Circles of Change: Conversations with Dr. Zara Larsen
on Change Leadership and Career Fulfillment
February 25, 2009
“Are You Y-Healthy?”
Guest: Dane Woll
Anchoring Points:
1. The YMCA of Southern Arizona is dedicated to improving the quality of human life and to helping all people realize their fullest potential through the development of Spirit, Mind and Body. In 2008, we served more that 57,000 members, touching the lives of nearly 1 in 5 Pima County residents.
2. We used to be just for men and boys, but today’s YMCA’s are for everyone, striving to include people of all ages, colors, races, cultures, incomes and abilities. Meeting needs for special needs kids is among the many challenges our YMCA face daily.
3. In Tucson we have grown from a single facility to a comprehensive multi-branch system that includes four full health and wellness facilities, three sites dedicated to providing quality child care, a spectacular Camp and Retreat Center, and over a dozen school-based sites that provide school age child care.
4. We are the largest provider of licensed child care in Southern Arizona. We work with 5 school districts: TUSD, SUSD, Sahuarita, Vail and Tanque Verde.
5. We are committed to helping “health seekers” achieve higher levels of physical fitness and well being. Health and fitness has been at the core of our program offerings since our modest beginnings, having invented basketball, volleyball and racquet ball, and being on the forefront of the running craze.
6. For over 5 years now, we have been working with several key community partners to create and pilot some innovative programming designed to combat youth obesity and teach kids the benefits of physical activity and nutrition.
7. In 2008, YMCA requests for financial assistance increased by more than 30%, and we expect an increase again in 2009. Successful annual campaign that allowed us to meet that need.
8. The YMCA board promises that “no child will be turned away due to the inability to pay a program fee.” With that commitment comes an annual volunteer-driven effort to raise the needed funds. This year, close to 300 volunteer campaign workers canvassing the community seeking funds to support those in need. Donations are accepted via website at www.tucsonymca.org and every donation counts.
YMCAs prevention services are critically important during times of economic distress. Kids learn important character values – caring, honesty, respect and responsibility, and they play and stay active in safe nurturing environments. Families have a place to play together and benefit from multiple opportunities to spend valuable quality time together.
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