GREATER KINGSPORT FAMILY YMCA
"STRENGHENING OUR COMMUNITY"
2007 CAPITAL CAMPAIGN

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Who will be the primary users of the new facility?
A: By collaborating with Wellmont Health System the YMCA has a strong interest in health enhancement programs. The primary users of the new facility will be families and individuals of all ages and socio-economic levels seeking to build healthy spirit, mind, and body.

Q: Isn't this a lot of money to spend just for recreation and fitness purposes?
A: The underlying principles of the YMCA involve a great deal more than fun and fitness.

The YMCA programs become an integral part of the leisure time of people of all ages. Spend an hour in a YMCA lobby and you will be amazed at the volume and wide age range of participants. Through a variety of activities the YMCA develops qualities that make for good citizenship. Four specific values in an asset-building program are emphasized: caring, respect, honesty and responsibility.

Q: Why should the citizens of our area give to the YMCA Capital Campaign?
A: The Capital Campaign is an excellent opportunity for our citizens to express their concerns for the health of children, families and the entire area. The YMCA Capital Campaign can make a very positive impact upon the quality of life here. This campaign will enable the YMCA staff and volunteers to better serve people for at least seven more decades.

Q: Members of the YMCA pay for what they get. Why should I be interested?
A: A very large part of the program of the YMCA is for the youth and families of our area who cannot afford to pay full costs.

The YMCA builds strong kids, strong families, and strong communities. We should all support that positive force for good.

Fees and charges are based on the ability of members to pay.

Q: Should industry be expected to contribute substantially to the YMCA Capital Campaign?
A: The YMCA serves industry's employees as well as its clients and customers. Industry tends to be attracted and to support those communities, which by their alertness and sense of responsibility, provide good youth and community facilities.

The YMCA is high on the priority list of most industries investigating expansion and original plant locations. Our new building will help attract more employers and employees to our area. Such amenities will help retain our young people, too.

Q: We pledged to the Spirit Campaign and we are still paying on it. Where is that money going now?
A: The Spirit Campaign pledges were distributed by formula to the various projects. The YMCA will get about $3.8 million from that effort. We need to have several million dollars more to build the facility we need.

Q: Are people who contributed to the Spirit Campaign being asked again?
A: Yes. Their Spirit Campaign gifts will be included in their recognition for any additional pledges for this project.

Q: Are payments to the fund deductible from income tax?
A: Yes, contributions are deductible.

The YMCA is a registered charitable organization under the regulation of the Internal Revenue Service Department, Section 501 (c) (3) Internal Revenue Code of 1954. The "Strengthening Our Community" Capital Campaign is registered with the State of Tennessee, Bureau of Charitable Organizations.

The gift has the effect of reducing one's taxable income, and consequently, reducing the amount of IRS taxes.

Q: Is the YMCA truly a charity? I've never thought of it like that.
A: All YMCA programs---including its adult fitness programs--are part of its historical, charitable purpose and are tax exempt because they benefit the community. In Tennessee, the State Legislature has determined in T.C.A. Section 67-5-225, that a "family wellness center" that is owned by a non-profit is exempt from property taxes. The Board of Equalization and the Chancery Court determined that legislation to be constitutional and that the YMCA facilities meet the definition of "family wellness center."

This year the Kingsport YMCA will have provided over $200,000 in financial assistance for people who could not afford to pay the full membership or program fees. No person is denied participation in a program because of an inability to pay the fees, thanks to supporters of the annual "Strong Kids" Campaign.

Q: Does the YMCA meet the recognized standards of a non-profit philanthropic organization?
A: Yes, the Board of Directors feels a high degree of responsibility because of the element of trusteeship involved, both to its members and to the community at large.

There are efficient programs guided by volunteers and professional staff. The capital campaign will provide increased programs and services in the Greater Kingsport area.
Serving on the Board of Directors are leading area citizens.

Q: Why do you say, "It is good business to invest in the YMCA?"
A: Character has a financial value. We cannot have a satisfactory business environment where institutions such as the YMCA are not up to maximum performance. This is just plain good business.

Q: I don't live in Kingsport, so why should I donate?
A: This campaign is for all who work, live, or recreate in Kingsport or have friends or family who do.

Q: Are gifts other than cash acceptable?
A: Yes - stocks, bonds, property - all are acceptable. Planned gifts such as charitable gift annuity programs are also good options.

Q: Is all cash required on subscriptions to this fund?
A: We are not asking for all cash now. Payment can be made over three to five years, if so desired.

Q: Is this a door-to-door campaign?
A: No. Campaigners choose their own prospect cards - persons they know. They are expected to visit face-to-face with each donor prospect. However, anyone who would like to support the YMCA is encouraged to do so and may contact Charles Glass, CEO of the YMCA.