The YMCA of Greater Augusta will officially launch its 2026 Annual Fundraising Campaign to raise $1.7 million at a kickoff and prayer luncheon Feb. 10.
The event will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Columbia County Exhibition Hall, 212 Partnership Dr., Grovetown, according to a news release from the YMCA of Greater Augusta.
“This campaign is about far more than meeting a financial goal, it’s about showing up for our community and shining a light where it’s needed most” said Catie McCauley, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Augusta. “Every dollar raised helps ensure that we can meet families where they are, ensuring children sleep in safe beds, families have access to nutritious meals, kids learn life-saving water safety skills, and individuals of all abilities and backgrounds have the opportunity to thrive. When you give to the Y you are not just making a donation, you are helping transform lives and strengthen our community.”
As a faith-based organization, the YMCA of Greater Augusta is honored to incorporate prayer into the campaign kickoff. Ten pastors from across the CSRA, representing a variety of denominations, will each lead a focused prayer over specific areas of the YMCA’s mission, creating a powerful spiritual foundation for the work ahead, the release said.
The 2026 Annual Campaign will feature a game show–themed celebration, with YMCA locations creatively representing classic game shows through costumes, decorations and skits, highlighting the joy, unity, and sense of belonging that define the YMCA experience.
Each year, the Family YMCA provides more than $2 million in financial assistance, ensuring children, families, seniors, and individuals across the CSRA have access to life-changing YMCA programs regardless of income. Funds raised through the Annual Campaign directly support the YMCA’s financial assistance program and essential outreach initiatives, including:
- A Place to Dream – Providing beds, linens, Bibles, and stuffed animals to children without safe sleeping arrangements. Since 2017, more than 2,100 beds have been donated to local families.
- Cheryl’s Kitchen Food Program – Serving children and families facing food insecurity through YMCA food pantries, mobile distribution sites, and pop-up grocery giveaways. In 2025 alone, 560,440 meals were served across the CSRA.
- Safety Around Water – Teaching children critical, life-saving water safety skills at no cost. More than 2,687 children had access to this water safety instruction in 2025.
- Camp I.V.E.Y. – A week-long overnight summer camp for children with disabilities.
- LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA – Helping adult cancer survivors regain strength, confidence, and well-being after diagnosis.
In 2025, the YMCA of Greater Augusta raised $1,643,954 through its annual campaign. To donate online, go to thefamilyy.org/donate.
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