YMCA of the Capital Area
2009 was a year filled with the challenges of changing times and economic uncertainty. However, with each new challenge, we were presented with a new opportunity. With the stressors of everyday life and the struggling economy, the YMCA encouraged everyone to “Invest in You, Your Family and Your Community”.
Last year, the YMCA invested in you and your family by continuing to provide programs and services that encouraged developing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Family programs experienced a 50% growth, increasing from 1,538 participants to 2,315. Summer day camp and after school childcare programs grew 12%, increasing from 19,377 children in 2008 to 21,684 children in 2009. The “SPLASH” program provided free swim lessons to over 460 kids.
Our YMCA also continued to invest in the community. This past year, we began construction on a new 12,000 square foot facility at Howell Place. Made possible by a generous one million dollar gift from ExxonMobil, this facility is being built on 2.8 acres of land, which was donated by Richard Preis. This YMCA will bring much-needed programs to the north Baton Rouge area and is scheduled to open in fall/winter 2010.
The Homeless Outreach, another investment in our community, grew stronger in 2009. The Bicycle Ministry, a volunteer-driven program, donated over 200 refurbished bikes to the homeless in our area. In addition, over $532,000 worth of clothing, toiletries, food, blankets, and Christmas packages were given to those in need. The Sunday Church Ministry has grown to provide Sunday church service to over 125 homeless in the community.
The YMCA collaborated with several organizations to provide additional benefits to the community. Our facilities were a donation site for the Cinderella Dress Project, which collected over 8,500 prom dresses. Once again, we partnered with BREC to operate 6 community pools. This was the third year to do so. A first year partnership with American Legion allowed the YMCA to deliver their baseball program to over 300 children.
In 2009, the YMCA formed a unique collaboration with GMFS Lending that focuses on the fiscal health of the community. Financial seminars will be offered at all locations to help you and your family manage through challenging times.
The YMCA continued to meet the needs of the community as it strived for excellence. Our true measure of success continues to be the impact we have on shaping the lives of families, children and adults.
We thank our donors, volunteer and staff for investing in the YMCA as we continue to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities.