I have been working at the YMCA-YWCA of Guelph for over 16 years now and have seen our Y go through many changes from program delivery to the size of operations but one thing has not changed; the Y's commitment to building strong kids in our community.

Throughout my years with the Y, I have worked in licensed child care. I have known many families and have had the opportunity to see some great children grow up through our programs and eventually transition into our camps and youth leadership programs.

Research has shown us that a positive early years experience can provide children the foundation they need to succeed throughout their educational careers. By being a part of the Strong Kids Campaign you are helping us continue to be able to provide this support and education to kids and their parents who otherwise might not have a successful experience in their early years.

Society has seen a dramatic decline in our economy which has resulted in a lot of job losses, closing of businesses, etc which impacts our children. Without work parents are unable to continue with their children in child care which results in loss of child care space for that family when the parents do go back to work but more importantly their children…our children of society are no longer accessing early learning and development. We know that these experiences and opportunities provide children with the skills they need to succeed upon entering elementary school. We have seen an increase in family need for financial assistance and even went through a period when the government could no longer provide assistance to families so out of desperation; they turned to the Y for help!

Unfortunately child care continues to be grossly under funded yet continues to be an expensive service to offer to our community.

I am very passionate about contributing to our young children's development and want to ensure that all children have a wonderful experience. I really do feel that we make a difference to the ongoing development of our young children and I am asking that you assist us by donating today.

Whatever you can give, do it now! Click the green button at the top of this page. I did and I am able to see my donation working everyday to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities in Guelph.

Dawn