Congressman Pete Visclosky visited the Southlake Family YMCA to get a firsthand look at the Summer Camp Program that demonstrates the Y’s work to nurture the potential of youth, improve our communities’ health and give back to our neighbors in Northwest Indiana. During the visit, Congressman Visclosky saw how the campers spend their day in full-day camp where the youth have a blend of academic experiences and recreation as they focus on the YMCA’s core values of honesty, caring, respect and responsibility.
“YMCA summer camp supports the social-emotional growth, cognitive development and physical well-being of kids,” says Laurie A. Halaska, CEO of Crossroads YMCA. “In our camps, kids are in a welcoming environment where they can belong, they’re building relationships, developing character and discovering their potential. We really encourage parents to give their kids the gift of camp to keep their kids active and engaged throughout the summer.”
Crossroads YMCA branches serve over 1,200 kids in Lake County each summer through our Preschool, Day, Adventure, and Junior High camps. After the summer, the Y is a leader with preschool and school-age childcare programs. The Crossroads Y locations in Crown Point, Griffith, Hammond, and Whiting help over 550 kids get ready for a life of learning through academic preschool. Griffith, Hammond, and Whiting Ys deliver before/after school childcare to over 700 kids—who enjoy structured activities each day including gym, art, outdoor play/games, character building, and health & nutrition.
Congressman Pete Visclosky was greeted by Laurie A. Halaska, CEO of Crossroads YMCA; Chris Mallers, Executive Director of Southlake Family YMCA; Jill Schaffenberger, Marketing Director of Crossroads YMCA; Taylor Stewart, Summer Camp Coordinator; Kelly Pallanti, Regional HR Director.
Congressman Visclosky has advocated for the Y by:
Voting for legislation that supports federal investments in after school and summer learning programs, including the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) program, the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) program, and Head Start and Early Head Start programs. These programs support the Y and their essential role in the Northwest Indiana community to increase educational opportunities and promote the development of critical skills for our future leaders.
For more information about Crossroads YMCA or our Griffith, Hammond, Southlake, or Whiting branches, visit crymca.org or contact Laurie A. Halaska, CEO at 219 750 1082.