"Investing In Kids, Families and Communities" was the theme for the YMCA of the Capital Area's annual meeting held May 11th at Boudreaux's. Ann Trappey, Metropolitan Board Chair 2008-2010, presided over the event, along with Bob Jacobs, CEO of the YMCA of the Capital Area. Jacobs reported some of the highlights for the YMCA of the Capital Area, those included, a 50% growth in family programming, summer day camp and after school childcare programs grew 12%, the "SPLASH" program provided free swim lessons to over 460 children and the continued construction of the Howell Place YMCA, scheduled to open this fall. The homeless outreach program also grew stronger in 2009, over $532,000 worth of clothing, toiletries, food, blankets, and Christmas packages were given to those in need. The Sunday Church Ministry has grown to provide church service to over 125 homeless in the community. Jacobs also thanked the volunteers of the YMCA of the Capital Area who donate $909,033 worth in volunteer hours.
Highlights of the evening included the presentation of the Myron Falk Fundraising Award which was presented to Bryon Bennett. Bryon has organized golf tournaments and other fundraising events for the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign. The Edward D. Grant volunteerism award was presented to John Thibodeaux. John donates over 500 hours a year to the YMCA Track program. The YMCA's highest honor award, the Red Triangle, was presented to ExxonMobil for their one million dollar donation for the construction of the Howell Place YMCA. A special "spirit of the YMCA" award, called the Red Heart Award was given to Randy Haddad. Randy has been a volunteer of the YMCA for over ten years. The night also included a surprise visit from NFL Saints Players, Randall Gay and Tracy Porter, both supporters of the YMCA of the Capital Area.
Special Video clips of members and volunteers highlighted the event as they spoke about how the YMCA has made a positive impact on their lives! Spring flowers provided by Rickey Heroman and "invest in you" piggy banks were the centerpieces for this special occasion.