Y in Towson

You are probably all familiar with  today's Hidden Treasure, but what  you might  not know  are  some of it's  hidden virtues! I've always thought of it as a place to go  to exercise, but it is so much more! Last evening my friend Hal Gamber invited me to an event at Cafe Troia in Towson, MD, to learn more about the Y (YMCA). 

Yes, there are buildings located throughout the area. The Orokawa Y in Towson is located at 600 W. Chesapeake Avenue. But their services spread far beyond the four walls of the building. They are committed to contributing to a "stronger, healthier, more connected community for all".

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Y people are for a better us

Here are a few thing you might not know about the Y. 

• 380,000 meals served in Y Head Start and Community Schools  so children can focus on learning and not be hungry.
• 6,400 volunteers give of the their time in community  service.
• 26,800 children and adults given Y Open Doors financial aid or grant support.
• 3,000 backpacks donated so students and go to school feeling confident. 
• Over 300,000 people participate in Y programs and membership enabling a sense of belonging,  purpose and well-being. 
• 2,600 young children  in Y Preschool and Head Start get a solid foundation for school and life. 
• 175 high school students experience civic leadership in Y Youth and Government. 
• 4, 150 youth keep  active and full of happy discovery throughout the summer at Y Camp.
• 105  youth who experience homelessness nurtured and taught life skills. 
• 11,800 seniors engaged  in healthy Y activities that combat disease and loneliness.
• 475 youth supported by caring members who help them feel loved and worthwhile. 
• 9,600 young children taught to swim  and enjoy the water safely.

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With so many programs and services being cut through recently,  it is a comfort to know  that there is an agency providing quality support and community connection! For more information, visit the Y in Towson.