By Meredith Gardner
meredith.gardner@theindependent.com

And with a 2008 campaign goal of $30,000, organizers hope to be able to help assist at least the same number this year.

The 2008 YMCA Strong Kids Campaign began March 1 and is slated to end April 1.

The money raised will be used to provide membership and program registration assistance to youth whose families cannot afford to pay for their participation, Galen Stehlik, campaign chairman, said.

"I think it furthers the mission of the YMCA," Stehlik said. "We've got excellent programs at the Y, and many times people bypass those ... We'd like to think that through this Strong Kids Campaign, we might be able to have a broader appeal."

The money has been used to allow children to participate in the YMCA's youth sports, swimming lessons, pool parties, after-school and summer fun clubs, art, theater and other programs. It can also go toward assisting families in need of childcare, said Thor Larson, YMCA executive director.

The YMCA can provide a safe place for at-risk children, or any children, to get engaged and build self-esteem, Larson said.

And with the declining economy, Larson anticipates even more families may need help from the Strong Kids Campaign this year.

"We don't turn anybody away for inability to pay," Larson said. "This allows us to fulfill that pledge."

The YMCA will continue to accept donations made to the Strong Kids Campaign even after April 1, Larson said. To donate, Larson suggested visiting the YMCA's Web site, www.giymca.org/, and printing out a donation form.

"This Strong Kids Campaign, it's not what we do, it's what we are," Larson said. "What we are is helping people, but we need the support of the community to meet those goals."

For more information, contact the Grand Island YMCA at 395-9622.