The Tyrone YMCA Board of Directors received an unpleasant surprise in July when it was noted that years of local, state and federal taxes were not paid by the organization’s accountant.
As a result, the YMCA owed a hefty sum of money, and it asked the community for help.
According to Amy Hampton, executive director of the YMCA, the situation was brought to light in July when YMCA accountant John Ramsey met with Hampton to welcome her as the new executive director.
She learned that while the withholding tax for the approximate 40 employees was paid, the additional share owed by the organization was never paid. This amounted to nine quarters worth of taxes equaling nearly $45,400 in federal liabilities and about $15,000 in state liabilities. Throw in the interest and penalty amounts and this debt reached well above $60,000.
After learning of the situation, Hampton said she checked the 2000 report and spoke with the bookkeeper.
“I was told that there was a decision made not to pay the full amount since the Y did not have the money,” said Hampton.
She said she was not aware who made that decision.
“I’m not sure if it was mismanagement or outright deceit,” she said. “Somewhere along the way, someone had the idea that just because you are a non-profit, then you don’t have to operate like a business. I don’t know what decisions were made and by whom, but I know that poor decisions were made.”
So soon after the board learned of the debt, they began brainstorming for ideas that would pull the community-centered organization back into the black.
After a series of public meetings, pleas to the community and attending municipal meetings, the board received its first donation with a $1,000 check from community resident Dan Meckes.
“I am not a rich man, but I am rich in memories of what the Tyrone YMCA did for me and this town and it’s time I give back,” said Meckes, when the check was presented in August. “I want to provide this seed money in the hope it will attract the attention and contribution of the entire community.
“I hope this small contribution, compared to what some in the town could give, will ignite an awareness so that others will pick up the banner and follow my meager example.”
And follow they did.
Soon, other checks began rolling into the organization. Past board members began contacting state and local officials to see if they could help out. Fundraising campaigns also swallowed a good number of volunteer hours.
“To date, we’ve raised close to $35,000 through fundraising and from private donations,” said Hampton. “And it all started with Dan Meckes’ check. We’ve been receiving donations pretty much since that time and they have ranged anywhere between $14 and $5,000.”
So where does this leave the YMCA?
According to Hampton, about $20,000 short.
“Now that’s a rough estimate,” she said. “But, it’s close.”
According to Hampton, the YMCA, its board of directors and its volunteers continue to propose ideas for ways to continue having money roll in, most of which will be used to alleviate the debt.
“It’s been wonderful,” she said. “The community has definitely shown they’re willing to support what we’ve been doing. We’re obviously moving in the right direction. The support has been wonderful.
“I think the community realizes that the YMCA is a vital part of the community and they’re showing they want it to be around. We’re definitely going to do our part to make sure the doors stay open and continue to operate in a positive manner.”
Anyone who wished to make a donation or volunteer their time, is asked to contact 684-2740.
