YMCA Child Care Programs
Honor Iowa National Guard Troops

During the week of April 20th, 2009 YMCA childcare centers in Ankeny, Des Moines, and Waukee will participate in Global Youth Services Day by creating cards and letters of support to Iowa National Guard Troops stationed overseas. Three to four hundred children will gain a fuller appreciation of volunteerism and service to others. Teachers will incorporate this learning component into their existing curriculum while reinforcing the YMCA core values of caring and respect.

Younger students will color special thank you cards designed by the Iowa National Guard. Older students will write letters to our overseas troops thanking them for their commitment to serving our country and keeping us safe at home.

Iowa National Guard troops from Camp Dodge will visit the respective childcare centers dressed in uniforms and arriving in their Hummers. The soldiers will pick-up their letters and cards to deliver them to our deployed troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. This special connection will help kids to gain an appreciation of the sacrifices our troops make and to nurture patriotism. They will understand that their program is part of a global project with other students throughout Iowa and around the world.

Specially designed poster and banners will be created for all classes to serve as a reminder of their GYSD project to be posted in all ten centers. Banners will also be used for marketing and promoting the event while increasing public awareness of the project. Local State Farm agencies will be contacted to maximize community awareness and their generous support of GYSD.

The requested funds will be used to create specially designed materials and compliment the existing YMCA arts and crafts supplies. The awards will be personalized so every child will have a keepsake to remember this special project. Healthy snacks and beverages will be provided to thank the students for their volunteer project.

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