Augusta, GA
YMCA of Greater Augusta launches annual campaign next week
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The YMCA of Greater Augusta will launch its 2026 Annual Fundraising Campaign next week with a luncheon.
The kickoff and prayer luncheon will be on Feb. 10, starting at 11:30 a.m. at the Columbia County Exhibition Hall, 212 Partnership Drive.
The event aims to bring together faith leaders, community partners and supporters to raise $1.7 million in support of financial assistance and outreach programs in the CSRA.
Ten pastors from across the CSRA will each lead a focused prayer over specific areas of the YMCA’s mission.
“This campaign is about far more than meeting a financial goal, it’s about showing up for our community and shining a light where it’s needed most” said Catie McCauley, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Augusta.
“Every dollar raised helps ensure that we can meet families where they are, ensuring children sleep in safe beds, families have access to nutritious meals, kids learn life-saving water safety skills, and individuals of all abilities and backgrounds have the opportunity to thrive.”
The 2026 annual campaign will also feature a Game Show–themed celebration.
Each year, the Family YMCA provides more than $2 million in financial assistance to children, families, seniors and individuals across the CSRA.
Funds raised through the Annual Campaign support the YMCA’s financial assistance program and essential outreach initiatives, including:
- A Place to Dream
- Cheryl’s Kitchen Food Program
- Safety Around Water
- Camp I.V.E.Y.
- LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA
In 2025, the YMCA of Greater Augusta raised $1,643,954 through its annual campaign.
Community members who wish to support the 2026 Annual Campaign can make a donation online at thefamilyy.org/donate or by calling 706-922-9130.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Families had the chance to sharpen their money skills at a financial literacy event hosted by local nonprofit Crown Her Mentoring at the Bernie Ward Community Center.
The free event offered resources for all ages, from kids learning the basics to adults planning for their financial future.
Attendees could sit in sessions about budgeting, credit, opening banking accounts and insurance options.
Organizers said the event was designed to make financial education accessible during Financial Literacy Month.
“People need to understand the importance of a checking account, a savings account—how to manage your money. How to invest your money. People need to learn about life insurance,” said Torrecka Davis, organizer.
Crown Her Mentoring will host a mental health awareness event on May 23. Open enrollment for new mentees will begin on May 10.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Shoppers in Augusta will soon lose a longtime retail option, as Lane Bryant’s store inside Augusta Mall is set to close for good this weekend.
Employees at Lane Bryant inside Augusta Mall confirmed that the store will permanently close starting Sunday, April 19.
After the closure, the nearest Lane Bryant location for customers will be in Lexington.
Copyright 2026 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
With deepest and heartfelt sympathy, G. L. Brightharp & Sons announces the transition of Mr. Willie J. Tanksley who entered into rest April 18, 2026.
Mr. Tanksley, a native of Richmond County, was a 1985 graduate of the Academy of Richmond County. He was a member of Greater Young Zion Baptist Church where he served in the Brotherhood Ministry.
Survivors include his wife, Sabrina Tanksley; two daughters, Ashley Tanksley and Taylor Tanksley; siblings, Elise Tanksley of Augusta, GA, Wilhelmina Roland of Atlanta, GA, Terry Tanksley, Tommy Tanksley, Watler Tanksley and Elder Claude (Kimberly) Tanksley all of Augusta, GA; an aunt, Frances Tate; an uncle, James Tanksley; mother-in-law, Sandra Harrison of Beech Island, SC; father-in-law, Jimmy (Elnora) Bing; three sisters-in-law, Fonda Rainey, Nicole Harrison and Nina Bing; a brother-in-law, Eric Bing; a host of nieces , nephews, along with other loving relatives and friends.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at Greater Young Zion Baptist Church with the Rev. William A. Blount officiating. Interment will follow at Walker Memorial Park. Viewing will be held from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM Monday at the funeral home.
The family will not be receiving visitors at the home. We ask that you continue to pray for them during this time.
Professional Services are under the compassionate care of G. L. Brightharp & Sons Mortuary-North Augusta.
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