The Duneland Family YMCA has announced the kick-off of its 2008 campaign, a fundraising effort to increase support for the Duneland Family YMCA’s scholarship fund.

Proceeds from the campaign will fund scholarships that allow children and families who otherwise may not be able to, to benefit from family strengthening YMCA programs such as child care, day camp and programs for at-risk youth.

YMCA Executive Director, Kym Groceman as well as YMCA board members and staff members joined members of the Duneland Community for a Wine and Cheese Gathering where Dan and Joy Johnston, of the Duneland Resale Shop, presented the YMCA with a check for $5000. Groceman accepted the check on behalf of the YMCA.

Tom Roberts, YMCA Board Member, is leading the campaign effort as the Campaign Chairperson. “We are proud to be able to meet the growing needs of our community by providing financial assistance for individuals and families who want and need YMCA programs but may not otherwise be able to afford them. Our goal is to raise $40,000 to provide scholarships for children and families from all income levels to participate in YMCA programs,” Roberts said.

At the heart of the Duneland community, the mission-driven YMCA is “a place to belong” and to live the values that guide and unite Y members: caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

The YMCA provides a special opportunity for kids and adults to join life-changing and life-saving programs such as day camp, child care, youth sports, water safety, before and afterschool care, and summer camp.

“Children and families in our community need and deserve the family-oriented programs and services the YMCA can provide,” said Groceman. “Few things are more important than a healthy lifestyle, strong community, positive role models and quality time spent together as a family. This is a critical campaign for the future of our community, and I am honored to be involved.”

The YMCA offers kids and families the chance to make positive choices: Quality child care opportunities mean parents can work to improve their quality of life; youth sports programs give kids the chance to belong to a team devoted to making a positive difference; and healthy lifestyle programs give everyone in the family the chance to lead healthier, more productive lives.

Last year the Duneland YMCA support campaign raised enough money to allow many kids and families to participate in the YMCA Childcare.

This year, the achieved goals of the campaign will allow even more assistance to those in need in the Duneland community.

Posted 7/1/2008