What is the Y Foundation?

What is the difference between the Lancaster Family Y and the Lancaster YMCA Foundation?
The Lancaster Family Y created the Lancaster YMCA Foundation in the late 1970s to establish an endowment fund. The original stated purpose was to create a vehicle whereby donors could contribute toward assisting the Y meet its long-term stated mission and objectives. Today, although the Y has evolved and changed during the last 30 years to meet the current needs of our community, the purpose of the Foundation is still the same: "to provide and serve as stewards for an endowment that will preserve the mission and services of the Lancaster Family YMCA." The YMCA Foundation is a vehicle for friends and supporters to make gifts that will support the Y in perpetuity.

What types of gifts or assets will be accepted by the YMCA Foundation?
The YMCA Foundation will accept gifts of cash, appreciated securities, life insurance, real estate, and gifts of retirement assets. Click here for more information on various ways to give.

How does an endowment gift differ from my gift to the annual Campaign for Youth?
Your annual support gift is used by the Lancaster Family Y to provide financial assistance to families and children in need. This important effort provides a critical level of support but does not completely cover the amount of subsidy required to meet the needs of families and individuals across our service area. Additional support, such as endowment funds, helps to fill this need so the Y can continue to fulfill its mission every day. A strong endowment fund also provides the Y with funding to pursue emerging opportunities and react to changing community needs.

Will my contribution to the Lancaster YMCA Foundation be tax deductible?
Yes. The Lancaster YMCA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization, so contributions are deductible to the fullest extent of the law. We would be happy to discuss with you and your professional advisor various options for tax-effective giving.