(Jan. 28, 2010) Each year, the Hunterdon County YMCA conducts the Strong Kids Campaign to provide families in need with financial support to participate in membership and program activities at the Hunterdon County YMCA. YMCA members and community volunteers hope to raise more than this year’s goal of $180,000 to provide membership assistance and scholarships to programs like summer camp, child care and teen activities, so that no one is turned away due to an inability to pay. The 2010 Strong Kids Campaign kicks-off on Feb. 8 at Roman Jewelers in Flemington.
The Strong Kids Campaign is led by volunteers who make a commitment to serve their neighbors in need. Jim Lewy, serving as the Campaign Chair, will lead the 2010 Strong Kids Campaign. He will be supported by Jason Read, who will chair the Team Section of the Campaign.
Jim Lewy is a Senior Vice President at Wells Fargo Advisors in Flemington. He serves on the Hunterdon County YMCA Board of Trustees and has been a member of the YMCA for over ten years. Jim is a resident of Flemington. His wife, son and daughter also volunteer for the YMCA.
Jason Read is an Olympic Rowing gold medalist and a US National team veteran training for his third Olympic Games. As Chief of the Amwell Valley – Ringoes Rescue Squad, he was among those who responded to the World Trade Center after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. He is a lifelong resident of Ringoes and is pursuing a Masters Degree in Homeland Security from St. Joseph’s University. He is a motivational speaker and founder of a consulting firm focused on non-profit management, education, public policy and transportation. Jason is the youngest member of the Hunterdon County YMCA Board of Trustees and also serves on the Temple University Owl Club Executive Committee.
“Strong Kids promotes the one thing missing in our children’s lives—an active and healthy childhood,” said Jim Lewy, this year’s Strong Kids Campaign Chair. “For many kids, it’s a chance of a lifetime just to go to camp in the summer or play on a soccer team that puts teamwork and friendship ahead of winning.”
“I am pleased to be involved with the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign because kids are growing up too fast and missing the years that determine their talents, passions and future life plans. The Strong Kids Campaign promotes childhood in Hunterdon County,” said Jason Read.
YMCA programs help children and teens to be strong in spirit, mind and body. Concerns about childhood obesity and lack of physical activity are often raised in the media. The YMCA offers a variety of programs to help children be more active. These programs don’t require that a child be an athlete, but gives them the opportunity to find activities that are fun and that they enjoy doing. Young people learn teamwork and leadership skills, which will serve them both on and off the field. In addition, values such as caring, honesty, respect and responsibility are taught as part of all YMCA programs.
Through the Hunterdon County YMCA’s 2010 Strong Kids Campaign, over 2,100 people in Hunterdon County will be able to participate in Y programs that build strong kids, families and communities.
To become involved with the 2010 Strong Kids Campaign, please call Hilary Kruchowy at 908-236-7879 x11. For more information, visit www.hcymca.org.
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