HOUSE MEMORIAL 26

52nd legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - second session, 2016

INTRODUCED BY

Stephanie Garcia Richard

A MEMORIAL

DECLARING FEBRUARY 4, 2016 "YMCA DAY" IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.

     WHEREAS, for one hundred one 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 on nutrition and for programs to help manage diabetes and other chronic diseases and for support in their desire to live healthy lifestyles; and

     WHEREAS, nearly thirty-eight 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, fitness and wellness opportunities and healthy living programs for senior citizens; and

     WHEREAS, nearly fourteen thousand youth benefit each year from programs such as YMCA after-school enrichment, youth-in- government, developmental sports, earth service corps, camp Shaver, teen life-skills classes and teen centers; and

     WHEREAS, almost five hundred individuals volunteer at YMCAs each year, donating thousands of hours of time and expertise so that others may develop their potential, making the YMCA one of the largest volunteer-driven and volunteer-led organizations in New Mexico; and

     WHEREAS, each YMCA is governed by a local volunteer board of directors whose members believe that every day the YMCA is working to meet the most pressing needs in their community, from addressing health and education disparities to providing critical services and support to underserved populations, and whose members give generously of their time and money so that residents may grow as responsible members of their communities; and

     WHEREAS, nearly seven hundred thousand dollars ($700,000) has been awarded in financial aid programs funded by annual campaign donations from members, community members and community partners, so that anyone, regardless of ability to pay, can participate in YMCA activities and programs;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that February 4, 2016 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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