Butler County Family YMCA recently kicked off its 2018 Annual Support Campaign, which funds opportunities to provide YMCA memberships and programs for those in need.

Formerly known as the Strong Kids Campaign, the effort has been renamed in an effort to better describe who the YMCA assists.

“The YMCA's goal is to make programs and services available for all,” said Jill Zoria, the Butler YMCA's development director.

The YMCA raised more than $260,000 toward the program last year — the most it has ever raised, according to Zoria.

“The need in our community continues to grow,” Zoria said. “Our campaign goal for this year is $350,000.”

Campaign Chairman Tammy Schuey, who is assistant general manager of the Butler Eagle and also serves on the YMCA's board of directors and its development committee, called the organization's efforts a vital part of building a stronger community.

“Meeting our goal for this year will enable the YMCA to continue to help people and change lives.”

Read the full story in last Monday's Butler Eagle.