Providing School Supplies to Children
At the Y, we believe that every child should start the school year ready to excel.
Unfortunately, there are youth in our community who start school without the supplies they need - whether that's clothing, book bags, notebooks or other basics.
Bright Beginnings aims to change that. With your support, we can help each child be positioned for success.
How Bright Beginnings Works
We work with schools and search within our programs to identify children and families in need. There is no cost to a child’s family to participate.
We count on the generosity of individuals, organizations and corporations, and we are determined to help 500 children with school supplies this year. But we need your help.
All donations are greatly appreciated; sponsoring 10 children ($1,500) or even just one or two children at $150 each makes a difference.
Together, We Make Back-to-School Brighter
In 2025, Bright Beginnings brought together our Y community to support 438 youth across Guilford and Rockingham Counties with back-to-school shopping, supplies, and encouragement to start the year with confidence. With the help of volunteers and the generosity of our community, we raised over $60,000 to make this program possible!
Volunteer for Bright Beginnings and Get Involved
Our annual, beloved community program is back for summer 2026! Our team is finalizing shopping dates and searching for supporters. Join us as a volunteer or sponsor for the 2026 program.
Bright Beginnings is also a wonderful opportunity to rally groups of volunteers for a meaningful cause! This meaningful volunteer opportunity is great for:
- Individuals and families
- Corporate teams
- Civic groups
- Churches
- Community organizations
- Sports teams, and more!
For volunteer information please connect with your local YMCA of Greensboro branch. See the list below for direct contact information. For sponsorships, please email Stevra Gonzalez at [email protected].
Bryan Family YMCA: Amy Overton, [email protected]
Eden Family YMCA: Jeremy Tesh, [email protected]
Hayes-Taylor Memorial YMCA: Dareus Graham, [email protected]
Spears Family YMCA: Nick Zamboni, [email protected]
Ragsdale Family YMCA: Shayna Wesselink, [email protected]
Reidsville Family YMCA: Heather Whitsett, [email protected]