NORWICH – In the midst of the Christmas season, the Norwich Family YMCA is reaching out to locals to lend a helping hand during its annual support campaign.

Having allocated more through scholarships in the past year than was brought in during the 2013 campaign, YMCA Executive Director Jamey Mullen said this year’s campaign goal is simply to raise one more dollar than last year. He explained that contributions help the organization continue scholarship programs which include youth sports, senior membership, child membership, swimming lessons, activities at the YMCA Camp Thompson, and childcare for working families.

“Often times, people join the YMCA for a reason but don’t realize that the Y is more than a facility,” said Mullen. “We strive to provide a variety of programs to members from a broad spectrum of backgrounds.”

In 2013, more than 700 members benefited from scholarships. The Norwich Y allocated more than $65,000 in membership and program assistance, and another $25,000 in contributed facility support. However, only $46,000 was raised through the annual campaign, forcing the organization to absorb remaining costs through its operating budget.

“We want to be a community organization that comes to the table with concerns and opportunities to help others,” Mullen said. “There are many worthwhile not for profits in the area that provide excellent services for our community, and we feel we're in that category.”