YMCA gets $99K in grants

FREMONT — A local YMCA has received new grant funding to support its mission and expand community impact. Through various organizations, the Sandusky County YMCA recently obtained $99,000 to carry out a wide range of community programming and facility improvements. Every cent spent aims to reinforce the Y's mission of serving individuals and families of all backgrounds. "The YMCA of Sandusky County has been committed to addressing the most pressing needs of our community since 1953," said Jeremia Wagner, CEO of Sandusky County's YMCA. "Support through grants and donations to our annual campaign is critical to ensuring we can provide these programs, helping to strengthen our community," Wagner said. "We cannot express enough our gratitude to the United Way, the Lee Koenig Legacy Fund as well as Step Into Swim and the Parkinson's Foundation for all they do to support our Y and our community." Making sense of the dollars and cents Here's how the $99,000 breaks down and where the money comes from: • $50,000 from the Lee Koenig Legacy Fund • $28,000 from the United Way of Sandusky County • $16,000 from the Parkinson's Foundation • $5,000 from Step Into Swim Spotlighting the programs Here's a look at the programs supported by these grant funds with excerpts provided by the Y: • Rock Steady Boxing — "A proven fitness program that helps individuals with Parkinson's improve balance, coordination and overall well-being." • Livestrong at the YMCA — "A research-based program offering cancer survivors a safe, supportive environment to rebuild strength and confidence, free of charge." • Middle school initiative: "A structured, two-hour after-school program featuring homework help, physical activity and healthy snacks, free for local middle schoolers." • Learn to swim: "In partnership with local schools, this program ensures every second-grader learns essential water safety and swimming skills at no cost to families." • Financial assistance: "The YMCA's Y For All initiative ensures that no one is turned away due to financial hardship with support available for childcare, memberships, swim lessons and more." People can learn more about these programs and the YMCA's annual campaign by visiting ymcafremont.org, calling 419-332-9622 or stopping by the YMCA of Sandusky County, 1000 North St., Fremont, during normal operational hours.