| |
How You Can Help
A Message from our Youth Scholarship Chair
It is my pleasure and privilege to serve as the 2008 PWY chairperson. I remember fondly my time at the
Robert K. Fox Family Y when I was a child. I was involved in programming like “biddy basketball” and
I took swimming lessons. While most often it was my brother and me who would go, occasionally my
family would be at the Y. As I recall, we would pay nominal fee, like 25 or 50 cents at the desk.
For that, we basically had the run of the place. We enjoyed playing basketball and dodge ball in the
gym.
It is obvious that times have changed, programs have changed and yes, fees have changed. However,
one thing that has not changed is that the Y remains a place where youth can participate in many
activities in a safe and clean environment. In my adult life, I know that the reason anyone can
participate or enjoy the Y is in part because of people in this community who open doors for everyone.
So while the Y has grown in many ways, in the most important way it remains a constant beacon for
families and children seeking safe, fun activities just like my family many years ago.
I believe the special part of what I get to do is be part of this “special feeling” of helping my
community and helping the YMCA family of children and adults. While I don’t think of myself as a “hero”,
it is clear to me that someone was my hero as a child that helped me enjoy the YMCA. I truly believe
that as you consider your response to our “Kids Need Heroes” partner with youth campaign, you have the
ability to be that special person to the kid down the street. Our YMCA heroes give children the
opportunity to learn about honesty, caring, respect and responsibility. Our YMCA heroes don’t seek
recognition for themselves but want the greater good for the Y kid. Our YMCA heroes prove over and
over that the campaign will be successful when we help one more child or one more family than last year.
As our volunteers make those calls to all our “heroes”, I encourage you to join me in supporting the
Partner with Youth campaign 2008. Thank you for becoming the next “hero” in a child’s life.
Seven A. Davis
Chairman, Partnership with Youth Campaign
2008
|