It’s February, the month dedicated to hearts, with Valentine’s Day and National Heart Association month. While we all know that regular exercise and healthy eating leads to a healthier lifestyle and lowering risk factors, helping others in need also warms the heart and makes you feel good about improving the lives of others.
This month our Board of Directors will kick off our Annual Support Campaign to help provide opportunities for children, families, adults and seniors through YMCA membership and programs. These are people who would not otherwise be able to participate due to financial constraints.
At the Y, we believe that nurturing the potential of every child and teen through experiences that help educate, build self-esteem and appreciate diversity leads to confident kids today and contributing engaged adults tomorrow. Through our scholarship program, funded by donations from individuals and businesses in the community, we are able to continue to make these opportunities available regardless of an individual’s ability to pay.
We need your help. In 2013, nearly $400,000 in scholarship assistance was given to more than 1,300 individuals. Through the generosity of or donors, 125 children were able to attend before and after school child care, 86 children attended day camp, 25 children attended preschool and 170 children participated in swim lessons and sports programs. In addition over 1,200 individuals enjoyed membership privileges giving them an opportunity to enjoy recreational activities with their families.
When one of our volunteers asks if you would like to help provide children with positive role models, challenging activities, educational opportunities, and sport and skill development, please say YES. The child or family you are helping could be your neighbor, your child’s classmate, a co-worker or friend. Together we can meet the challenge, help kids realize their potential and contribute to strong futures in our community.