[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 176 (Thursday, November 17, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2075]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      CELEBRATING THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE YMCA OF DANE COUNTY

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                           HON. TAMMY BALDWIN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 17, 2011

  Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the 125th 
anniversary of the YMCA of Dane County and to honor all those who make 
this institution such an influential part of our community.
  As a component of the greater YMCA system, the Dane County Y 
exemplifies the values of the national organization. The YMCA of Dane 
County is committed to youth development, healthy living, and social 
responsibility. These three areas of focus fuel the numerous programs 
and services the Y delivers to our community. In 2010, the YMCA of Dane 
County graciously spent more than $572,000 in programs that benefit the 
public.
  The YMCA is a place where more than 19,800 youth members cultivate 
skills and gain the self-confidence necessary to become successful and 
positive members of society. Programs like Fill the Gap help youth grow 
by targeting at-risk teens and engaging them in challenging and fun 
activities in safe environments. Furthermore, thirty licensed before 
and after school sites throughout the county care for 1,200 children 
each day. These sites provide the necessary environment to keep 
children learning, engaged, and safe.
  Additionally, the Y's Healthy Living initiative is fighting the 
country's obesity epidemic by encouraging a more active lifestyle. Each 
year, the YMCA reaches over 60,000 people through their wellness 
programs and provides a safe and clean environment for exercise. 
Furthermore, various exercise classes and access to pools and 
gymnasiums help encourage our community to stay fit and healthy.
  The YMCA of Dane County also works towards producing hard-working 
members of society with its social responsibility programs. The YMCA's 
mission strives to ensure that every person has the opportunity to 
learn, grow, and thrive, regardless of socio-economic status. One of 
the many ways the Dane County Y fulfills this mission is by providing 
support, educational, and training services to unemployed citizens, 
which are desperately needed in the tough economic times we face today. 
This clear and determined dedication to improving the lives of 
community members not only physically, but also emotionally, highlights 
the importance of the YMCA of Dane County.
  The Lussier Family East, Northeast, and Lussier Family West branches 
of the YMCA of Dane County work in conjunction to better our community 
and provide valuable resources and support. Along with the three 
branches, the four youth centers and numerous child care locations 
create a strong network dedicated to improving the lives of the members 
of our community.
  I admire the mission and efforts of the YMCA of Dane County and look 
forward to many more years of service to our community. I proudly join 
those across Dane County, the entire state of Wisconsin, and our great 
nation in celebrating the 125th anniversary of the YMCA of Dane County 
and in thanking the members, employees, volunteers, and donors for 
their exemplary service to our community.

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