Palatine Y kicks off scholarship campaign

The Buehler YMCA will experience its own form of March madness with the start of its annual Scholarship Campaign. This year’s theme, “Y the Hoopla,” will bring basketball decorations and mini games to the Buehler lobby throughout this year’s campaign.

The YMCA’s Annual Scholarship Campaign raises money for Buehler’s scholarship fund. Although many people assume their local YMCA is simply a health club, Anne Springer, Buehler’s health enhancement director, points out that the Y is also a nonprofit charity. “It’s in our mission not to turn people down if they cannot afford to pay,” Springer says.

In 2010, Buehler YMCA gave out more than $280,000 in financial aid. Buehler officials expect the need for such aid will be greater this year, despite news that the national economy is rebounding.

“There is no sign of a better economy among our scholarship applicants,” says Gail Oliphant, Buehler financial director. “The volume is growing.”

In 2010, Buehler members and staff raised $107,000 for the Strong Kids Campaign. This year’s goal is $150,000, Oliphant says. All funds donated to the Buehler YMCA will remain in Palatine.

Various events through March and April will keep Buehler members aware the Annual Scholarship Campaign is under way. “It’s the goal of putting ‘fun’ in fundraiser,” Springer says.

A dance-a-thon featuring members of the Zumba and Group Groove classes took place Saturday, March 5. Other fitness classes will participate in marathons Saturday, March 12. Those classes include Group Power, Group Kick, Fit and cycling.

Saturday, April 9, will be Torture the Trainer day. For a donation ($20 for 10 minutes), Buehler members will be able to reverse roles and give their personal trainers a workout.

During the campaign, Buehler YMCA will raffle off one six-month and two three-month memberships. Raffle tickets cost $10 each, or three for $25. Tickets are available at the Buehler front desk or from member volunteers.

The winners will be announced at Rock Night 5, April 14, at Durty Nellie’s, 180 N. Smith St. The festivities will include “performances” by members of Buehler’s Group Groove and Zumba classes.

While Rock Night 5 will be the culmination of Y the Hoopla events, donations to the Annual Scholarship Campaign will be accepted all year long. All donations are tax-deductible.

For more information on Buehler YMCA’s Annual Scholarship Campaign or how to make a donation, contact Anne Springer at (847) 410-5215.

Ÿ Send Your news to nbrcalendar@dailyherald.com.