Annual Giving Campaign’s Community Phase Launched

As a long-time Campo Family YMCA member, volunteer and donor - Jessica Harris beautifully and succinctly shares why people should donate to the Y: “The YMCA provides a place for people of all ages to be healthy and social, regardless of their ability to pay.”

Her words are an essential reminder as the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA launches the community phase of our Annual Giving Campaign (AGC). The AGC is the Tampa YMCA's primary fundraising effort to ensure we can continue to provide life-changing programs and services to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. It’s about strengthening the foundation of our community—helping kids thrive, supporting families and improving overall health and well-being.

“We practically raised our family at the Campo Y. My children enjoyed the pool, the Stay & Play, ballet and karate classes plus many hours of multiple sports,” recalls Jessica. 

“In 2022, we named the gymnasium after my late husband, Norm, who passed away in 2018. He coached 60 teams in 13 years, many of those teams at the YMCA. We named the gym after him to honor his dedication to young people and to provide future athletic scholarships. It has become our favorite place to visit and remember Norm. We now host an annual 3v3 basketball tournament to raise additional funds for athletic scholarships. Now, a whole community has a place to celebrate Coach's life,” continues Jessica, who is the President of the Norman A Harris Jr. Scholarship and is the Campo YMCA’s Board Chair.

Tina Kroger, Tampa YMCA’s Executive Director, Annual Giving is thankful to Jessica and all the Tampa Y supporters. 

“The funds raised through the AGC go directly toward providing financial assistance for memberships and programs, ensuring that no one is turned away due to an inability to pay. It supports youth development programs like swim lessons, after-school care and summer camp and wellness initiatives that promote mental and physical health for all ages.”

Last year, the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA raised $1.9M through the AGC, with $355,000 coming from the community phase alone. Over 124,000 families received financial assistance last year thanks to the AGC.

“The generosity of our members and local partners played a huge role in making that possible. We want everyone to know that every dollar raised stays in our local community, directly impacting lives right here in Tampa. When you give to the AGC, you’re investing in your neighbors, your friends and the future of our community. Your donation helps provide kids with a safe place to grow and thrive, ensures seniors have access to wellness programs and gives families a support system that strengthens them in every season of life,” continues Tina. 

“The Tampa YMCA is far more than just a gym—it’s a cornerstone of the community where people come to connect, grow and feel supported. Your gift to the AGC allows us to continue offering these life-changing programs and make the Y accessible to all. Thank you for helping us build a stronger, healthier Tampa!”

Keep an eye out for AGC events at your local YMCA. 

To support the Tampa YMCA, please donate here.