However you choose to spend them, the holidays can mean different things to different people: Family togetherness, traditions and celebrations, staying cozy indoors, and for many, the act of giving! Giving comes in countless forms during the holidays, but perhaps most often through material gifts.

While these possessions can be just the right thing if you’re willing and able to give them, all too often they become obsolete far too soon in a time where technology and fads are constantly changing. With the variety of programs, events and gift certificates available here at the YMCA of Greater Seattle, you have the opportunity to gift something more this year.

1. Give The Gift of The Outdoors

Did you know the YMCA has been a leading provider of youth summer camps for over 130 years? The Y believes that no matter what a child's interests are, or where they are in their journey, we have an outdoor adventure that’s just right for them. From zip lining under a clear blue sky to backpacking through the beautiful Cascades, there are countless options at the Y for how to gift the outdoors to a loved one.

Plus, early bird pricing* is still available until December 16th for summer trips to Camp Colman, Camp Orkila, and Boys & Girls Outdoor Leadership Development (BOLD & GOLD).

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2. Give The Gift of a Weekend Away

You don’t have to be a kid to enjoy a few days at camp! Our overnight camps have one-of-a-kind opportunities to take the family away for a weekend at Camp Colman or Camp Orkila. You can also gift a woman in your life with a well-deserved retreat through Women’s Wellness Weekend in the San Juan Islands. With activities ranging from campfires to kayaking to archery and of course arts and crafts, this would definitely be the gift that kept on giving.

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3. Give The Gift of The Y

Take the guess work out of gift giving and let your friends and family choose for themselves!  The Y offers a variety of gift certificates fit for anyone in your life whether it be the fitness guru, the adventurous child, or the family looking for a one-stop shop for all their interests.  With 13 unique branches across Seattle, there's a Y for everyone. 

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Now more than ever, there’s an endless list of things you can wrap and gift to someone special in your life. But if those options don’t feel quite right, try something new by gifting a loved one with memories that will last a lifetime.

*Every child deserves memories made at camp and experiences that last a lifetime. To learn more about financial assistance through YMCA Camping & Outdoor Leadership, please email campinfo@seattleymca.org.