YMCA drive can make a difference

Those of us who have the opportunity to show visitors, new residents and prospective employees around town never forget to turn right after the tour of McCook High School.

That's because doing so will take us past the Ed Thomas YMCA, a facility McCook can be proud of.

An Olympic size pool, weight room, track, basketball and racquetball courts -- good grief, there's even a new elevator.

Kidding aside, our community is blessed to have such a fine exercise facility available. It provides an important opportunity for all of us, from toddlers to elderly, to keep our bodies in the best shape possible, year round.

Maintaining and staffing such a facility isn't cheap, but thanks to the generosity of donors, it offers an affordable service to the 3,200 or so residents who are members.

But true to the mission of the Young Men's Christian Association, the service is made available even to those who can't afford it.

For those who are unable to afford a full membership, the Y helps out. Following state poverty guidelines and a graduated scale, the YMCA provided $22,000 worth of subsidies to allow use of its facilities last year.

Although it used to be offered to children only, last year it went to 40 single-parent families, 22 low-income families, 20 adults, eight seniors and two couples. YMCA activities can offer valuable family time for certain members.

It isn't just a handout; all participants are required to pay some or most of the fees out of their own pockets.

And the help is appreciated, according to Mike Gonzales, executive director of the Y.

"We got a nice letter the other day saying 'thanks for the help, but it's no longer necessary. Please change my bank draft to the full price,'" he said. "That makes it all worth it."

Although the Y's balance sheet allows for a certain amount of assistance, last year's figure was higher than budgeted, and is expected to grow again this year.

That's why some 78 YMCA volunteers are out contacting supporters to assist with the 2006 Partners With Youth drive. They hope to bring in $15,000 in contributions or pledges by Feb. 28.

If you're called upon, please consider a generous gift.

We know it will make a big difference in someone's life.