The YMCA is here to serve you

Although there has been troubling economic news nationwide over the last year, the YMCA offers a path to cope with the impact of our often-stressful lives, to stay fit and avoid preventable health problems. It provides opportunities for friendships – both new and old alike, greater family bonds, and active participation in community building and networking.

During such a financial climate, the need for affordable, healthy, and positive activities for families is more important than ever. YMCAs provide opportunities for families to play together, to bond through recreation and simple fun, and to meet others from all walks in life. Through all these activities, the YMCA strives to cultivate the human potential, self-esteem and dignity of all people and promotes the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

More than just swimming lessons, gyms and fitness centers, the YMCA of Delaware is child care, children’s programs, sports programs, a variety of exercise classes, and resident and summer day camp. It is also bully prevention, leadership development, and substance abuse prevention outreach programs.

And because any of us may at one time or another face financial hardship, the YMCA of Delaware is dedicated to helping families and individuals who have been hit hardest and extends assistance through the Open Doors program. Many of the funds for this assistance come from fellow YMCA members and community businesses through the Strong Kids Campaign.

The center pages of this issue of Mission show just a few ways the YMCA continues to work with communities, both large and small, to address important social needs.