Advocacy
Stronger Together With One Voice
Anchored in more than 52 communities in South Carolina, the Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence to not just promise, but to deliver lasting personal and social change. The SC Alliance of YMCAs is committed to educating local, state and national leaders on how the Y strengthens the foundations of community. We are:
For Youth Development – We believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. That’s why, through the Y, thousands of youth today are cultivating the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health and educational achievement.
- SC Ys are the largest provider of childcare/Out of School Time programs. We educate on legislation that increases access, affordability and quality of youth programs and services to help every child in SC reach their full potential.
For Healthy Living – In communities throughout South Carolina, the Y is a leading voice on health and well-being. The Y is a place that brings families closer together, encourages good health and fosters connections through fitness, sports, healthy eating, fun and shared interests. As a result, 226,000 children, adults and families are receiving the support, guidance and resources needed to achieve greater health and well-being for their spirit, mind and body.
- We educate on legislation that relates to evidence-based strategies to reduce rates of chronic diseases – the nation’s leading causes of death and major drivers of health care costs – including obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
For Social Responsibility –The Y has been listening and responding to our communities’ most critical social needs for nearly 160 years. Whether developing skills through education and training, welcoming and connecting diverse demographic populations through global service, or preventing chronic disease and building healthier communities, the Y fosters the care and respect all people need and deserve. The YMCA volunteers, donors, leaders and partners throughout the state are empowering South Carolinians to be healthy, confident, connected and secure.
- We educate about the importance of preserving the charitable contribution tax deduction. Charities should not be hindered in efforts to raise private dollars to meet community needs.
Advocate with the Y:
YMCA Advocates Action Network: Lend your voice to support our cause
After nearly 170 years of serving our nation, the Y understands what our community needs to be its best. Working with many partners, the Y provides everyone the opportunity to be healthy and thrive, to connect with others, give back and contribute to a better community. Everything the Y does is in service of making us—as individuals, and a community—better.
When you advocate with the Y, you take an active role in bringing about meaningful, enduring change for your family, friends and community.
As an advocate of the Y, you can help:
- Influence policies and initiatives that help youth develop healthy behaviors, values and life skills
- Prevent and combat chronic disease
- Build trust and understanding among community groups and decision makers
- Positively impact societal issues of importance to the nation and your community
The Y is a nonprofit like no other. Advocate in support of a movement working every day to build healthier communities.