This year the race will benefit the YMCA of Austin, a nonprofit organization that includes eight local branches in Travis and Hays counties. Your support of the IBM Uptown Classic will help us deliver the innovative MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do It!) program at no cost to families that need it most in underserved communities across Travis and Hays Counties. Nearly one-third of American children are overweight or obese, and two thirds of children and teens do not exercise enough*. As a community leader in Health & Wellness, the YMCA of Austin is taking an aggressive stance in combating childhood obesity through the family-oriented MEND program. By teaching kids and parents how to lead active, healthy lifestyles together, MEND gives families the tools they need to make good decisions. Through the IBM Uptown Classic, you’re helping the YMCA fulfill its promise to make health & wellness, youth development and family enrichment programs accessible to everyone in the Austin community.

*according to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation