Invest in Your Community

When you give to the Y, you make a meaningful difference in your community.

You know the challenges that we face in our community. People of all ages and backgrounds are struggling to reach their full potential. More and more children face seemingly insurmountable learning gaps. Families find it difficult to spend quality time together. Playing outside has become a rarity. Face time happens through a phone. And instead of seeing the income gap shrink, it seems all we do is watch it grow. But where society falls short, the Y - and donors like you -- step in. Together we make a difference in the lives of thousands of people and a huge impact on each individual we serve. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How will my gift be used?

Donations to the Annual Support Campaign are used to fund the Y’s financial assistance programs for those who cannot afford to pay the full price for Y programs and services.  In addition, the Annual Support Campaign provides seed money for the establishment of new programs and services or the expansion of programs and services to new communities or neighborhoods.

Why should I give to the Annual Support Campaign?  I already pay my membership dues and program fees.

Membership dues and program fees are established to offset the direct costs of delivering YMCA programs and services to our members and program participants.  Annual Support donations are used to provide scholarships to those who cannot afford the full cost of dues or program registration.  All scholarships are awarded on a financial need-based sliding scale.

I am not a member of the YMCA.  Why should I give?

The Santa Maria Valley YMCA provides the community with quality programs that help children, teens, families and seniors live healthy and productive lives.  If you live, work, or own a business in the area, you can be assured that your donation is making Santa Maria a better place to live, work and raise a family.

What happens if I am unable to pay my pledge at a later date?

We understand that you will make your pledge in good faith.  If, at a later time, unforeseen circumstances make it impossible for you to fulfill your pledge, or if doing so would cause you undue hardship, you may defer or cancel your pledge simply by notifying the Santa Maria Valley YMCA.

Can I give online?

Yes, click here to donate now.

Can I designate my gift to a particular program or branch?

Yes, you can choose to have your gift be applied wherever it is most needed or, if you are connected to a particular branch or program and prefer your gift be used there, just indicate on your pledge card or check how you would like your gift used.

Is my gift tax deductible?

Yes, the Santa Maria Valley YMCA is classified by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.  As such, all charitable gifts received in the Annual Support Campaign are tax-deductible to the extent of the tax code.