Partners With Youth, A YMCA Initiative
This is my second year working with the “YMCA” to raise money for our youth. I believe so strongly in this endeavor. The children are our future and their success is ours. But the playing field is not always level and we have some children who need an extra boost to get to the top. To personalize this just a bit more I wanted to tell you my story with the “Y”
My first camp I ever attended was a “Y” camp at the age of 8. The “Y” held an important place in our community even then. I learned to swim at the “Y”. The “Y” makes sure that every child gets a chance to learn how to swim regardless of income. Also I teach a Pilates class at the Mat Griffin “Y” with the Odyssey Group. These teens are from the Tyee High School down the block. Since the program is not funded we have had to cut back on a very important program I’d like to see come back even better than it was before. I can’t tell you what an experience it has been for me and honor to teach these young people. It is quite challenging to say the least. I have had to modify my teaching approach to keep it fresh and relevant. But these guys don’t only learn about Pilates, they learn about mutual respect, fairness, accountability, discipline and most importantly that they count and are important ! This was very personal to me, but you need to know that there are countless other programs that the “Y” has to offer that directly affect our youth:
There are dozens of good reasons to get involved, but here are a handful:
· Fundraising helps the kids at our Y participate in programs!
· 80% of the kids that participated in karate were given financial aid last year because their families couldn’t afford the full cost
· Nearly 50% of our members receive financial aid because their families can’t afford the full cost
· Programs like karate, swim lessons, youth in government, youth field trips, and Y-Achievers wouldn’t happen if PWY didn’t exist
· Departments like Family Programs and Youth Development would have a very difficult time offering programs without PWY.
Friends, Help me out here! I’m asking each and everyone of you to give something that you can afford. This is not the time to hold back your support, but it is time to give and share!
