Nearly 300 riders raised more than $80,000 for local children and youth at the YMCA of Okanagan鈥檚 largest fundraiser of the year, YMCA Cycle for Strong Kids. The amount will benefit more than approximately 500 local kids.

鈥淲e are truly overwhelmed by the generosity of our donor community,鈥� said fund development general manager Rhonda Zakala. 鈥淭hank you to all who supported this event. Because of you, we are able to continue offering financial assistance to thousands of families who depend on it to participate in crucial YMCA programs.鈥�

With one in five children in the Central Okanagan living in poverty, many families are unable to enroll their kids in everyday activities. Having equal access to character and strength building programs such as preschool, summer camps, sports, and aquatics has a big impact on a child鈥檚 success.

The YMCA Strong Kids Campaign allows the YMCA to financially subsidize programs and services for families who would otherwise not be able to participate. These donations also allow the Y to offer select community programs completely free, teaching children critical life skills that will help them stay safe around water, keep up to their peers in school and remain healthy and active year round.

For more information on the event and to see how you can get involved in Cycle for Strong Kids 2018, contact Rhonda Zakala at 250-491-8672. To learn more about supporting a stronger local community of children through the YMCA .