Vince and Shannon Preece have seen the effects of the housing crisis in Kent and Renton. They realized quickly that one of the most effective ways to prevent systemic homelessness is to make sure that all people, especially the young, have access to services that enable them to reach their full potential in mind, body and spirit. That’s why when their tenant, Jon Bye (read his story), invited them to get involved with the opening of the new Kent Y, they jumped at the chance.

“We feel that the services the Y offers to struggling families can be the difference between youth staying in school or dropping out and getting involved in unwanted activities.” the Preeces said.

We know that our communities thrive when they have a place to gather no matter their background. At the Y, all people are welcome, regardless of their ability to pay. The Y’s commitment to accessibility means that all people have equal access to all YMCA programs, both traditional and innovative. We offer financial assistance to those who need it in order to access the Y’s programs. Members receive free or reduced cost programs like Wellness for Life (formerly Lose to Win), Pedaling for Parkinson’s, the Y’s Diabetes Prevention Program, before and after school care, swimming lessons, and summer camp.

When asked why they chose to support the Y Vincent said,

“My wife and I donated to the Y because we feel it is a reputable organization with the ability to positively influence our community, and especially homelessness. The Y has a broad base of services, and if you only think about the Y as a gym or a swimming pool, you are missing the bigger picture of the Y.”

When signing up for a membership at the Y, you get more than access to a gym. You help support a cause. We promote programs that get youth into housing, provide education and employment resources to teens and young adults, support foster care families, and much more.

Learn more about how to get involved in the new Kent YMCA at: www.kentymca.org.