In August, our community will have a beautiful new indoor pool at the Bayside Y, with more lanes, a dedicated pool space for families and older adults, new locker rooms and other general improvements. 

Many members of our community have or will provide gifts to our Capital Campaign to support the construction of this wonderful new facility.  With our outdoor pool available for summer memberships, and childcare for Out-Of-School time as well as summer camp with swimming lessons and specialty programs like kayaking and horseback riding, our new Y will be an even more vibrant part of our Bayside community!

This letter is, however, about helping our neighbors.  Every year, folks in our community help their East Bay neighbors afford membership or a program at the Y.  While it may sometimes seem that we live in a community where this kind of assistance isn't needed, that's not true.  In 2012, we helped 300 neighbors through community gifts of over $100,000 via our Annual Campaign.  Every penny donated went directly to help.  

We'd like to introduce you to some of the neighbors that your gifts have helped and to share their personal stories: 

• My name is Sam. Since my wife died a few years ago, you have become like family to me. When I miss a day, you worry about me and even call to see if I am all right. Thank you!
• My name is Cindy. Signing up for the Livestrong Cancer Survivorship program at the Y is one of best decisions I've ever made.
• My name is Vicki. When I came into the Y, I didn't know how I was going to manage looking for a job without having someone to watch my children. You helped my kids attend Camp Manitoo while I searched for work.
• My name is Austin. I was very overweight and had trouble breathing. At school, kids made fun of me. My mom brought me to the Y's JOIN for Me Healthy Weight for Kids & Teens. I have lost 20 pounds, and I can wear jeans now!  Thank you.

Would you consider joining us in a gift to the Y to support neighbors that need help in 2013? 

As Co-Chairs of the Annual Campaign, we have both made our personal gifts and ask that you give whatever you can. Small or large. Every bit helps.  Pledge cards are available at the Y. Or, you can call us at 245-2444, and we'll happily accept your pledge information over the phone. 

Many thanks,

Hilary Neu and Andrew Robinson, Co-Chairs, Annual Campaign for the Bayside Y