Faced with declining federal funding, YWCA St. Paul is launching its first-ever Punch-a-Thon — a 24-hour, high-energy fundraiser kicking off June 5. The event aims to raise $2 million to sustain housing, economic advancement, and wellness programs for the community.
Instead of hosting a traditional fundraising gala this year, YWCA St. Paul is trading champagne glasses for boxing gloves.
The nonprofit is launching its first-ever 24-hour Punch-a-Thon on June 24, as part of a three-event series aimed at raising $2 million to sustain its housing, economic advancement, and wellness programs amid declining public funding. The live-streamed event will take place from 12 p.m., June 24, to 12 p.m., June 25, at YWCA St. Paul, located at 375 Selby Ave. However, you are welcome to contribute a punch anytime between now and the highlight event.
“We just felt like having a lavish event at a time like this, when people are so uncertain financially, didn’t feel right,” said Ashley Booker, executive director of YWCA St. Paul. “So we asked ourselves: What other ways can we engage the community, spread awareness, and raise funds in a way that aligns with the work we do?”
The idea came from Dalton Outlaw, CEO of Element Boxing Gym, a YWCA partner co-located in the same building, who proposed a punch-driven fundraiser. From there, the idea evolved into a high-energy community challenge.
Each punch equals $1, with a goal of $500,000 from this particular event. Participants are encouraged to register individually or in teams. Walk-ins are welcome during the 24-hour event, or individuals can punch from home, post a video, and tag the organization on social media.
The broader three-event series — “What Moves You?” — challenge series will continue throughout the summer, with a walk-a-thon in July during Rondo Days and a dance-a-thon in September.
“This is not just a fundraiser,” Booker said. “This is a movement. We’re trying to punch through barriers — literally — and create opportunities.”
Funds will support:
- safe, stable housing for over 260 individuals and families
- job readiness training for more than 400 participants annually
- scholarships for Health & Fitness Center memberships
- youth leadership programs for young women of color exiting foster care
- financial education, wellness services, and life skills development
Booker said the campaign is urgent, as nearly one-third of the organization’s budget depends on federal funding — a stream that’s now uncertain.
“Our concern is that if those funds go away, we’re going to have 260 people who are suddenly unhoused,” she said. “We’re trying to get ahead of the curve so we’re not completely dependent on public dollars.”
To add to the excitement, the 24-hour Punch-a-Thon will feature local DJs, musical artists, and guest appearances from community organizations such as Hallie Q. Brown and Walker West. Booker said the aim is to uplift not only YWCA’s work, but that of other nonprofits serving St. Paul neighborhoods.
“We all need support right now,” she said. “Even if people decide to give to another organization — that’s still a win.”
To participate, donate, or learn more, visit www.ywcastpaul.org/challenge.
Jasmine McBride welcomes reader responses at jmcbride@spokesman-recorder.com.