the positive impact of people working together and how offering as little as a couple of hours of your day can make a big difference,” said Hunter.
The Power of Community-Level Action
Hunter’s time volunteering has given him a deeper understanding of how local efforts contribute to larger programs. “It takes more than just federal programs to help with food insecurity; community-level volunteering can also be very helpful,” he explained.
Through his involvement, Hunter sees firsthand how small, local actions can have a ripple effect, helping to address issues like food insecurity in a meaningful way. Programs like QV Food to Families demonstrate that when a community comes together, real change is possible.
Volunteering Builds Confidence and Lifelong Skills
In addition to making a difference in the lives of others, Hunter’s experience has also helped him grow personally. “I put myself out there more than I used to because my people skills have improved,” he shared. Volunteering has boosted his confidence and encouraged him to step outside his comfort zone, which he finds rewarding.
Hunter has also learned the value of seeking advice when trying something new, a lesson that will serve him well in his future endeavors.
Shaping the Future
Hunter’s time volunteering at the YMCA has sparked new interests and helped him consider future career paths. “It’s helping me decide what I want to study in college. I’m considering economics and sustainability issues,” he said. His volunteer work has given him a new perspective on the interconnectedness of community service, economics, and sustainability.
How You Can Help
Volunteers like Hunter are making a significant impact, but there’s always more work to be done. By supporting the Because Everyone Belongs campaign, you can help fund programs like Quaker Valley Food to Families, ensuring that everyone in our community has access to essential healthy and nutritious food.
To learn more about our annual campaign, visit www.sewickleyymca.org/belong. Or, contact a team member in YMCA Development and Communications.