Proceeds from the Strong Kids Campaign will fund scholarships that allow children and families to benefit from family-strengthening YMCA programs such as child care, day camp and programs for at-risk youths.

"We are proud to be able to meet the growing needs of our community by providing financial assistance for individuals and families who want and need YMCA programs but may not otherwise be able to afford them," said Dan Yost, a member of the Hastings Family YMCA board of directors who is chairing the campaign effort. "Our goal is to raise $45,000 to provide scholarships for children and families from all income levels to participate in YMCA programs."

The YMCA offers kids and families the chance to make positive choices, YMCA officials said. Quality child-care opportunities mean parents can work to improve their quality of life, youth sports programs give kids the chance to belong to a team devoted to making a positive difference, and healthy lifestyle programs give everyone in the family the chance to lead healthier, more productive lives.

Last year, the Hastings Family YMCA gave out $40,000 in scholarships.

For details on donating to the Hastings Family YMCA Strong Kids Campaign, call (402) 463-3139 or visit one of Hastings' YMCA locations.