As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, the Campus Y relies on your support to ensure that, together, we continue to strengthen the St. Louis community. Please consider making a donation to our cause below.
The impact of your generosity is felt in everything we do at the Y and in our communities. With your ongoing support, we will continue to reach out to those who need us most by allowing access to programs, membership, and activities for all.
Thank you for supporting the Campus Y!
Julia's Y Story
"Community service has always been an important part of my upbringing, and I knew I wanted to become involved in the St. Louis community when coming to WashU. I first joined Campus Y as a Science Olympiad volunteer where I coached Wydown Middle School’s Science Olympiad Team for their regional competitions. I was then introduced to the numerous opportunities that Campus Y offers. Restarting the Arts and Kids Program (arts and crafts after-school program for elementary school kids) the following year allowed me to become more involved and truly find a community here. I found a support system through my peers and the 3 amazing Campus Y staff members. Whenever I needed help or had a question, which happened almost every week, there was always someone willing to help. Through giving a speech to 200 donors at Throwback Prom, our largest fundraiser of the year, and serving as the Philanthropy Director on the Student Executive Board this year, I have learned so much about developing a program from scratch, collaborating with others, and being a community leader.
Everyone always talks about their Y- What's your Y story? Why do you do what you do? I think every year that I have been in Campus Y, my Y has slightly changed, but the underlying message has always been the same. Being surrounded by my peers who are just as passionate as I am allows me to better understand the impact that Campus Y has on the St. Louis community and its volunteers. This has been one of my most meaningful experiences at WashU, and I know that regardless of what path I take after WashU, I will use the skills I’ve learned from being a Campus Y student leader and have the connections I’ve made for a lifetime. And that’s my Y."
Anita's Y Story
"Hello! My name is Anita. I am a Program Leader for WAGS, where we partner with local St. Louis animal shelters and rescues. We spend time with the animals in exchange for helping out at events and around their facilities.
When I first joined Campus Y and became a Program Leader, I honestly wasn’t expecting to spend much time in the Campus Y community outside of what was required for WAGS. Now, after being a Program Leader for two years, my favorite thing about my role is the community!
There’s something empowering about being involved in a cause greater than yourself and Campus Y is a great space for that. I’ve also felt really fortunate to have become close with many of my WashU peers and to have worked with our incredible staff members: Sydney, Laura, and Amber. Any time I had a question (and I’ve had a lot), they were always willing to help out. Most importantly, they genuinely care about their students as people and offer so much support, both inside the space of Campus Y and outside of it. I would encourage anyone to become involved with Campus Y and the YMCA as I’m sure you will find a fantastic community, just as I did!"
Fareeha's Y Story
"The Campus Y has been a huge part of my college journey. During my first semester at WashU, I heard about the Campus Y from many people and places, so I decided to learn more. After visiting the activities fair, I joined a program called Promoting Active Lifestyles (PALs), which aims to help promote healthy lifestyles to children by focusing on exercise and balanced eating. Volunteering with this Campus Y program helped me find my place not only on campus, but also within the St. Louis community.
The following year, I took on a leadership role within the Campus Y, which has immensely helped me improve my teamwork and communication skills. Getting involved with the behind-the-scenes work of an organization dedicated to outreach has been an incredible way to meet new people while also leaving my own mark on the Campus Y's impact. Whether you're looking to volunteer, engage with the community, or meet others with the same interests, the Campus Y has a place for you."