The South Brunswick Family YMCA is thankful for its success last year and looks forward to its 10 year anniversary.
By: Tom Libassi
The South Brunswick Family YMCA wants to thank everyone who contributed to our success this year. Thankfully, the list gets longer each year. Membership has grown, contributions have increased and more local businesses have begun supporting the Y. We’ve had our share of success stories again this year as evidenced by the new outdoor volleyball court built completely with donations and in-kind services, a new entrance sign built by the Middlesex County VoTech masonry students and a $77,626 grant for special needs programming from the county. In addition, we received a $3,000 grant for childcare from AT&T and had a successful first membership picnic in July.
As we move into 2006, the South Brunswick Family YMCA will be celebrating 10 years of service to the surrounding communities including Franklin Park, Cranbury, Monroe, Jamesburg, North Brunswick, South Brunswick, Plainsboro and Princeton. To celebrate our 10th birthday, a series of promotions will be offered throughout the year. In 2005, we provided programming for over 1,000 children and adults and we expect the number to increase in 2006. Our focus this year will be quality programs at an affordable price. I encourage you to visit us and consider joining our family.
In early 2006, the Y expects to complete the sale of land to South Brunswick Township, which will be preserved as open space. The proceeds will be used to enhance and upgrade the facility, including completing the renovations to 12,000 square feet of unused space. I can assure you that this will be an exciting year for the Y and the community.
Striving to meet the Y’s mission is not an easy task. It can only be done through the continued generosity and support of our community and businesses. The "Strong Kids Campaign" has been launched with the ambitious goal of raising $100,000 to help provide financial assistance to participants in need, increase program diversity and help offset program costs. Donations from last year’s campaign helped the South Brunswick Family YMCA provide financial assistance to more than 80 families. Our goal for this year is to assist 115 families.
Please help the South Brunswick Family YMCA continue to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities by mailing your donation to the "Strong Kids Campaign". Please consider naming the South Brunswick Family YMCA as your charity of choice in your company’s matching gift program. All donations are tax deductible and will be acknowledged. Please make your check payable to the South Brunswick Family YMCA and mail it to 329 Culver Road, Monmouth Junction, N.J. 08852.
We look forward to seeing you. Thank you for supporting your local YMCA.
Tom Libassi is the executive director of the South Brunswick Family YMCA.