‘I Wanted to Demonstrate to My Daughters the Importance of Giving Back’

With summer approaching, Mary Ann Wright asked herself the question many working mothers have asked at one time or another, What am I going to do with these kids?

That question led Mary Ann to the summer program at her local YMCA in Richmond, Virginia. That was over 30 years ago. She has been a member, supporter and advocate for the YMCA ever since.

Mary Ann’s daughters loved summers at the Y and Mary Ann enjoyed exercise classes with her friends. Years later, her mom benefited greatly from a Y program established for Parkinson’s patients.

“I am blown away at how the Y impacts so many different people—all ages and stages of life,” said Mary Ann. “There is a real commitment to promoting a healthy spirit, mind and body. It makes you very proud to be part of something that makes such a positive impact in the community.”

With a BA in Elementary Education from William & Mary, a Ph.D. in Urban Education and Leadership from VCU, experience as a YMCA board member and a lifelong volunteer, Mary Ann speaks from experience when she talks about impacting the community.

And recently, she made the extraordinary choice to include the YMCA OF GREATER RICHMOND in her estate plans. “I wanted to demonstrate to my daughters the importance of giving back to causes that matter,” she says. “If you have a passion for making a difference in your community, the YMCA is a place to consider.”.

You Can Make a Difference

If you would like to learn how you can join Mary Ann in building a healthy spirit, mind and body for all through a gift in your estate plans, contact Shawn Morrison at 804.474.4327 or morrisons@ymcarichmond.org to explore your options.