According to YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas Board Chair Jill Magnuson,
“I’m Jill Magnuson, the Director of External Affairs for the Nasher Sculpture Center and a long-time volunteer with the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas. In 2020, I was appointed the Board Chair for the Dallas YMCA, only the second woman in the organization’s 135-year history to serve in this role.
“I have been volunteering in Dallas for decades. Now, more than ever, I believe it’s important we think about how we can lead with compassion by serving our community and providing for others who need a helping hand during this health crisis and beyond.
“Like so many nonprofits in North Texas, the YMCA has been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. But that hasn’t stopped us from serving the community outside the walls of our branches where people needed us the most. Thanks to the amazing YMCA staff, volunteers and partners, we launched the Catalyst Initiative (the Y’s COVID response program) that has served more than 46,000 people through the pandemic. We’ve provided 91 tons of produce to people in need, 51,907 meals, served more than 3,300 children in Y Learning Academy visits, distributed 450 laptops so families could learn online remotely and more than 800 school supplies.
“This is truly our moment to grow and serve more of our community and I want to continue this work with your help. The Y now is going to double down to meet the needs of the community – whether its economic-based needs, education needs or mental wellness needs. We will continue to expand services we offer by partnering with organizations to serve more youth and families.
“I ask that during the holiday season, you join us in the life-changing work we are doing in the neighborhoods in Dallas that need it the most by making the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas part of your charitable giving. You can learn more and make a donation by visiting www.ymcadallas.org/supportthey.
“In the months ahead, we must look forward and be engaged in change and thoughtfully consider how we can all make a meaningful impact in our community.”
* Graphic/photo provided by YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas
Jennifer Pascal says
Tahnk you, Jill! You are a tireless advocate for the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas.