Let's Build A Strong Community Together

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This year we have the wonderful opportunity to spotlight two very extraordinary people.

Quanisha Pool has been a member of the Downtown YMCA's School Age Childcare program at Gateway Elementary School for the past two years. She has had the chance to interact with other children, be in the care of friendly and helpful staff, and build character focusing around the four core values of the YMCA.

When asked, Quanisha's mother, Ms. Hughes, told us she heard about the Strong Community Campaign from a staff person. "As a working mother, I knew I needed help with the care of my children after school. Quanisha has special needs [and is confined to a wheelchair] and we were concerned there wouldn't be help for her. But after seeing the School Age Childcare Program, I was very pleased. The YMCA staff is trained, knowledgeable and caring."

Our second story comes from another of our members, Chris Hickombottom, who visits the Downtown-Marquette YMCA every week to continue his training and conditioning for the Special Olympics. He first came to the YMCA through a work program, his mother informed us. "It's wonderful seeing Chris so excited about his visits to the YMCA; I am thankful there is assistance availalbe."

Chris has his own description of what the YMCA has done for him and in the community: "I come to the Downtown-Marquette YMCA 3-4 times a week. Everybody knows my name and I know everybody. My coaches - Scott, Susan, Liz and Ayanna - are great! They help me and encourage me to reach my goals. The YMCA gives me something to do; it's fun, clean and a safe environment. I have something to look forward to because I have a variety of things to do."

We are blessed to have these individuals among our many members, and hope we can continue to provide them and others with the assistance they need.

The YMCA mission is at the heart of all of our programs: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirits, minds and bodies for all. We can only live up to our mission, and truly serve all who need us, with the help of committed and generous donors like you who give to the YMCA Strong Community Campaign. Your help ensures that no one, of any age, race, gender or ability, will ever be turned away from a YMCA program because they can’t afford it. Please consider a gift today.

How does my gift help?

• $1,000
  Enables a child or adult with disabilities to participate in YMCA programs with extra support through the Inclusion Services program, where they discover their own strength and build spirit.
• $200
  Enables a teen to build leadership skills and self-esteem in a YMCA Teen Leaders Club for one year.
• $100
  Helps cover the cost of safe, quality care for a child in one of the YMCA’s many preschool, child care or day camp programs, ensuring that no child is home alone.
• $50
  Provides aquatic classes for a person with diminished mobility, offering fitness, fun and fellowship.

For more information, please contact Jay Pecovish at (314) 436-7070