GUELPH – Due to the overwhelming generosity of donors near and far, the Guelph Youth Music Centre’s (GYMC) matching challenge has reached its $50,000 goal.
“We’re so thankful for all our generous donors in helping us reach our goal in such a short amount of time,” commented Gabriella Currie-Ziegler, executive director of the GYMC.
“We’re over the moon with delight and gratitude for the support. Every dollar will allow the GYMC to come back stronger than ever and enable vital programs to continue for children and youth in our community.”
As a consequence of lockdowns and gathering restrictions, most programs held at the GYMC have been suspended, leading to an unmanageable reduction in rental income.
Though all reasonable efforts were made to reduce expenses, the GYMC faced a $100,000 deficit and was in urgent need of support to continue its music and arts programs.
Fortunately, a generous donor pledged to match donations, dollar for dollar, up to a total of $50,000 to help close the gap and the GYMC made an appeal to the community to meet the goal.
Children and youth from six months to 25 years-old regularly engage in many programs at the GYMC on a daily basis. Programs include all aspects of arts education and recreation, including music, fine art, drama, dance, brass rubbing, heraldry, and support for children with special needs.
Some 2,200 children use the centre every week, 22,760 community members participate at the GYMC over a typical year, and 75 concerts, recitals, performances & special events are normally held there.
The Matching Challenge was a rare opportunity to make each donation go further and double the impact.
Donations are still being accepted, as every dollar helps to keep this valuable organization and its programs alive in the community.
How to donate
To donate, mail your cheque payable to: Guelph Youth Music Centre 75 Cardigan Street, Guelph, ON N1H 3Z7
Online donations can be made through Canada Helps at https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/guelph-youth-music-centre/.
