For over 25 years, the UACDC has worked to empower the University Area Community – an area near the University of South Florida – to thrive by providing safe and affordable housing, robust programs, and a range of services designed to uplift individuals and families. The contributions of Patch with a Purpose will directly impact the lives of these individuals and families.
The YMCA Cancer Survivorship and Wellness Program Powered by Moffitt empowers survivors to reclaim their strength, confidence and overall well-being after treatment. This free 12-week specialized program combines safe, research-based exercise with social and emotional support to promote healing and enhance quality of life.
The Tampa YMCA proudly supports our military service members, veterans, and their families through programs and initiatives that foster healing, connection, and strength. Additionally, military members, including Active Duty, Veterans, and Retired Military Staff, have access to discounted memberships.
The Tampa YMCA offers numerous programs to ensure our littlest community members are safe in and around the water. One of our most significant initiatives is our Drowning Prevention Program, which focuses on education, prevention and advocacy by teaching children life-saving water safety skills.
Because of AdventHealth and Patch with a Purpose, the Family Healthcare Foundation was able to connect more than 1,300 Tampa Bay families to affordable, life-changing healthcare coverage. From pediatric appointments to cancer screenings, the Patch with a Purpose grant has helped Tampa Bay families connect to healthcare to save their lives.
Because of AdventHealth and Patch with a Purpose, the Calvary Community Clinic has been able to serve 60 Tampa Bay families (to date) with essential health checkups, chronic disease management and urgent treatments. Calvary Community Clinic anticipates having a greater impact of serving over 200 patients by June 2026 because of the Patch with a Purpose Donation.
The YMCA Cancer Survivorship and Wellness Program Powered by Moffitt includes the Thrivers Club, a pediatric component designed specifically for children and teens who have faced cancer, offering them a joyful, supportive space to regain energy, build friendships and thrive beyond diagnosis.
Operation Strong Families is a community-based initiative designed to strengthen and support local military families. Through this program, the YMCA provides service members, veterans, and their loved ones with opportunities to connect, recharge, and grow together.
By partnering with schools, community organizations and local leaders, the Y continues to make a powerful impact, helping ensure that every child can safely enjoy all water activities.
Check out top photos from the Tampa Bay Lightning's Patch with a Purpose Night
Check out photos from the Tampa Bay Lightning's 2024 Lightning Launch event!
“The Tampa YMCA has been nurturing the potential of our local youth for over a century. This exciting partnership with the Lightning and Vinik Sports Group will help the YMCA to elevate awareness around all of the ways that our organization positively impacts our Tampa Bay community. Furthermore, the ‘Patch with a Purpose’ program will leverage these three respected brands to help improve the overall well-being of our neighbors. We are thrilled to launch this partnership in pursuit of such a meaningful collective purpose.”
-Tampa YMCA President & CEO Matt Mitchell
“At AdventHealth, we’re thankful for the opportunity to partner on the ‘Patch with a Purpose’ program. It’s a privilege to work alongside the Tampa Bay Lightning and the YMCA, both organizations that are deeply connected to children and families and share our commitment to lifting up this community. Together, we hope to make a meaningful difference by supporting programs that focus on health and well-being. We’re honored to play a role in this important initiative.”
-David Ottati, president and CEO of the AdventHealth West Florida Division
