The work of building a YMCA in a community like Martha's Vineyard is plump with partnership possibilities, appreciated by an array of amazing families, and even before we have walls, "rich with enriching activities" for the island's children. That's what I've found in my first few weeks as the Director of the island's After School Program--Treasure Our Island.
There is no long term dedicated space for our YMCA just yet--that should happen in December 2008. But there's already an awesome team in place that provides coordinated support with space and involvement from area schools.
Homework help and tutoring are a "piece of cake" when topped off with healthy, nutritious snacks for the children. The program then brings in "treasures" by way of artists, entrepreneurs, chefs, recreation professionals, puppeteers, musicians, and more, who have become leaders locally and globally in their respective fields.
It all adds up to a healthy, organic approach to the building of an engaging and self-sustaining set of programs that value and utilize home grown talent to nourish and grow home grown kids.
The structure has good form...the walls should be easy.
There is no long term dedicated space for our YMCA just yet--that should happen in December 2008. But there's already an awesome team in place that provides coordinated support with space and involvement from area schools.
Homework help and tutoring are a "piece of cake" when topped off with healthy, nutritious snacks for the children. The program then brings in "treasures" by way of artists, entrepreneurs, chefs, recreation professionals, puppeteers, musicians, and more, who have become leaders locally and globally in their respective fields.
It all adds up to a healthy, organic approach to the building of an engaging and self-sustaining set of programs that value and utilize home grown talent to nourish and grow home grown kids.
The structure has good form...the walls should be easy.
