Strong Start Campaign - 2026 Annual Giving (Afterschool Scholarships)

Strong Start Campaign - 2026 Annual Giving

Funder: Greater Kingsport Family YMCA

Geographic Scope: Greater Kingsport area (Kingsport City, Sullivan County, and Hawkins County, Tennessee)

Campaign Theme: "Building Strength That Lasts"

Overview

The 2026 Annual Giving Campaign, titled "Strong Start," focuses on providing scholarships for YMCA afterschool programs and summer camp. Gifts support children's access to safe learning environments regardless of family financial circumstances.

Focus Areas

• Afterschool Care Scholarships: Provides access to on-site afterschool programs at 19 schools across three school systems
• Summer Camp Scholarships: Supports youth participation in summer camp programs
• Child Care Scholarships: Assists families with childcare costs

Mission & Impact

• Ensures every child has a safe place to grow, learn, and build confidence
• Removes financial barriers for families unable to afford programs
• Strengthens families and community foundation through youth development

Programs Supported

#### Afterschool Programs

Operating since 1983

Serves approximately 300+ children

On-site at 19 schools across Kingsport City, Sullivan County, and Hawkins County

Includes:

- Homework assistance
- Reading and language improvement
- Learning and enrichment activities
- Services for children with and without disabilities

YMCA Feeding Program: Daily 5-component USDA-compliant meals (Monday-Friday, year-round)

Serves 21 afterschool sites and 8 outreach sites

#### Summer Camp Programs

Operating since 1984

Serves approximately 350 local youth daily

Operating at five school locations

Serves rising first through eighth grade

Coverage: Hawkins County, Sullivan County, Washington County

Activities: Swimming, field trips, disc golf, crafts, skill activities

Qualified, DOE safety and awareness licensed staff

Goal: Safe place for children to create lasting memories and build confidence

Community Impact

• Serves approximately 18,000 people in the community
• Around 300 children receive safe, fun afterschool programming
• Over 500 people have learned to live healthier lives through Y programs
• All donations stay in the region for lasting community impact

What This Supports

• Opening doors for children to belong, thrive, and discover potential
• Removing barriers for families facing financial hardship
• Supporting bold growth and new opportunities at the YMCA

Core Values

• Youth development
• Healthy living
• Social responsibility