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Alliance Dinner Honors Youth |
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The New Jersey YMCA State Alliance (NJYMCA) hosted their annual Dinner on Thursday, October 1, 2009 at the Forsgate Country Club, Jamesburg. The event brought together local legislators, community members, and YMCA staff to recognize the efforts public policy maker and volunteers of the 42 YMCAs from across the state.
The 2009 “Spirit of the YMCA” Award was presented to legislators Assemblyman Bramnick, Senator Sweeney, and NJ State Commissioner Heather Howard. “Friends of the YMCA” and youth volunteers were also recognized for their commitment to the YMCA and its mission.
The event’s highlight showcased statewide initiatives including Healthy U, Youth & Government, and the 7th Grade Initiative.
In the past year, nearly 18,000 youth were involved with Healthy U. The program, a partnership between the YMCA and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, is critical in fighting the childhood obesity epidemic through promotion of healthy activity and nutrition education.
Over 350 New Jersey high school students participate in Youth and Government, a model legislature program that culminates in a three day conference at the New Jersey State House.
The YMCA 7th Grade Initiative offers complimentary membership to 7th graders in an effort to encourage and support healthy lifestyles through active physical activity. Since its inception, hundreds of 7th graders have joined their local YMCA across the state.
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