February is all about hearts. It’s when we recognize American Heart Month and — more famously — it’s when Cupid shoots his arrows to bring together friends, families, and soulmates in the celebration of love for Valentine’s Day. Bring on the candy hearts!
At the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, we’re certainly feeling the love in 2023.
Across the association, our Y centers and programs have been the recipient of federal Community Projects Funding from several members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation, including Naperville’s own Congresswoman Lauren Underwood. As part of the 2023 budget, Congresswoman Underwood secured significant funding for the YMCA’s Safe ‘n Sound program to support the enhancement of programming in Naperville and surrounding communities. The enhancement will support area youth in kindergarten through fifth grade with “academic and personal development, focusing on experiential learning, social and emotional development, and the promotion of healthy living.”
On behalf of the Y’s Safe ‘n Sound program, we’re sending a huge, heart-shaped “thank you!” to you, Congresswoman Underwood, for your support and advocacy on behalf of the Y and the communities we serve. Your support and leadership empower us to continue providing educational and enriching opportunities that will inspire our next generation of leaders!
Also happening soon and in line with (if a little bit after) Heart Month is the Naperville St. Paddy’s Day 5K run/walk! The YMCA Safe ‘n Sound program and Fry Family YMCA are longtime partners of the host organization, Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrise Foundation, and are honored to be among the 2023 Award Recipients for the run and to be a part of the celebration again this year!
If you’re not familiar with the run, it’s one of the largest 5K events in the Chicago area, with more than 2,000 runners and several hundred volunteers annually. In addition to the fun run, they have an even-more-fun costume contest! Sign up ASAP for the March 11 run to get your heart rate up and support the Y, the Rotary, and the community!
