YMCA Dump & Run

When: May 5 to May 23, 2008

The University YMCA will soon begin collecting (sorting, and packing) items for this year's Dump & Run! However, we need volunteers! Please email Kasey Umland (kasey [at] universityymca [dot] org) if you are able to volunteer during any of the times listed below.

The collection/drop-off (and volunteer) schedule for spring/summer 2008 is as follows:

MAY 5 – 7 (MON – WED) from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
MAY 8 (THUR) from 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
MAY 9 – 10 (FRI – SAT) from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

MAY 12 - 14 (MON- WED) from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
MAY 15 (THUR) from 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
MAY 16 (FRI) from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

MAY 19 - 21 (MON – WED) from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
MAY 22 (THUR) from 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
MAY 23 (FRI) from 9:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

More information about Dump & Run…..

Q: What exactly IS Dump & Run?

A: The basic concept of Dump and Run is simple: we collect reusable items that students (and folks in the community) would otherwise dispose of during the typical move-out/Spring cleaning period in May. We then sell the collected items at an annual garage sale held in late August (when students come back). This project reduces litter and consumer waste, saves space in landfills, lowers dumping costs for certified housing and apartments, provides inexpensive items for folks to purchase in the fall, and acts as a major fundraiser for the University YMCA. Last year we had 5 semi-truck trailers FULL of stuff – ALL donated to the University Y.

Q: What kind of items will the University YMCA be collecting?

A: It is probably a lot easier to say what we are NOT collecting: individual computer monitors, sleeper sofas, large appliances (stoves, washers, and dryers), non-working electronics, tires, non-working computers or parts, holiday decorations, video and audio cassettes, large exercise equipment, or mattresses. The Habitat for Humanity store downtown Champaign may be able to take your donations of stoves, washers, dryers, sleeper sofas, and exercise equipment. We will only accept clothing that is in nearly new condition. Other than that, we will take just about anything ranging from furniture, working electronics, backpacks, bicycles, school supplies, jewelry, winter clothing, shoes, kitchen appliances, glassware, CDs/records (vinyl!!), books, working computers, artwork, toys, sporting equipment, non-perishable food items, toiletries, lawn and garden items, and other household goods. If you think an item may not be in good enough condition to be resold, give it to us anyway. Hopefully we can find it a home!

Q: How do I learn more about Dump and Run and the University YMCA?

A: For more information about Dump and Run, other special projects, and ways to give to the University YMCA, please contact Becca Guyette, Director of Development, through email or call at 337-1500. For more information about our student programs, please contact Kasey Umland, Program Director, through email or call at 337-1500.

Q: I am interested in volunteering. Can you tell me how?

A: Certainly! We always need volunteers to pull this off and to make the whole operation run smoothly. And when you do volunteer, you get first dibs on the things collected (after only 4 hours of volunteering) - and we get an unbelievable amount of great things donated! Please email Kasey Umland (kasey [at] universityymca [dot] org) if you are able to volunteer during any of the times listed above.