Executive Director’s Notes

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S NOTES

Hello All!

Did you know the mission of the YMCA is “To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all!” Each and every one of you is so vitally important for us in reaching this mission. Whether by volunteering, giving, using the Y in whatever capacity, it all leads us back to the mission. I believe we bring people together. Let me encourage you to consider the YMCA as your social outlet, part of your health improvement plan, and your family bonding time. We are happy to help. When you are a part of the YMCA you will find all kinds of great programs for kids, teens, active older adults and families.

We also just completed the intitial three week kick-off of our annual Scholarship Drive. The drive ensures no one is turned away because of an inability to pay. Help is available in membership, childcare and program assistance. Please consider making a gift to help with this great cause. We are currently at 88 percent of our goal of raising $60,000. This along with funds from the United Way of Jasper County help us not have to turn anyone away because of an inability to pay.

Next, we are working on improving our communication with the community and our members. In order to do so you will see a new look to our newsletter, website, improved advertising in the Newton Daily News and other area papers, as well as increased marketing on KCOB and Energy 106.7 FM. We hope to bring you more of our message so you better understand our overall mission and goals.

Don’t forget about our YMCA Childcare Center at 2713 N. Fourth Ave. E. We are working on a plan to do a little sprucing up to the overall appearance of the building. Plans are being worked on as we speak. Aces Teen Club is getting a bit of a facelift as well. We are working on a plan to fix up the outside of thge building and reparing the “red portion” of the exterior that is currently pealing. We’ve also made some interior improvements by adding a DJ booth, steps to the skate park, and we are trying to fix our lights in the gym area.

Lastly, we continue to develop our wish list. It includes the development of a concession stand, shelter house and playground facility out on our gamefields just south of the YMCA. We would also like to get a batting cage/golf mat to add to our Aces Teen Club. If you have an interest in contributing to one of these projects as a volunteer or making a donation, please let me know. You can contact me at (641) 792-4006 or e-mail me at tom.vanderlaan@newtonymca.org.

I hope you all have a great summer and I’ll see you at the Y.
Tom Vanderlaan
Executive Director