The YMCA set a lofty fundraising goal for 2019, but the caring residents of the county met and exceeded that benchmark.

Jill Zoria, the director of marketing, strategy and research at the Butler YMCA, said donations passed the goal of $400,000.

The final amount still is being calculated by the nonprofit.

She said the annual fundraising campaign benefits many and varied YMCA programs, including memberships for families, youth and seniors in need; the Reach and Rise youth mentoring program; the summer food program; swim safety and many more efforts in the community provided by “the Y.”

“So much of what we do is about empowering young people to reach their full potential,” Zoria said.

Zoria said the 2018 goal was $350,000, which was barely met.

She attributes the generosity shown this year in part to the Y's ability to meet and talk with members of the community about the programs offered, but mainly to the mindset of most residents.

“I think it just shows how much Butler cares,” Zoria said.

She said $11,000 was raised Dec. 3 alone during Giving Tuesday, when members and visitors paid $10 per half-hour to try out the Y's state-of-the-art new stationary bicycles. Pictures, snacks, music and other festivities occurred at the event.

“Giving Tuesday was an awesome day for the Y for donations,” Zoria said.

The $400,000 goal was also met and exceeded as the result of a handful of donations near the closing of the campaign.

“Some very generous donors came in at the end of the year,” Zoria said. “Some individual families who care about the Y.”

She said each year's goal matches the community need seen by the YMCA staff.

“It's not just a random number,” she said.

The YMCA has been in Butler County for more than 130 years and continues to provide essential services, Zoria said.

“It's wonderful to have a YMCA because of our commitment to strengthen the community by connecting all people to their potential, their purpose and each other,” she said.

The YMCA plans to continue to thrive in the county for many years to come, due to the generosity of citizens who understand the organization's mission, she said.

“We can't thank the community enough for their continued support,” Zoria said. “We all live in and love this community together.”