Community-driven initiative ensures access to YMCA programs regardless of financial barriers

Wausau, WI — [December 2, 2025] — The Woodson YMCA announced today the launch of its 2025 Annual Campaign, a community-wide effort focused on ensuring that children, families, and individuals throughout the Greater Wausau area have access to vital YMCA programs—regardless of their ability to pay.

Each year, the Annual Campaign raises critical funds that allow the Woodson YMCA to provide financial assistance, expand community outreach, and deliver life-changing programs that build a stronger, healthier, and more connected community.

“The Y offers so much more than just a place to physically work out.” said Andrew W., Member & Donor. “It offers a place to connect with the community. It offers a place to have other activities and, and opportunities for participation, whether it's connecting with your friends, getting out in the community, volunteering, supporting our community in other ways.”

Meeting Community Needs

The Woodson YMCA’s programs support some of the most pressing needs in the region:

Development – The Y supports children from infancy through adolescence with early-childhood care, sports, swim lessons, camps and more — all guided by core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

Healthy Living – Accessible fitness, aquatics, sports, wellness resources for all ages so people can build healthy habits and live well.

Social Responsibility – The Y works to ensure inclusivity and access for all, through financial assistance, partnerships, volunteering and fostering belonging.

Last year, the Woodson YMCA provided $260,000 in childcare and camp scholarships, and over 2,000 members received a Woodson YMCA Scholarship.

Transforming Lives

For many, the YMCA is more than a gym—it is a lifeline.

“The Y is a tremendous organization within this community.” Said Lindsey L., Board Member & Donor. “It can be daunting to say, is my $25 worth it? I can 100% guarantee you it is worth it. Whatever program it heads towards, whether that be youth, adult, active, older adults, Camp Sturtevant, or just a membership, that person is worth it.”

A Call to Community Support

The Woodson YMCA invites community members, businesses, and local leaders to join the Annual Campaign by donating or helping spread the word. Every contribution supports local families and strengthens the fabric of the community.

“At the Y, having people give can change someone's life. And I've seen it.” Said Paige K., Employee, Member & Donor. “I've seen it in countless families. I've seen it in just programs that we have here. Like people who usually can't afford it, they have the best time because they know they might not be able to do it."

Donations can be made online at https://bit.ly/WoodsonGive, at either Woodson YMCA branch, or by contacting our Director of Financial Development, Traci Wisz.

About the Woodson YMCA

The Woodson YMCA is committed to strengthening the foundations of community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. With two locations serving the Greater Wausau area, the Y provides high-quality programs, welcoming spaces, and inclusive services that empower individuals and families to reach their full potential.