Dear Maggie,

I would like to let you know that I extremely appreciate everything you have done for me and the guitar group. While receiving the merchandise you bought for us, you could see a glow in people's faces. I am very glad that you and the &qout;Y&qout; have decided to help and provide for us. It is clear to me now that you and your foundation are very benevolent people. All of the kids in our group know that you guys are very diligent and try your best to help us, and we are glad enough to show you that we do care and appreciate everything you do. It is also a good thing to know that we have a benefactor, who, as a kind group of people, has created amity between a simple group of kids trying to learn guitar and a generous company. THANK YOU!

Sincerely yours,
Desirea Price
NEWPORT MESA FAMILY YMCA

We have been members of the YMCA for many years. It has had such a positive impact on my life and the lives of my children. I attend aqua aerobics regularly, while my kids have taken swim lessons, basketball, and volleyball sports clinics. They have attended many of the social gatherings at the YMCA as well, e.g. Movie Nights, Date Nights and a sleepover.

When the economy turned, we joined the ranks of the long-term unemployed. Budgeting within the confines of an unemployment check meant we'd have to eliminate our membership. Thankfully, our monthly membership rate was reduced during this difficult time, and we've been able to stay on. In fact, my girls were given a financial aid scholarship to attend your Fine Art class this summer. What a treat! They learned about art around the world as they drew, painted, and made totems. We are all so grateful and thankful to have the YMCA make a difference in our lives.

Anonymous
NEWPORT MESA FAMILY YMCA

I started as a 6 month old in the Waukesha Family YMCA's KidZone. From there I was in everything, from basketball, soccer, t-ball, swimming, to gymnastics (until I reached 6 foot and realized it was not going to be my sport). I grew up at Phantom Lake YMCA resident camp during the summers, where each week each child was encouraged to grow by setting goals, meeting new friends, and trying new activities. The camp really promoted the verse Luke 2:52 "And Jesus increases in Wisdom, Stature and in favor with God and man". Regardless of what religion you were you were encouraged to grow in your relationships with others, personal knowledge, confidence, and spirituality. These goals would follow me through the year and I continue to grow in each of these areas. At this camp I started a counselor-in-training program, and after three summers of being a volunteer assistant counselor, I became a counselor and later director. In college I was able to continue working out at my local YMCA because I was offered financial assistance. Later after college financial assistance helped me a lot while I needed to do physical therapy after surgeries. I have continued to work for the YMCA for the past 10 years and I have continued to learn and grow. I have been able to give back and lead others in reaching their goals and help fundraise so everyone has the opportunity to work out at the YMCA. The YMCA has played a major role in creating who I am today.

Anonymous
NEWPORT MESA FAMILY YMCA