Your generosity can make a significant difference in our neighbors’ lives. Mark your calendar for August 6, 2024, and join us for the #ONEDAY Critical Needs Alert. During these 24 hours, you have the power to amplify your impact and support the essential work of nonprofits in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, including the Sewickley Valley YMCA!
In this exclusive Q&A, we sit down with Amy Richardson, the YMCA’s Director of Development and Communications, to discuss the importance of the #ONEDAY Critical Needs Alert and how it directly benefits our community. Amy shares insights on how the funds raised will support the YMCA’s crucial mission-based initiatives, including early childhood care programs and food programs like QV Food to Families and Free Mini Pantries. She also explains how prorated incentive funds work and how your donations can make an even greater impact.
Read on to learn more about the vital role the Sewickley Valley YMCA plays in our community and how you can help us continue our essential work.
Q&A with Amy Richardson, YMCA’s Director of Development and Communications
How will the Sewickley Valley YMCA use Critical Needs Alert funds?
The Sewickley Valley YMCA will use the funds to support two crucial mission-based initiatives: our early childhood care programs and our food programs, Quaker Valley Food to Families and Free Mini Pantries.
How will donating during the Critical Needs Alert support our community?
Sewickley Valley YMCA programs provide quality early childhood care, groceries and meals for families in need, and non-perishable food staples, ensuring community members have their essential needs met. Donating during the Critical Needs Alert enables donors to make a greater impact on these vital community programs.
How do incentive funds amplify help for these critical needs?
In a dollar-for-dollar match, funds run out once the match amount is reached. A prorated incentive fund is different. Total dollars raised by all organizations determine incentives. Grants will be awarded to every participating nonprofit based on individual donations and incentive funds.
How does what I give impact our entire region?
Together, we can accomplish even greater things! In 2023, the Sewickley YMCA donated over 40,000 pounds of food to the community. More than 1,000 children were in our care last year, learning, growing and thriving. The incentive approach ensures that all participating organizations receive a share of the incentive funds, proportionate to what is raised, making a greater impact in our region.
How do incentive funds work?
Total dollars raised by all organizations determine incentives. For example, if $1 million is raised, and $500,000 in incentive funds is available, each dollar would be increased by 50 cents (up to the first $1,000 per donation). This means that if you donate $100, the nonprofit receives $150. There is a processing or credit card fee (no greater than 5%).
Which organizations receive funding?
Nonprofits with 501(c)3 charity status in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties are eligible for prorated incentive funds.
When will donations be accepted?
The event begins at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. Donations can be pre-scheduled starting Thursday, August 1, 2024, at pittsburghgives.org.
How do I donate?
Donations can be made online with a credit or debit card. All gifts must be made through pittsburghgives.org to qualify for incentive funds.
Is there a gift size limit?
The minimum donation is $25. The first $1,000 of an individual’s gift per organization qualifies for incentive funds, but there is no maximum. You will receive an email from pittsburghgives.org for tax purposes.
Schedule Your Donation
Visit pittsburghgives.org to learn more and pre-schedule your donation starting August 1, 2024. Together, we can make our community stronger and more resilient.
Thank you for your support!