By North Andover Life Staff
The Merrimack Valley YMCA hosted its 35th annual auction gala on Friday, September 25, bringing together 330 supporters and friends while raising more than $210,000 to fund youth development programs.
“The Y Auction has become an annual event for us and some of our friends,” said Amy McLeod of North Andover. “It’s a great opportunity to give back to an organization that provides so much for our community.”
The gala supports youth development programs in Lawrence, Methuen, Andover, North Andover, and three summer camps in New Hampshire. The YMCA serves more than 700 children daily in its childcare and after-school programs, provides teen leadership and educational enrichment opportunities, teaches hundreds of children to swim, and offers summer camp experiences. Scholarships and financial assistance help make YMCA memberships and programs accessible to all.
For North Andover residents, the YMCA’s impact can be seen at its Andover/North Andover branch on Haverhill Street, where preschool and after-school programs serve approximately 150 children daily. The nearly 100,000-square-foot facility also offers youth sports, swimming lessons, teen activities, and health and wellness programs for residents of all ages. Among its offerings are an Active Living Center for older adults, adaptive programs for individuals of varying abilities, and specialized wellness programs for people living with Parkinson’s disease and cancer survivors.
“The Merrimack Valley YMCA’s mission inspires me because it turns possibility into opportunity, hardship into hope, and helps create a brighter future for young people, families, and communities that deserve every chance to thrive,” said Fatima Delgado, a resident of North Andover and member of the YMCA’s Board of Directors.
Justin Aguirre, executive producer and co-host of Billy and Lisa in the Morning on KISS 108, served as emcee and auctioneer at the event, held at Andover Country Club. In addition to live and silent auctions, guests enjoyed live string music performed by young musicians from the Northeast Massachusetts Youth Orchestras.
“We are proud to be a part of the Andover/North Andover communities and serve more than 14,000 members in our facilities and programs. Our goal is not only to make health and wellness accessible to all, but for the community to see the Y as their third place – a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for families to come together, grow and thrive. Events like our annual gala help us continue to work toward this important mission,” said Merrimack Valley YMCA CEO and President Francis J. Kenneally III, a resident of North Andover.
