Our Stories, Your Impact

I wanted to
help other kids.

My name is Lucas and I’m 10 years old. I’m going into the 6th grade at Genoa. The thing I’m most looking forward to about next school year is drama club and choir. I did an acting camp earlier this summer, and we put on a comedy play for our parents. It was really fun, and I’ve also done art camps and this one where we played outside. But I’m at Kids Place this week. It’s my first week here this summer. My favorite part is probably seeing my friends and just catching up on our summers. I just made a new friend today. Next week I’m going to Outer Banks with my family, and I’m planning the party. It’s gonna be ocean-themed. I made a playlist, and we’ll have an ice cream bar, and there will be a dance party. It’s with my cousin and, like, my dad’s friends. Also, because the Olympics are this year, we’re gonna do the Olympics where you eat a hot dog and swim down and back in the pool and then chug a pop. It’s parents versus kids, but they don’t stand a chance. We’re more energetic. I’d say I am competitive … and creative. I like coming up with an idea every year for the Guppy Tank Challenge. I always want to participate – and the prizes help motivate you, too! My cousin had a hard time reading, and I did, too, but I gave him some of my graphic novels. And, you know, it’s easier than a chapter book. Everybody has to read something smaller first before you get to chapter books, and comics really helped me, so I wanted to help other kids. I got a prize this year in the challenge, but I was trying to talk my parents into trading my gift card for cash. I want to put it in the bank, so it gets, like, interest and everything in there. My mom works for a bank, and she knows all the secrets, and she tells me. By the way, I wanna give a shoutout to my parents, Miss Rogers, Miss Gina, Miss Joyce, Miss Ward, and all my teachers at Fouse! 

Lucas is a 10-year-old going into the 6th grade this fall. He attended YWCA Kids Place last year and was a finalist in our annual Guppy Tank Challenge!

Your support today directly impacts kids like Lucas who spend at least part of their summer with YWCA Columbus.
Please give now, because every story deserves to be heard, and the next chapter of someone’s life may begin with your generosity.

Give Now


Questions about giving? Our team is here to help!

  • Makiva McIntosh

    Makiva McIntosh

    Chief Advancement & Engagement Officer
    614.627.1203

  • Alissa Clouse

    Alissa Clouse

    Director Of Donor Engagement
    614.627.3916

  • Read Marla's story here and learn more about YWCA Columbus' Women's Residency Program!

  • Is this donation tax deductible?
    YWCA Columbus is a publicly supported organization as described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and our Taxpayer Identification Number (EIN) is #31-4379597. To claim a donation as a deduction on your U.S. taxes, please keep this donation receipt as your official record. No goods or services were received in consideration of such donation.

    Is my donation secure?
    Absolutely. The security and confidentiality of your information is a high priority. We use Blackbaud to protect your credit card information, when used according to manufacturer’s instructions. Blackbaud encrypts personal and credit card information during all transactions and sends an automated confirmation email for all transactions.

    Do you trade or sell contact lists?
    No. From time to time we may share information from a collaborator or partner. However, we will do this ourselves and never provide for others.

    How else can I make a gift to YWCA Columbus?
    YWCA Columbus accepts donations by way of check, credit card, and stock transfer. To discuss donation opportunities, please contact the Office of Advancement at 614-627-1203.

    Mail may be sent to:
    Office of Advancement
    YWCA Columbus
    65 South Fourth Street
    Columbus, OH 43215

  • Ready to spread the word? Download shareable assets for the campaign here!