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Dear YMCA Members and Friends,
From the beginning, volunteers have been an integral part of the YMCA. Presently, it is through the efforts of our volunteer board members that we are able to achieve a collective mission. The YMCA has served the Pilsen, Little Village, Brighton Park, and Back of the Yards Communities for over 4 years as Rauner Family YMCA and
before that, served for 20 years as Pilsen YMCA. We reach out to our youth and families in the community with after-school and fitness programs in-line with the YMCA's core values: caring, respect, honesty, and responsibility.
We recognize that these are difficult times for all; however, Rauner Family YMCA is committed to pursue resources that will allow us to continue operating and serving the community. Last year we provided approximately $245,000 in scholarships and this year the need for scholarships is increasing and the challenge to raise funds in today's environment is even greater.
In order to support the YMCA's charitable mission of serving all, regardless of ability to pay, Rauner Family YMCA raises funds through individual donations from members, local businesses, corporations and through two major fundraising events. Our first event of the year was the Rauner Family YMCA Annual Golf Classic on June17th, 2010. At this event, over 100 participants comprised of Rauner YMCA members, corporate leaders, small business owners, organization executives, and community leaders joined us to support Rauner Family YMCA programs.
The second major event of the year is Fiesta de los Deportes at the White Sox stadium on September 16th, with the White Sox as presenting hosts. This year Rauner Family YMCA will honor two individuals who have made a difference in the Rauner Family YMCA and our community. They are: Mayor of Chicago (Invited) Richard Michael Daley and Chairman of the Chicago White Sox (Invited) Jerry Reinsdorf. Community and corporate leaders, along with Rauner members and community members are invited to participate in this event that supports the YMCA mission.
Thanks to the dedication of the board members and staff at these events, Rauner is able to keep its doors open the proceeds of the events will help us continue our free programs and membership scholarships for low-income youth and families who might not otherwise be able to afford a membership. As the level of violence in the community increases, Rauner's priority to be a safe haven for youth through programs such as Teen Reach, CHAT club, Black and Latino Achievers, Strong Kids and Day Camp which are possible thanks to events like these.
I would personally like to recognize the Rauner Family YMCA board members and staff for their commitment to Rauner and the families and youth it serves. Thanks to them, we can continue to build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.
Roberto Medina
Interim Executive Director
Rauner Family YMCA
