Second annual YMCA Dinner, Dance, Donate gala was a success

NEWS RELEASE
SAULT STE MARIE YMCA
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On Friday, Mar. 1, 2018, the Sault Ste. Marie YMCA held its 2nd Annual Dinner, Dance, Donate fundraiser at the Delta Hotels Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront.

Approximately 200 supporters attended the second annual event, in support of the local YMCA 2018 Strong Kids Campaign. The event included a superb dinner catered by the Delta, silent auction and entertainment by a dueling pianos company.

Fundraising Coordinator Susan Rajamaki stated, “As a charity, we rely on the generosity of individuals and local businesses to help us continue our vital work, to ensure that no one is turned away with inability to pay full fees. We believe that everyone should be able to participate in programs they need, regardless of their ability to afford the full fees. Thank you to everyone who donated and participated in the event.”

Perhaps the two most touching and poignant parts of the evening were when YMCA Board Chair Bob Burns, took to the stage to speak to what the focus of the Strong Kids Campaign vision looks like for impoverished youth and families in Sault Ste. Marie.

As well, when YMCA CEO Kim Caruso spoke personally of her Y experience, in being raised in a single parent home and finding a place to belong for her and her siblings through the help of subsidized memberships which started her ongoing Y journey and has carried through her life to see her as the current local YMCA CEO.

Following dinner, the audience was treated to a special performance by Mobile Dueling Pianos, who performed a high energy, interactive, sing-a-long, clap-a-long comedy show, which was packed full of songs that that got the attendees clapping and foot tapping along!

The musicians performed a variety of songs that charmed many and the performers put their heart and soul into each and every tune.

Given the resounding success of the Sault Ste. Marie YMCA’s 2nd Annual Dinner, Dance, Donate fundraiser, it is hoped that the upcoming years will provide even greater support of the local YMCA that promotes the development of spirit, mind and body by encouraging healthy lifestyles, personal growth and service to the community.

Special thanks to the Delta Hotels Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront, all silent auction item donors, the volunteers, and especially the attendees.

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