'Choose to Care' theme of $81,000 United Way fund drive

YMCA staff members include (from left) Donna DeVaughn, receptionist; Kathy Shaffer, office manager; Anna Sis, aquatics director; Corine Edson, program director; Mike Gonzales, director.

"Choose to Care" is the theme for this year's United Way fund drive, which has a goal of $81,000 and continues through Dec. 15.

The following agency benefits from your United Way contribution:

YMCA

The mission of the YMCA is to organize human, financial, and material resources to encourage the spiritual, physical, mental, social and leadership growth of any individual within a Christian atmosphere. As the City of McCook does not have a recreational department, the YMCA has assumed this role and is the main organization of youth and adult sports. In the youth sports the role of the coach has been expanded to emphasizing character development, fair play and sportsmanship. The YMCA is the leader in the fitness field providing classes and fitness activities for all ages from pre-school children to senior citizens, serving two-thirds of the citizens in the McCook Area. McCook United Way funds are used to offset the cost of programs and services.

The Ed Thomas YMCA will not deny program participation or membership to any school age child because of an individual's inability to pay. Any family needing assistance for their child should contact a school official or clergyman. Mike Gonzales is the director of the YMCA can be contacted at 901 West E or 345-6228.