12 Days of Giving logo

Information provided by YMCA of San Benito County. Lea este artículo en español aquí.

At the YMCA of San Benito County, we believe that building a healthier future begins with the opportunities we create today. For children, that might mean learning to swim, making their first friend at summer camp or discovering their athletic skills. For families, it means having access to safe, supportive spaces where they can spend quality time together, stay active and build healthy habits. And for seniors, it means finding opportunities to prioritize their well-being and stay connected with a community that encourages them every step of the way.

This December 1–12, the YMCA of San Benito County is participating in 12 Days of Giving, a local campaign bringing together nonprofits and community members to support organizations serving San Benito County. Our goal is to raise $13,500 to continue creating opportunities for children, families and individuals to learn, grow and thrive.

As children grow, so do their needs and the Y continues to be a place where individuals and families can stay active, connect with others and prioritize their wellbeing through every stage of life. Because while developing healthy habits early is important, it’s never too late to begin.

For Samuel, that opportunity came at a pivotal time in his life.

After experiencing a significant health scare, Samuel’s doctor recommended that he join a gym and lose weight. His daughter brought him to the Y, and what started as a step toward better health soon became part of his everyday life.

Today, Samuel visits the Y at least once a day, and sometimes two or even three times. Since joining, he has lost 10 pounds, established a consistent wellness routine, and found a community that motivates him to keep going. His dedication even earned him recognition as the Y’s Member of the Month in December 2025, just a few months after joining.

“This has been the best thing that happened to me at my age and health. I feel really thankful for all the support from everyone. Everyone here at the Y is very friendly and respectful. It makes me comfortable and motivates me to keep coming,” Samuel said. [Quote translated from Spanish.]

Stories like Samuel’s remind us that the opportunity to grow doesn’t end at any particular age. Whether it’s a child gaining confidence in the water, a parent finding time to care for their health or an older adult building a new wellness routine, everyone deserves the chance to take that next step.

But for many individuals and families, financial barriers can make those opportunities difficult to access.

Through the YMCA’s Financial Assistance program, eligible individuals and families can receive support toward membership and programs, helping make experiences like youth programs, aquatic activities, and healthy living more accessible.

Because the opportunity to live a healthier, more connected life should not depend on someone’s age or financial circumstances.

That commitment is at the heart of the YMCA’s mission, but continuing to provide these opportunities takes the support of our community.

This 12 Days of Giving, help us reach our $13,500 goal and continue opening doors for children, families and individuals throughout San Benito County. Visit centralcoastymca.org or click here to make a donation and help make a difference in your community!

Donations may be designated to one or more campaign agencies or can be shared across all five. 

Donations can also be mailed and delivered to the YMCA of San Benito County at 351Tres Pinos Road, Suite A-201, Hollister, CA 95023, or dropped off at the Community Foundation Epicenter at 440 San Benito Street, Hollister, CA 95023. Please note ‘12 Days’ in the memo field to count for the matching funds campaign! All donations will be distributed after December 12. 

Together, we can help build a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, at every age and every stage of life!