How does a society make itself stronger? By helping its youth become strong, independent, confident and by reaching out to teens at risk. Making a positive impact on the lives of children has been a fundamental goal of the YMCA of Greater Erie for 144 years.

The reason is simple: children are the world of tomorrow but that world is shaped today. Critical to helping children and their families is the long-held Christian principle of the YMCA mission that no one will be denied membership or program participation because of inability to pay.

To provide a base of support for persons who need financial assistance, the YMCA has developed a system of making memberships available through a scholarship program. It could be argued that by making such scholarships available, the YMCA is performing the highest realization of its mission.  Frequently, many people who could benefit from the sense of community of Christian values are the ones unable to afford a YMCA membership. It is to these many youngsters that the YMCA reaches out with basic understandings of new, positive friendships and values of health and spiritual enrichment. Such programs, classes and lessons can have a lifelong impact but only if children are given the opportunity to take part and belong.

Every dollar of the money raised annually by the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign goes directly toward immersing a child in the YMCA's world of positive values and guidance. Funds raised by last year's Strong Kids Campaign subsidized child care for more than 2,500 children. It made swim instruction and summer camp possible for more than 6,000 area children and provided $150,000 in program and membership scholarships for children and families who otherwise would not have had these positive opportunities.

When a YMCA volunteer calls on you during our 2007 YMCA of Greater Erie Strong Kids Campaign, remember that your tax-deductible contribution will directly make a positive impact on the lives of youth and families in our community.

If you would like more information about the Strong Kids Campaign, call (814) 452-1432.