KNOXVILLE, Tenn., July 9, 2019 — The SunTrust Foundation announced today a $275,000 grant to the YMCA of East Tennessee to expand its youth development programs that focus on financial wellness, academics, leadership and well-being. On behalf of the SunTrust Foundation, Harry Gross, SunTrust Bank Knoxville market president, presented Jim Dickson, CEO of YMCA of East Tennessee, with the grant at a special event Tuesday, July 9, at West Side Family YMCA in Knoxville.
“The Y is more than a place to work out; we’re a place of impact in our community,” said Dickson. “The support from the SunTrust Foundation will help expand much-needed initiatives around health and wellness to the community we serve and also open the door to teach basic financial wellness principles to YMCA youth and teens.”
The Y offers a variety of youth-centered programs, including summer day camp, after-school activities and mentorship programs. Currently, the Y is offering reduced fees to more than 25% of its summer day camp participants, so kids from all socioeconomic backgrounds have the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Additionally, more than 6,000 teens have received mentorship and leadership skills through programs like Y Leaders Clubs, Teen Trekkers and Youth in Government.
“Partnering with the YMCA of East Tennessee is another way the SunTrust Foundation and SunTrust Bank are helping others achieve financial confidence,” said Gross. “While this grant will support many youth development programs, its focus on teaching teens about saving money, budgeting and planning for the future will help bridge the gap from adolescence to adulthood.”