In 2012, Ytoss diverted approximately 13 tons of reusable material from the local landfill, helping VT achieve an overall 44.13% recycling rate. The program collects gently used items students typically “toss” during the move out, including TVs, electronics, microwaves, refrigerators, furniture, clothing, hutches, fans, and more. Non-refrigerated foods, paper products, and laundry detergent are also collected and donated to local food banks. The items collected in May are re-purposed at the Ytoss Sale in August, serving over 1,000 customers annually and providing an affordable option for students with limited resources. The majority of customers are freshmen and international students, who come to campus with few possessions. Based out of 312 Squires Student Center, the YSP provides opportunities for VT students to develop real-world leadership skills through the development and facilitation of community services such as afterschool programs, tutoring, senior programs, and break service-learning trips on weekends and during academic breaks. Founded in 1873, the YMCA at Virginia Tech serves the community through five program sites: Student Programs on VT’s Campus, the Y-Center on N. Main Street where we offer our Community Classes, International Programs, and Pottery Studio; the Y Thrift Shops in Blacksburg and Radford; the Hale Y Community Gardens; and the Waldron Family Y and Community Center in Shawsville, VA. Over 1,200 volunteers annually provide more than 20,000 hours to our diverse programs. The YMCA’s focus on learning, leadership and service reaches out to community members from all walks of life, while developing new leaders who work to make our community a better place.
