Thursday, November 20, 2025
Dear Friends,
As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, I am grateful for the support and sense of belonging we experience together throughout our YMCA community. Whether it’s participating in a food drive to support our Early Head Start families, enjoying a family craft night at the Y, or simply gathering with friends at one of our family centers, this season invites us to reflect on the many blessings in our lives. At the Tampa YMCA, we are especially grateful for the members and staff who walk through our doors each day. We are thankful to be a place where our community can come together to improve their health, strengthen relationships, and enhance their sense of belonging.
This month also presents a meaningful opportunity to honor two observances closely aligned with our mission: Veterans Day and Military Family Month. To our active service members, military families, and veterans, we extend our deepest gratitude. Your selfless courage in defending our freedoms and ensuring we can gather with loved ones in peace is a sacrifice we will never forget. We honor you, we appreciate you, and we remain committed to being a place where you feel welcomed, supported, and valued.
As we continue to celebrate gratitude and community, I would like to invite you to join us on Thanksgiving morning for our annual Tampa YMCA Turkey Gobble Race. This holiday tradition brings together families, friends, neighbors, and over 5,000 runners of all ages for a fun and healthy start to the day. More importantly, the race directly supports our healthy living programs where we work every day to help individuals manage, or even prevent, chronic disease. Please find out more on how you can register or volunteer here. We hope to see you there!
As we look ahead, we will be celebrating Giving Tuesday on December 2nd. This is another great opportunity to support your YMCA’s mission. Your generosity helps ensure that every family, regardless of their financial circumstances, has access to programs that foster connection and well-being.
Thank you for being such an important part of our YMCA. We hope your Thanksgiving holiday is filled with blessings of good health, family, friendship, and a renewed sense of gratitude.
With appreciation,
Matt Mitchell
President & CEO