At the Boothbay Region YMCA, we see acts of kindness every day. But some gestures reach so deeply into the fabric of our community that they take our breath away. The recent support the Y received through St. Columba’s Episcopal Church, thanks to the Marjorie M. Winslow bequest, is one of those moments.

This gift is more than just funding. It is an example of reaching out from within – the Vestry at St. Columba’s, inspired by Marjorie Winslow’s lifelong generosity, chose to lift up neighbors in ways that honor her spirit of caring for others.

Part of this gift supports the YMCA’s Grab’n Go Fridge, which is stocked daily with healthy snacks like fruit, granola bars, and cheese sticks. The fridge is located right in the Y’s lobby, making it easy for anyone – members finishing a workout, a parent picking up a child, teens stopping by, or community visitors coming in to check the schedule – to eat something nourishing at no cost.

It’s a simple way to make sure no one leaves the Y hungry, and that everyone, regardless of their situation, knows that they are welcome. The purchase of healthy snacks is also underwritten by the Bosarge Family Foundation and The First. Generous support from these three groups this reflects the best of our community: people helping people, with dignity and kindness at the forefront.

Another portion of the St. Columba’s distribution provides much needed scholarships for Camp Knickerbocker, the Y’s beloved summer camp on Barter’s Island Road. At Camp K, children spend their days exploring the woods and waterfront on Little Lake Knickerbocker, learning to swim, paddling canoes, and trying new activities from archer to arts and crafts.

Camp K is so much more than its setting or activities. It’s a place where children build friendships that last far beyond the summer, where shy kids can find their voices during all-camp gatherings at the flagpole, and where every child learns they are valued, included, and capable. Each morning begins with laughter and anticipation, and each afternoon ends with tired smiles and stories shared with family on the ride home.

Because of this generous support, along with many other donors to the Camp K Fund, every family who requests financial aid will receive it. That means that our community’s children will experience the magic of Camp K – a place that nurtures confidence, independence, and lifelong memories, no matter their family’s financial circumstances.

Finally, the YMCA’s unique Y-Arts program received support through this special gift. Y-Arts isn’t just about singing, dancing, and performing – it’s about helping kids find their voices, build confidence, and connect with others in meaningful ways. When youth step onto the stage or into rehearsal, they discover courage within themselves and learn they are part of something bigger. The gift will enable the Y-Arts program the opportunity to purchase costumes, bring students on educational field trips, and underwrite travel to the annual junior theater festival.

Marjorie Winslow believed in giving back. Her life was filled with quiet generosity and devotion to her community. That legacy lives on through St. Columba’s Episcopal Church, whose Vestry chose to distribute her gift throughout the community in ways that will continue to uplift lives for years to come.

“We are deeply grateful,” said Boothbay Region YMCA CEO, Andy Hamblett. “This gift reminds us that when we reach out from within our hearts, we create ripples of hope, health, and possibility for everyone around us.”

Supporting impactful programs at the Boothbay Region YMCA spreads out to everyone in the community. St. Columba’s Episcopal Church, its Vestry, and the Winslow family understood that the Y is a community hub for everyone. This thoughtful group compassion strengthens all of us and helps ensure that everyone – no matter their age or circumstance – feels welcomed, supported, connected, and inspired.