The Somerset Valley YMCA launched their 2011 Strong Kids Campaign at the Somerville Family YMCA on Thursday, February 3rd with over 100 people in attendance for their western-themed event. 

CEO, Paul Kieltyka welcomed everyone in attendance.  He spoke of how the Y has so many wonderful programs that serve the community.   He also mentioned how requests for financial assistance have increased over the last year prompting a need to increase the Strong Kids Campaign goal over last year's amount.  It was also noted that the Somerset Valley YMCA provided over $659,000 in financial assistance and community subsidies  helping over 1,000 children, families and senior citizens.

Director of Development JoAnn Kulikowski then introduced Somerset Valley YMCA Board Chair, Andrea Thorne.  After welcoming everyone to the event, Thorne mentioned what great work the Y did.  Said Thorne, "The Strong Kids Campaign gives me the opportunity to talk about Y and the wonderful things the Y does."  

(Pictured right:  Co-chair Steve Emr and SVYMCA CEO, Paul Kieltyka)

Branch Executives, Tim Dry, Valerie Giacopelli and Dan Levitt introduced their Branch Chairs and spoke of their Strong Kid Campaign goals. Storytellers for each branch engaged everyone at the event with their mission stories about what the Somerset Valley YMCA has meant to them.

Bridgewater Family YMCA Branch Executive, Tim Dry spoke for Catherine Reilly.  Dry had taught Catherine how to swim when she was a child.  She is now a swim instructor at the Y and also works with Special Olympics.  Dry read a letter from Special Olympics stating how wonderful Catherine was as a swim coach and how she's helped so many people.

Alex Voitovich, a Hillsborough Board member for the last four years, mentioned how he moved from Texas 20 years ago and joined the Y.  "The Y is much more then just a gym and swim, it's a family", said Voitovich. "The Y does so much and we need to get our story out."

Michael Stitley, a storyteller for the Somerville Family YMCA recalled how the Y had a huge impact on him since he was 12 years of age.  Mr. Stitley also was involved in all types of Y programs through the years from summer camp to after school to locker service.  Said Stitley, "I'm proud to be part of  an organization like the Y."

Co-Chair, Steve Emr of Team Capital Bank wrapped up the speaker portion of the evening.  Mr. Emr spoke of how important it is for the Y to reach their goal for financial assistance.  Co-Chair Pete Schoberl of Community First Bank was unable to attend.

The Strong Kids Campaign will run through March 15th when the Y will hold its annual meeting and victory celebration at the Somerville Elks.  Even though the campaign ends in March, donations are always welcome throughout the year.
 
The Y counts on the generosity of members and community to help people of all ages and from all walks of life, be more healthy confident, connected and secure.  Financial assistance keeps the Y available for kids and families who need the Y the most.  Find out more about the Somerset Valley YMCA visit www.ymcasomersetvalley.org.

 
Donna Dass
Public Relations Director
Somerset Valley YMCA
(908) 722-4567 ext. 629