From the YMCA of Rock River Valley
This is a critical time for our Rockford community, which faces unprecedented economic and social challenges. Here at the YMCA we have the opportunity to increase the understanding of the impact the Y has on the greater Rockford community. This will help us reach even more people who can benefit from what we offer.
While some of our programs have changed over the years and our service evolved, the Ys mission has stayed the same. The character values embedded in our programs and services also remain unchanged. Our values – caring, honesty, responsibility, and respect – are the foundation of our mission, which is to put these Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.
At the Y, we've always known that positive change comes about when we collectively invest in our kids, our health, and our neighbors. Our new brand image and communication strategy simplifies how we describe what we do by grouping our services into three areas: Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility.
We focus on youth development because young people need caring adults to provide support, guidance, and encouragement as they grow. We focus on healthy living because wellness in spirit, mind, and body strengthens our very being and enhances our interactions with others. And we focus on social responsibility because we truly are in this together, and together we can harness our individual strengths and bring about positive change within our communities.
The Y's board of directors recently approved the 2010-2013 Strategic Plan, which is based on these areas of focus. This is our promise to the people of the Rock River Valley.
Over the next three years you'll see Y programs emphasize nutrition, physical activity, and experiential learning. Our goal is to provide kids with the tools and support they need to be capable and motivated to make healthy choices in their daily lives. We use the asset model - the resources identified by the Search Institute that support children in growing and developing into happy, productive adults. And we will measure the outcomes to provide evidence and improve program quality. Our efforts will also support strengthening families though shared experiences and opportunities for parents to be actively involved in their child's progress.
Over the next three years you'll see more opportunities for citizens to be engaged in regular healthy lifestyle activities. We will enhance our branch operations to attract health seekers in a welcoming and supported manner.
The Y is a good steward of our resources and gives back to the community in meaningful ways that contribute to the good of all. Collaboration is our way of conducting business. We are blessed to have many collaborative partners in many different areas. A collaborative partnership with Rockford Rotary supports youth leadership development. Our Pioneering Healthy Communities initiative engages collaborative partners in developing and influencing policy at the city and state level. We advance our mission through charitable donations that allow low income and under-served individuals and families the chance to participate in programs or obtain a Y membership.
Every child deserves the chance to reach his or her potential. Every family deserves the chance to have a place to go together and grow together. Every community deserves citizens with leadership qualities. These elements are the foundation of a strong community. Your Y has been providing these services since 1876. With a dedicated board and qualified staff, your Y will continue to strengthen the foundation of community for decades to come.
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