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$520,000
2026 Mission Strong Fund Goal
Three Simple Ways to Make a Gift
- Pledge Today – Submit a pledge form at your branch or by mail or e-mail, and spread your gift out over the year.
- Give Today – A one-time donation using cash, check, or credit card – either at the branch or online.
- Draft Tomorrow – Let us know at the branch you would like to add-on a monthly donation to your membership draft.
The YMCA of Upper Palmetto is a 501(c)3 charity. The YMCA is the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Our tax ID is 57-0335422.
CASES OF SUPPORT
ACCESS FOR ALL
Removing financial barriers so everyone can belong.
At the YMCA of Upper Palmetto, we believe no one should be left out because of cost. Through Access for All, we provide financial assistance to individuals, families, and seniors—giving everyone the opportunity to grow stronger, healthier, and more connected.
From swim lessons and youth programs to chronic disease support and wellness opportunities, Mission Strong donors help open the door to the Y for those who need it most. Because at the Y, opportunity shouldn’t have a price tag.
Impact Highlights:
- Provides scholarships for membership, programs, and camps
- Supports seniors and families facing financial hardship
- Ensures the Y remains a welcoming place for all
CHILDCARE
Helping kids build brighter futures—one day at a time.
At the YMCA of Upper Palmetto, we’re helping kids build brighter futures through safe, supportive youth programs. Through preschool, afterschool care, day camp, and youth sports,
children grow in confidence, character, and connection.
In welcoming spaces, they discover their potential, build friendships, and thrive through every season. Whether they’re scoring their first goal or engaging in enriching activities after school, Mission Strong donors help ensure every child has the chance to learn, grow, and belong.
Impact Highlights:
- Provides safe care for working families
- Supports academic enrichment and healthy development
- Builds teamwork, confidence, and character through sports
CAMP CHEROKEE
Confidence and leadership take root in the outdoors.
At Camp Cherokee, summer becomes something unforgettable. Operated by the YMCA of Upper Palmetto, this resident camp in Kings Mountain State Park is where kids dive into nature adventures, gather around campfires under the stars, take aim in archery, enjoy water sports, and tackle team challenges.
Along the way, they build friendships, discover who they are, and grow in independence. Mission Strong support helps ensure more children can experience camp—regardless of financial circumstances. Camp Cherokee is more than just camp—it’s a place where confidence, connection, and leadership take root.
Impact Highlights:
- Helps children build independence and resilience
- Provides scholarships so more families can access camp
- Creates lifelong memories rooted in confidence and belonging
LEARN TO SWIM
Water safety for every child.
At the YMCA of Upper Palmetto, we’re not just helping kids learn to swim—we’re giving them the chance for a safer tomorrow. Through partnerships with five local school districts across York, Lancaster, and Chester counties, we teach more than 8,000 children life-saving water safety skills.
For many, it’s their first time in the water—filled with courage, laughter, and learning. These lessons build more than skills; they build confidence and security. Mission Strong support helps ensure water safety isn’t a privilege—it’s part of every child’s story.
Impact Highlights:
- Teaches life-saving swim and safety skills
- Builds confidence and reduces drowning risk
- Expands access through school partnerships
LIVESTRONG® AT THE YMCA
Healing, strength, and hope—together.
At the YMCA of Upper Palmetto, we know the cancer journey isn’t just about medical treatment. That’s why we offer LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA—a free, 12-week program where cancer survivors find strength in a supportive community.
With guidance from compassionate, knowledgeable staff, participants rebuild physical health, restore confidence, and connect with others who truly understand. Because of donor support,
participants can focus on healing—not the cost. Healing is more than physical recovery—it’s about reclaiming life, rebuilding hope, and moving forward together.
Impact Highlights:
- Offers a free program for cancer survivors
- Supports physical recovery, mental wellbeing, and community connection
- Restores confidence and quality of life
PARKINSON'S PROGRAM
Movement, strength, and community support.
A Parkinson’s diagnosis changes life—but it doesn’t define it. At the YMCA of Upper Palmetto, we walk beside individuals and families with compassion, strength, and hope. Through specialized Parkinson’s programs, participants improve balance, mobility, and confidence while building connection with others who understand the journey.
With trained instructors and a caring community, each class becomes a step forward—toward resilience and independence. Mission Strong donors help make these programs accessible and supportive for those navigating Parkinson’s. You don’t walk this path alone—because at the Y, we walk it with you.
Impact Highlights:
- Improves mobility, strength, and balance
- Supports independence and confidence
- Builds community and connection
FIRST THURSDAYS CLUB
A community of joy, friendship, and belonging.
At the YMCA of Upper Palmetto, we believe everyone deserves a place to belong. That’s what the First Thursday Club is all about an empowering program for adults with diverse abilities.
Each month, participants dance, build friendships, and experience joy in a safe, welcoming environment. It’s more than an event—it’s a community where every person is seen, supported, and celebrated. At the Y, inclusion isn’t just a word—it’s a way of life.
Impact Highlights:
- Builds connection and confidence for adults with diverse abilities
- Creates a consistent space for friendship and community
- Promotes inclusion through meaningful engagement
Signature Events
The YMCA of Upper Palmetto Sporting Clays Classic brings together sportsmen, community leaders, and supporters for a day of friendly competition with life-saving purpose. This signature event benefits the YMCA’s Learn to Swim program, helping ensure children across our community gain critical water safety skills in order to provide life saving drowning prevention education. Every shot taken helps protect young lives and strengthen families throughout Lancaster, York, and Chester counties.
🗓️ – March 20th, 2026
📍- Rocky Creek Sporting Clays
3390 Mountain Gap Road
Richburg, SC 29729
Prayer Breakfast
The Celebration of Prayer is a powerful evening of inspiration, reflection, and unity. This meaningful gathering invites our community to come together in faith and fellowship while supporting the YMCA’s mission to serve all. Through uplifting messages, shared prayer, and heartfelt stories, this event highlights the spiritual impact of the Y and helps fund programs that nurture hope, belonging, and well-being for individuals and families in need.
🗓️ – Thursday May 14th, 2026
📍- Rock Hill Sports & Event Center
326 Technology Center Way
Rock Hill, SC, 29730
Charity Golf Tournament
The YMCA of Upper Palmetto Charity Golf Tournament brings golfers and community partners together to make a lasting difference in the lives of local youth. Proceeds from this signature event directly support Youth Development programs and Camp Cherokee, helping children build confidence, character, and lifelong skills in a safe, nurturing environment.
🗓️ – September 28th, 2026
📍- Tega Cay Golf Club
15083 Molokai Drive
Tega Cay, SC 29708
Elf on the Run 5K is a festive, family-friendly race that kicks off the holiday season with joy, movement, and community spirit. Participants sport their best holiday gear and come together to support the YMCA’s Mission Strong Fund, ensuring access to programs and financial assistance for those who need it most. This beloved event proves that a little holiday fun can make a big impact all year long.
🗓️ – December 12th, 2026
📍- Indian Land YMCA
2816 WorldReach Drive
Indian Land, SC 29707
Branch Events
| Event | Date | Case For Support |
|---|---|---|
Boston Butt Fundraiser | February 20th | Charlotte Ave Mission Strong Fund |
Clover/St. Patrick's Day Run | March 13th | Clover Mission Strong Fund |
Skip's Pancake Breakfast | March 14th | Charlotte Ave Mission Strong Fund |
Beloved Ball | May 22nd | First Thursday's Club |
Skip's Pancake Breakfast | July 31st | Charlotte Ave Mission Strong Fund |
Skip's Pancake Breakfast | September 18th | Charlotte Ave Mission Strong Fund |
Olde York Dash at Dusk | October 23rd | First Thursday's Club |
Skip's Pancake Breakfast | November 21st | Charlotte Ave Mission Strong Fund |
FAQ
The Mission Strong Fund is the YMCA of Upper Palmetto’s annual giving fund that supports access, programs, and community impact—especially for those facing financial hardship or barriers to participation.
Yes. The YMCA of Upper Palmetto is a nonprofit organization, and your gift is tax-deductible as allowed by law.
Yes. Gifts to the Mission Strong Fund directly support YMCA of Upper Palmetto programs and families in our local community.
Angie Smith, is a gifted writer, encourager and loving mother of four. Together with her husband, former NFL player Steve Smith, they established The Steve Smith Family Foundation, which is dedicated to providing hope and inspiration to those in need while advancing causes close to the family’s heart – Promoting family health & wellness as well as the awareness and prevention of domestic violence.
Meet Antoinette Johnson, the inspiring culinary star of “America’s Test Kitchen: The Next Generation” Hailing from Lexington, KY, she transforms simple, humble ingredients into extraordinary dishes, all while championing the use of fresh, locally-sourced produce. Through her triumph on “America’s Test Kitchen: The Next Generation,” Antoinette’s unwavering perseverance catapulted her career, proving that with passion and determination, anything is possible. With a heart dedicated to community and a love for supporting local farmers, Antoinette’s journey is a testament to embracing change, fostering growth, and inspiring others to follow their culinary dreams.