EASLEY — The Easley, Pickens and now Powdersville chapters of the YMCA received a generous donation from Toyota of Easley last week when the car dealership handed over a check for $22,700 to the organization.
Tom Merritt, capital campaign chairman of the Powdersville YMCA, said the donation would go toward building an aquatics center in the new Powdersville YMCA location.
The check, presented by Tommy and Ryan Norris, was part of an annual fundraising campaign by Toyota of Easley where the dealership earmarks $100 for every car sold during the month of May for a local charity. It’s a tradition that dates back at least 25 years.
“This community has been good to us and we feel that it’s important that we give back to the community,” said Tommy Norris. “We hope that this raises community awareness and maybe more businesses will give as well.”
The local chapters of the YMCA have been the recipients of the dealership’s May charity drive several times throughout the years.
“The real winners here are the kids,” Norris said during the presentation last Thursday. “The YMCA is just a fantastic place for the area’s youth. We’re proud to have been even a small part of it.”
In gratitude, a “Thank You” sign was presented by the Summer Camp Kids to the Norrises and there was a small musical presentation that took place in front of the dealership.
“Powdersville is growing,” said Merritt. “Easley and Pickens are great locations but it’s time that we (Powdersville) have our own YMCA. This goes a long way to helping us achieve our goal.
“The YMCA of Easley, Pickens and Powdersville is honored to receive a $22,700 donation from Toyota of Easley,” continued Merritt. “(This creates) a powerful magnet for connecting neighbors with one another.”