YMCA of Greenville awarded $5,000 grant from United Bank for RECESS, its program for adults with diverse abilities

Greenville County adults with diverse abilities will benefit from grant support of RECESS programming

YMCA of Greenville, a cause-driven, nonprofit organization focused on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, received a $5,000 grant from United Bank to help serve post-high school adults with diverse abilities through its RECESS program.

RECESS (Recreation, Education, Community, Exercise, Social and Service) is a signature program created by the YMCA of Greenville. During programming, participants learn about nutrition, fitness, social responsibility, community outreach, and independent living skills. RECESS allows adults with diverse abilities not only to have a place to continue to learn new skills, but also gives them a place to make and connect with friends and gain a sense of belonging.

On April 14, leaders from United Bank presented a $5,000 check to the YMCA of Greenville and had the opportunity to see RECESS in action and even participate in some of the activities. Participants take both cooking and fitness classes, learning healthy skills they can take with them after the program. The nutrition training is provided by Clemson University Youth Learning Institute’s SNAP-Ed, a program that teaches principles of healthy living and cooking. The program currently operates from Christian Assembly of God, who provides their facility at no cost to the YMCA of Greenville.

“We are proud to partner with the YMCA of Greenville on such a special program,” said Jim Boyd, United Bank market president – Greenville, SC. “United Bank is committed to providing excellence in service to our communities. RECESS helps this often-overlooked population lead more independent, healthy and happy lives, and for us it was an easy decision to support the cause.”

“The adults in our community who have diverse abilities have needs we can help address, not just from a skills and independence standpoint, but from a social standpoint,” said Julie Hollister, association director of youth & family services, YMCA of Greenville. “RECESS participants get to join their peers and feel a sense of community through our programming, and it’s amazing to see that in action. We are so thankful to United Bank for their generous contribution that will help us keep this program running.”

About the YMCA of Greenville SC

The YMCA of Greenville is a cause-driven non-profit organization. Our mission is, following the example of Christ, to build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. With a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y nurtures the potential of every youth and teen, improves the health and well-being of our community and provides opportunities to give back and help support our neighbors. Founded in 1876, the Y serves more than 70,000 people annually through programs that include afterschool care, resident and day Camps, aquatics, youth and adult sports, and health and wellness. Programs are offered through four family branches, as well as the Verdae YMCA, Y Camp Greenville, Judson Community Center, the YMCA Program Center and Hollingsworth Outdoor Center. The Y is also home to Y Teen Services and the SC Youth in Government program.

For more information about the YMCA of Greenville, visit ymcagreenville.org, or call (864) 412-0288.