IMPACT IN ACTION:
CELEBRATING PROGRESS, INNOVATION & COMMUNITY CHANGE YMCA
A MESSAGE FROM OUR CHIEF PROGRAM OFFICER
Dear YMCA Community,
As we look back on the progress we ’ ve made together in the first quarter of this year, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support and dedication. The success of our programs and initiatives during this time is a testament to the passion and commitment of our staff, volunteers, and community partners. In this inaugural Impact Report Newsletter, we highlight our achievements and the impact we ' ve had on the lives of those we serve. Our focus on impact is not just about measuring numbers; it’s about understanding the lives we touch and the positive changes we facilitate. Each achievement reflects our collective efforts to empower youth, strengthen families, and create inclusive environments where everyone can thrive.
However, we also acknowledge the challenges that persist in our community. Together, we can address these challenges head-on and continue to make a difference. I invite you to join us in this journey whether by volunteering your time, sharing our mission with others, or contributing to our programs.
Together, we can build a brighter future for all members of the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth community. Thank you for being a vital part of our mission.
With gratitude, Holli Winn
REFLECTING ON THE FIRST QUARTER
Impact isn’t just measured in numbers—it’s felt in the lives we transform, the opportunities we create, and the communities we uplift. Every dollar invested, every project launched, and every meal served is a step toward building a stronger, more inclusive future.
At the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth, our mission is more than words—it’s a promise to strengthen community, empower youth, and expand opportunities for all. Whether it’s providing a safe space for children to learn and grow, supporting families in need, or launching programs that promote equity, health, and sustainability, every initiative we undertake is driven by our commitment to serve and uplift Fort Worth and beyond.
Welcome to our inaugural Impact Report Newsletter! This is more than an update—it’s a testament to the power of strategic giving, bold action, and unwavering commitment. Thanks to your generosity, dedication, and partnership, we are making real strides in nurturing potential, fostering inclusivity, and investing in the next generation of leaders.
This report highlights key projects, celebrates milestones, and reinforces our commitment to transparency and meaningful change. As we reflect on the past quarter, I am thrilled to share the progress we ’ ve made through strategic funding, community collaboration, and missiondriven initiatives.
Together, we are shaping a brighter, more connected future. With your continued support, we will keep expanding opportunities, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that the Y remains a beacon of hope, belonging, and impact
MAKING WAVES: NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS WITH IMPACT FUNDING TEAM
Priority & Achievements
Measuring impact is the priority for the Impact Department at the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth, requiring immediate and focused efforts. Effective measurement ensures we deliver meaningful results that uplift our community and foster positive change. Our approach emphasizes maximizing secured funding, assessing participant engagement and diversity, strengthening community partnerships, promoting equity and inclusion, and evaluating long-term outcomes. This report highlights our progress, challenges, and opportunities in creating lasting change and empowering individuals for a brighter future.
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PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS
Where do you go from here? Sustainability reports are not just about looking back but also looking forward.
This SDG Progress Report is a continuous work in progress - a way for your organization to track its impact and improvements over time. This section is just a summary of your strategy for continuing the excellent work done so far.
Strengthen Data Collection and Monitoring
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Through our Food for Good program, we continue to provide nutritious meals to children in need, ensuring access to healthy, balanced food options. This initiative, in partnership with Cooks Children THR, plays a critical role in combating food insecurity and promoting child wellness across our communities. Every meal served is a step toward building a healthier future for our youth, and we are grateful to our partners and volunteers who make this work possible.
4ALL Studios – $50,000 Grant Awarded
A huge congratulations to 4ALL Studios for securing a $50,000 grant! This funding will be instrumental in expanding programming, increasing access to creative education, and providing resources for youth. Our investment in this initiative underscores our commitment to fostering innovation, creativity, and educational empowerment. Culinary Food Program – Teen Nights at McDonald's
Our Culinary Food Program, in collaboration with McDonald's Teen Nights and the Achievers Program, is providing teens with hands-on culinary experiences. By engaging youth in cooking classes and nutrition education, we are equipping them with essential life skills, promoting healthy eating habits, and fostering an environment where they can thrive personally and professionally.
Youth & Government – A Historic Win!
We are incredibly proud to celebrate the outstanding achievement of our Youth & Government Middle School team, who secured the Governor’s seat! This milestone is a testament to the dedication, leadership, and civic engagement of these young changemakers. Their success highlights the power of youth advocacy and reaffirms our commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders.
LOOKING AHEAD
As we reflect on our journey and plan for the future, here are the key highlights from our inaugural Impact Report Newsletter:
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
Secured significant funding to enhance youth programs and community initiatives.
Expanded access to programs, reaching diverse populations and ensuring inclusivity.
Strengthened partnerships with local organizations, amplifying our collective impact.
PERSISTENT CHALLENGES
Addressing the ongoing need for resources to support expanding program demands.
Ensuring consistent engagement from underserved communities to fully benefit from our initiatives. Navigating the complexities of maintaining partnerships while adapting to changing community needs.
CALL TO ACTION
Join us in our mission by supporting our programs through donations, volunteer opportunities, or partnerships. Share our initiatives with your network to help raise awareness and inspire others to get involved. Stay connected with us for updates on our progress and future opportunities to make an impact together.
Together, we can continue to drive meaningful change and empower individuals for a brighter future in the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth community!
MEASURING PROGRESS
At the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth, progress isn’t just about the work we do— it’s about the lives we change and the communities we strengthen. Measuring our impact allows us to track growth, refine our strategies, and ensure transparency in how we serve those who depend on us.
Funding Secured
Tracking the percentage of funding allocated to direct program support versus operational costs.
Assessing year-over-year growth in grants, donations, and sponsorships.
Program Reach & Participation
Collecting demographic data to ensure we are reaching diverse and underserved populations. Monitoring participant feedback and satisfaction surveys to refine program effectiveness.
Sustainability & Long-Term Change
Measuring the long-term impact of participants who complete our programs (e.g., employment rates, academic success, or community involvement).
Assessing the environmental sustainability of our initiatives, including resource efficiency and waste reduction.
Measuring donor retention and engagement to ensure long-term financial sustainability.
Tracking engagement trends to expand highimpact programs and adjust underutilized ones.
Evaluating policy advocacy efforts and systemic changes influenced by our work.
As the Impact Funding Specialist, I have had the opportunity to engage with multiple branches over the past seven months, learning about their unique needs and contributions. My role has focused on strengthening compliance, securing funding, and measuring impact to ensure our programs drive meaningful change. I look forward to continuing these collaborations and enhancing impact measurement across the association.
Thank you to everyone who has supported and contributed to this work—I appreciate your dedication and partnership. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions or need any support.
Dorcas Bisisi Impact Funding Specialist