Why Belong to the University YMCA?
Our building and programs are always free and open to everyone the campus and community. So why become a member?
When you donate to the Y, you are joining a community of action-oriented, solution-focused individuals who are committed to addressing the issues and concerns of our community and society. Our community is a network of students, alums, and community members who support each other and foster spaces for members to embark on their own journeys of activism, advocacy, and leadership.
Did You Know?
The first $20 of your gift each year makes you a Dues Paying Member of the University YMCA. This is fully tax deductible and allows you to vote for or serve on the Board of Governors.
Anyone can become a Dues Paying Member, including students! Learn more about the benefits below.
General Benefits
1
Translate your values into real work that improves lives and our communities
2
Vote for members of our Board of Governors
3
Be eligible to serve on our Board of Governors
4
Invest in the power of dialogue, action, and reflection as strategies for positive change
5
Ensure that current and future generations can actively work toward a world that is more just, equitable, and sustainable.
Added Benefits for Students
1
Your membership dues go directly to the Student Board
2
Vote for student and community Board of Governors members
3
Get early access to student-centered workshops, events, and programs.
4
A free ticket to our Annual Dinner & Auction in April
5
One free item at Dump & Run's Big Sale in August, up to $10
Where does your membership go?
Your support is a direct investment in our programs and people. We take our stewardship responsibilities seriously. For 150 years, we have helped our members and other donors transform their giving into opportunities for positive change in the lives of students and others in our communities. Approximately 20% of our annual budget comes from donations and membership dues (the rest comes from grants, program sponsorship, building revenue; our endowment provides approximately 10% of our operating budget). We are an independent non-profit and receive no dedicated support from the University of Illinois - although many units across the campus are partners and help to sponsor our programs.
Student membership dues are set aside exclusively for the use by the Student Board. StuBo determines how best to use those resources to support student organizations and programming.
Ready to Join Us?
With your support we offer and champion a diverse set of programs and student organizations committed to social justice, environmental protection, interfaith cooperation and global engagement by fostering dialogue, reflection and action.