Help Create a Memorable Back-to-School Experience
Bright Beginnings is more than a school supply drive. It’s a confidence-building experience that helps local children start the school year feeling prepared, included and proud.
Through Bright Beginnings shopping activities, children receive the opportunity to shop for new school clothes, shoes, backpacks and essentials alongside caring YMCA volunteers. Instead of simply receiving items, children get to choose what they need most, helping them walk into the new school year with dignity, excitement and self-confidence.
Because every child deserves to feel ready on the first day of school.
How Bright Beginnings Works
Our program is supported by three important initatives:
- July Membership Promotion, the join fee supports this program
- Sponsorships and donations to YMCA branch Bright Beginnings programs, as well as school supply drives at select branches
- Volunteers at YMCA branches to support Bright Beginnings activities
Our YMCA of Greensboro branches work with schools, nonprofit organizations, and search within our YMCA youth 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 to impact the lives of families in our shared community. This year, we are determined to help 400 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]