Tampa Bay Sports Powerhouses and the YMCA Team Up to Expand Community Impact
Tampa Bay's sports powerhouses are making an impact far beyond the field, rink and stadium.
The Tampa Bay Lightning and Benchmark International recently joined the Y for Strikes of Kindness Day! Benchmark and Lightning employees volunteered with Tampa Y staff to pack fresh fruits and vegetables for the YMCA’s Veggie Van, which distributes fresh, nutritious produce twice each month to residents in 11 local communities identified as food deserts. By delivering nutritious fruits and vegetables directly into neighborhoods, the program supports healthier lifestyles and while helping address food insecurity across Tampa Bay.
“We are committed to our three pillars, which are education, health and wellness, and food insecurity. The mission of the Tampa Y aligns with all of those,“ said Patti-Ann Dresback, Activation Director at Benchmark International.
"This a really rewarding experience for us, and we're happy to be here," added Jordan Mckenzie, who oversees Community and Hockey Development.
The Strikes of Kindness initiative also awarded a $25,000 grant to expand access to YMCA programs. Access to the Y can often be life-changing, and this grant will help make those opportunities available to more individuals and families across Tampa Bay through financial assistance. YMCA scholarships help individuals and families access memberships, youth programs, health and wellness opportunities and other resources, reinforcing the YMCA’s commitment to removing barriers to participation.
Like the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Tampa Bay Rays have also stepped up to support the Y's mission through volunteering. Staff from the Tampa Bay Rays recently volunteered at YMCA Camp Cristina, helping paint the camp’s fencing. Their work enhanced the space where young people build confidence, develop new skills and connect with nature through Camp Cristina’s horseback riding program.
Whether providing financial assistance to families, addressing food insecurity or enhancing camp experiences for children, support from community-minded organizations allows the Y to reach more people and meet evolving community needs. We are grateful to the Tampa Bay Lightning, Benchmark International and the Tampa Bay Rays for helping strengthen our community and create opportunities for the families we serve.
Learn how you can volunteer with the Y and make an impact: Volunteer at the Tampa Y.