YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick launches 2024 Fundraising Campaign

Saint John, NB— The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick launched their 2024 Fundraising Campaign today. The annual campaign ensures everyone has access to Y programs and services – enriching the lives children, youth, adults, seniors, and families in southwestern New Brunswick.

In addition to the annual campaign, a transformational project was also announced, which will provide after school care and outdoor education at the Glenn Carpenter Centre.

Through this campaign, thousands of people will have access to the Y through summer day and overnight camp, licensed child care, youth mental health support, recreational activities, programs for seniors to stay connected, and health and fitness memberships, which include swimming lessons.

The goal for 2024 campaign is to raise $2 million, which will have a direct impact on more than 3,500 throughout southwestern N.B. The campaign also includes fundraising for construction at the Glenn Carpenter Outdoor Education Centre.

The 2024 Honorary campaign Co-Chairs are Dale and Wendy Knox, long time members and supporters of the YMCA and Glenn Carpenter’s legacy.
Wendy’s Y story dates back to her childhood, when her father, Glenn Carpenter was a dedicated volunteer, involved in the service club and activities. Later in life, the Y has remained a part of Wendy and Dale who have been integral in developing and enhancing the Glenn Carpenter Centre’s journey.

“The Y allows anyone and everyone to participate, just as Glenn had hoped,” Dale explained. “There are not many communities that have what we have, a facility like the Glenn Carpenter Centre close to the downtown core. It is something that we should celebrate and continue to invest in for future generations.”

For more than two decades the Glenn Carpenter Centre has been a place where children can be their authentic selves – safe, joyful, and immersed in nature. The Centre was donated to the Y in 2000, in a very quick turnover, just ten short days before Glenn’s passing. Glenn has truly established a lasting legacy.

Today, the Glenn Carpenter Centre continues to thrive, welcoming 1,000 children each summer. Dale and Wendy are inspired by the Centre’s impact, witnessing former campers return as counsellors, embodying Glenn’s mission of nurturing future leaders.

Dale and Wendy are excited for the future growth of the Glenn Carpenter Centre with the plans for an after school and outdoor education program. And as the Centre continues to expand, the Y along with Dale and Wendy’s commitment ensures that Glenn’s legacy lives on, inspiring future generations to embrace the spirit of generosity and compassion.

The 2024 campaign still needs to secure $1,275 million for the completion of the Glenn Carpenter Outdoor Education Centre. To learn more about how to support this special project or to donate to Strong Communities, visit: https://swnb.ymca.ca/gratitude-2023/

–30-

About The Glenn Carpenter Centre

The Glenn Carpenter Centre stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Glenn Carpenter himself, a man whose vision was to create a haven accessible to all children. His dedication to the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick has left a mark on generations to come. Over two decades, the Centre has been a beacon, serving thousands of youth, thanks to the commitment of Dale and Wendy Knox.

About YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick

The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick is a trusted charity that ignites the potential in people, fostering lasting personal and social change. We are committed to providing opportunities for people to shine through a variety of programs and services, including health, fitness and recreation, licensed child care, camps, outdoor education, employment, education, newcomer services, leadership development and volunteer opportunities. With over 19 locations and supporting more than 22,000 people in Southwestern New Brunswick, the Y is a leading charity that helps everyone shine.

Media Contact:
Erin Lawlor
Manager of Marketing and Communications,
YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick
e.lawlor@saintjohny.ca
506-608-6200