The funds will be used to fund membership scholarships, with plans to distribute more than $100,000 in 2024.

“We are entering a period of growth and revitalization, and this is the perfect time to tell our story to the community,” said Susan Christiano, president of the YMCA Board of Directors. “We live in a community full of philanthropists and our mission goes beyond just being a gym.”

The YMCA of Fulton County has 560 members, including 200 families, and the organization estimates that number will reach 700 members by the end of the year.

Christiano said one of the YMCA’s goals is to make it accessible to everyone, regardless of financial hardship.

“The YMCA is a hub for the community, where people come to get fit and stay fit,” she said. “There are people with special needs who may be struggling with diabetes or obesity and contributing to other health issues. So it’s important that we have people here who can participate in classes and for personal training.”

Jesus Soto, interim CEO, who holds this position until Jodi Perry takes over on Nov. 6, said the local YMCA would award between 10 and 15 scholarships per month to individuals and families experiencing financial hardship.

He said 95 percent of scholarships are cost-shared between the member and the YMCA, although some memberships are fully funded by scholarships.

The YMCA offers memberships at various rates and provides financial assistance to ensure accessibility. It also offers child care services, including licensed day care and a child monitoring program, emphasizing the importance of family support.

“We want to make sure that we’re not turning away people, even low-income families or single-parent families, where people can’t afford a job because they can’t afford send their children to be educated. ” said Charlene Millias, YMCA child care director.

Cycling instructor Molly Whitaker said the Fulton County YMCA also offers different times for group exercise classes.

“You’ll just see a lot of people coming and getting exercise and camaraderie at the same time,” she said.

The fundraising is part of an annual support campaign. To donate, visit www.fultoncountyymca.org/giving.

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