How the YMCA is responding to COVID-19

How can your organization continue to engage the community, even when you have to close your doors?

That was the mission for the YMCA as the coronavirus pandemic swept across America, forcing almost all of its locations to close to the public.  The Y was able to reach out to its community stakeholders with a campaign it calls “Stay with Us,” bringing some of the community services the organization was known for to virtual platforms.

The change in tactics, and strategic pivot, offer takeaways for all kinds of organizations that are struggling to serve their audience during this crisis.

Here’s what Valerie Barker Waller, chief marketing officer and senior vice president for Y-USA, had to say about the campaign.

Ragan: What are the goals of your campaign? What challenges do you hope to address?

Waller: As one of the country’s most storied nonprofits with a 170-year history in the U.S., the goal of our “Stay With Us,” campaign is to call on the public to continue supporting the Y.

During this time of crisis, hundreds of Ys across the country are continuing to offer our most important services to the community such childcare, shelter, meals for kids in need and outreach to seniors who are the most vulnerable.