For many people, growing up meant regular visits to the YMCA. It’s the place where kids learned to swim, teens found a team to belong to, and families felt supported during both good times and hard ones. No matter the town, YMCA memories often sound the same: the first jump off the diving board, early morning practices, summer camps and the steady presence of adults who care. For generations the Y has been a place of hope, belonging and opportunity.
That shared experience is part of something much bigger. The YMCA is one of the largest nonprofit organizations in the world. Over its long history it has helped launch well-known programs and traditions including basketball, volleyball, group swim lessons, aerobics, the Boy Scouts, Toastmasters and even Father’s Day. These contributions are an important part of American history.
But the YMCA’s greatest impacts are felt close to home, inside local buildings, programs and relationships. In Medford and throughout the Rogue Valley that impact continues every day.
Brad Russell, CEO and executive director of the Rogue Valley Family YMCA in Medford, has worked with the YMCA for 35 years, including 20 years in the Rogue Valley. He says the YMCA’s mission is simple: to strengthen communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
The Rogue Valley Family YMCA puts that mission into action through more than 80 programs serving families in 10 southern Oregon towns. These programs promote healthy choices, positive experiences, and strong family values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Programs include childcare, preschool, afterschool care, day and overnight camps, outdoor education, youth sports, swimming lessons, fitness and wellness classes, nutrition programs, recreation, and community events. The YMCA also offers financial assistance scholarships and support to families who need help with budgeting and managing debt.
When asked what he enjoys most about his work, Brad points to the people. “People, meaningful moments, and partnerships that strengthen the community,” he says. “We have our own history. We have our own ‘why,’ and we’re proud of it.”
Like many nonprofits, the YMCA has faced real challenges in recent years. The pandemic, regional wildfires, and recent state and federal funding cuts have all had an impact.
The Avista Foundation is one community partner working to help fill the gap so the YMCA can continue to serve families. A grant from the Avista Foundation helped cover camp fees for youth who otherwise could not afford to attend school break and summer day camps at the YMCA. “We’re grateful for the long and meaningful relationship we’ve had with Avista,” Brad says.
With support from Avista, other foundations, individual donors, and special fundraising events, the Rogue Valley Family YMCA provides about $513,000 in financial assistance each year. This support helps nearly 5,000 children and families with limited incomes take part in YMCA programs.
Brad encourages community members to get involved. “Care about your community, build relationships, and help your neighbors,” he says.
At Avista, we recognize our unique position gives us the chance to contribute in an impactful way and make a real difference in people’s lives. Since 2002, the Avista Foundation has made grants totaling over $17 million to organizations that support vulnerable and limited income populations, education, and economic and cultural vitality. The foundation is a separate, non-profit organization established by Avista Corp., and does not receive funding from Avista Utilities’ customers through rates. For more information on grant applications and geographical areas covered, please visit avistafoundation.com.