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.

Last year $279,196 in financial assistance was given to support memberships and programs for 1,630 people. The YMCA raised more than $260,000 toward the program last year — the most it has ever raised, according to Zoria.

She said the goal this year is to raise even more.

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

Through an already-in-progress employee and board fundraising campaign the YMCA has already received pledges of more than $45,000, she said.

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.

“As a board member I have seen first-hand the impact that our YMCA branches have in our communities,” Schuey said. “Meeting our goal for this year will enable the YMCA to continue to help people and change lives.”