Guest Column: Make Your Holiday More Than a Tradition; Help the Y Give Back

By Lynda Chott, B.R. Ryall YMCA CEO

As the holiday season is upon us and the end of another year is in sight, the Y is asking the community for their support so that we can give back to those in need.  On Nov. 29, the B.R. Ryall YMCA Christmas tree lot opened on the Y’s property at 49 Deicke Drive in Glen Ellyn. It will remain open until Dec. 24.  Fresh Christmas trees, wreaths and garland are available for purchase.

The tree lot is rich in history and has been around for over 40 years. It is one of the Y’s largest fundraisers of the year, bringing in over $45,000 annually, and it helps the Y carry out our life-changing mission. All proceeds from the sales directly benefit the B.R. Ryall YMCA’s scholarship program, which provides financial assistance to children, individuals and families in our community who need it most.

As a 501(c) (3) nonprofit charitable organization, our Y is sustained in large part by the generosity of others. At the B.R. Ryall YMCA of Northwestern DuPage County, we work hard every day to make sure everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Last year, we gave back over $220,000 to the community through financial assistance and other community support initiatives.  And we couldn’t do this without the financial support from members, volunteers, donors and friends. 

Make your Christmas tree more than a tradition and support the B.R. Ryall YMCA Christmas tree lot this year. To learn more about the Y or to make a gift during this holiday season, visit www.brryallymca.org or contact Kristen Daniels, Director of Development & Social Responsibility, (630) 858-0100, Ext. 216, or email kdaniels@ryallymca.org.