HOUSE MEMORIAL 63

53rd legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - second session, 2018

INTRODUCED BY

Stephanie Garcia Richard

A MEMORIAL

DECLARING FEBRUARY 7, 2018 "YMCA DAY" IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

     WHEREAS, for over one hundred years, the New Mexico state alliance of YMCAs has strengthened the foundations of communities in New Mexico through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility programs; and

     WHEREAS, more and more New Mexicans are turning to their local YMCA for education and support on nutrition and for programs to help manage diabetes and other chronic diseases; and

     WHEREAS, more than twenty-three thousand individuals benefit directly each year from the YMCA's extensive programs for all ages and abilities, including early childhood education, job-readiness programs for teens and health and wellness support for senior citizens; and

     WHEREAS, more than ten thousand youth benefit each year from various programs, including YMCA after-school enrichment, youth summer camp, youth in government, developmental sports, teen centers and programs that connect youth to the outdoors, such as earth service corps and camp Shaver; and

     WHEREAS, more than one thousand four hundred individuals volunteer at YMCAs each year, donating thousands of hours of time and expertise, making the YMCA one of the largest volunteer-driven and volunteer-led organizations in New Mexico; and

     WHEREAS, each YMCA is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization governed by a local volunteer board whose directors give generously of their time and money because they believe that, every day, the YMCA is working to meet the most pressing needs in their communities, from addressing health and education disparities to providing critical services and support to underserved populations; and

     WHEREAS, more than five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) has been awarded in financial aid so that anyone, regardless of ability to pay, can participate in the YMCA through financial aid programs supported by donations to the annual campaign from YMCA members, community members and community partners;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that February 7, 2018 be declared "YMCA Day" in the house of representatives in recognition of the important role that the YMCA plays in providing community programs and support to youth, families and adults throughout New Mexico; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this memorial be transmitted to the New Mexico alliance of YMCAs.

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