PHOTOS: MEGATHON participants sweat for a good cause to help Northern BC YMCA

Doing a workout this weekend at the YMCA in Prince George had participants feeling a little differently heading into the gym.

Today was the organization's MEGATHON, which helps raise money for the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign. The campaign allows one in five children and families to receive financial assistance to participate in YMCA camps and programs, including YMCA Camp Kanannaq and Aurora Leadership and YMCA Beyond the Bell.

Last year, the YMCA set a goal of $10,000 and raised close to $12,000 for the program. This year, they set a goal of $15,000 for the annual event.

Spokesperson Stephanie Deol says the YMCA subsidizes close to $300,000 in memberships and programs each year.

The Strong Kids initiative ensures Prince George children and families who are struggling financially have access to YMCA programs and services in the community.

The YMCA of Northern BC has set a goal of $60,000 by Aug. 30, 2020, to help children and youth participate in camps and programs.

They're also looking to raise an additional $85,000 to fund another year of Beyond the Bell, which is an academic achievement program at Glenview Elementary for low-income, vulnerable children.

The current funding for the project is scheduled to end in June of this year.