STRONGER TODAY. BRIGHTER TOMORROW.
The YMCA of Catawba Valley is a place of community and growth for all. We strive each day to build programs that nurture, inspire, nourish, encourage, connect, heal and teach our kids, adults, seniors and families. These efforts help build a stronger community for the entire Catawba Valley Region.
We cannot do it without your help. We count on the generosity of our donors to make a strong statement to the community about the value and importance of the YMCA.
READ MORE ABOUT HOW THE YMCA IMPACTS OUR COMMUNITY MEMBERS:
I don’t even know if I can put into words how much the YMCA scholarship has meant to me and my boys. Last Christmas Eve, I made the hardest decision of my life—I left an abusive relationship. We packed everything we could into a U-Haul, with our Christmas tree being the very last thing we loaded, and I had no idea what life was going to look like for us.
When I found the scholarship program at the YMCA, it felt like a lifeline. It gave us the chance to sign up for daycare and summer camp, and soccer which gave my boys safety, joy, and friendships during a time when everything else felt so uncertain. For me, having the gym has been more than just exercise—it’s been a way to release my stress, clear my mind, and rebuild my strength, not just physically but emotionally. Every step I take in that gym feels like I’m moving forward into a healthier, stronger version of myself for both me and my boys.
Now, seeing my son Julian start soccer again, running out on the field with the same friends they made before, fills my heart with hope. The YMCA has given us more than programs—it has given us belonging. From the staff to the other families, everyone has welcomed us with open arms. You made us feel safe, supported, and part of a family when we needed it most.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving us not just opportunities, but healing, hope, and community.
-Dulce Galvan
My name is Danielle Edwards, and I was born one in 100—a child with a congenital heart defect (CHD), a condition that affects about 1% of newborns. CHD shaped my life from the beginning, but I’ve never let it define me.
On April 16, 2023, I received a heart transplant—a second chance at life after years of living with a failing heart. That moment wasn’t the end of my story, but the beginning of a powerful new chapter. Recovery has been its own journey—full of gratitude, reflection, and an even deeper drive to live fully and advocate for others with CHD. I carry the memory of the donor and their family with me every day, and I honor their gift by making each moment count.
After completing cardiac rehab, I joined the YMCA in January 2025, determined to rebuild my body and spirit. That decision became life-changing. The YMCA gave me access to the tools I needed—equipment, a supportive community, a sauna and steam room for recovery, and a safe, fun place for my 8-year-old son to play while I focused on my health. My son, who I fostered and later adopted, was also born one in 100. He has already undergone three open-heart surgeries. Being able to model a healthy lifestyle for him is one of my greatest motivations. Through our journey together, I hope to show him that strength doesn’t come from avoiding struggle, but from facing it head-on.
A huge part of my transformation wouldn’t have been possible without my boyfriend, Adam, who is also a YMCA member. More than just my partner, he’s been my personal trainer and coach. He’s pushed me when I doubted myself, encouraged me when I wanted to quit, and celebrated every milestone—big or small. With his guidance, I gained strength, endurance, and confidence. In May 2025, I accomplished something I once thought impossible: completing my very first 5K. This journey has been one of resilience, love, and community.
With the support of the YMCA, Adam and the unshakeable bond I share with my son, I’m proving every day that even the most fragile hearts can come back stronger—and inspire others to do the same.
-Danielle Edwards, Phifer Family YMCA member
WHEN YOU GIVE TO THE Y,
YOU ARE BUILDING A STRONG COMMUNITY:
Access & Belonging for All
Your gift helps us ensure access and community for all through high-impact programs that change lives.
At the YMCA of Catawba Valley, our doors are open to all. We offer a place for belonging, relationship-building and celebrating the uniqueness of every individual. Our inclusive network of support helps people from all walks of life find the encouragement and tools they need to thrive, regardless of age, ethnicity, ability or income.
Youth Potential & Academic Success
Your gift helps us inspire kids through programs which promote growth and development.
The YMCA of Catawba Valley realizes that the prosperity and growth of our community relies on the success and nurturing of our children. Understanding that not all children have what they need to always succeed and thrive, we always offer positive experiences with great role models, which promote academic success, develop healthy habits, and build strong self-esteem.
Community Health Challenges
Your gift helps change the outcome for people facing health issues through inclusive, impactful programs.
Chronic health struggles are on the rise, including Type 2 diabetes, obesity, stroke, heart disease, cancer and other conditions. We at the Y are committed to helping people understand the risks of these issues, and we provide the support needed to combat chronic disease, improve activity, and lead healthier, more enjoyable lives.
Drowning Prevention
Your gift helps us save lives through our high-impact programs.
Three children die each day from drowning, with a shocking 88% of youth drowning incidents occurring under adult supervision. That’s why teaching children how to be safe in and around water is a very important necessity. At the Y, we are committed to preventing drowning by giving all kids the opportunity to learn the life-saving skill of swimming.