Thursday, August 25, 2016

Do you believe in dreams?

Each year, YMCA’s annual campaign raises funds to help support youth and families through their financial assistance program.  In 2015, the YMCA of Columbia-Willamette Child Care Division provided over $649,000 in financial assistance to participants.

As the largest provider of non-profit early learning and afterschool enrichment in the Portland and Vancouver regional area, YMCA child care programs provide children with a nurturing atmosphere and dynamic curriculum that celebrates individuality, promotes self-esteem and encourages positive social interaction.  Working together with families to make each program a supportive and challenging place for children to grow and develop.

If you’d like to contribute to this amazing program, here’s your chance.  October 22nd, 2016 is the date for the “Night to Believe in Dreams”, benefit Dinner and Auction.  Participating in this event will raise much needed funds for financial assistance for families and youth development programs.  With your gift and support, the YMCA can continue to help our communities grow and flourish by supporting those in need.  No other organization can impact as many people as powerfully as they do every day!
For more information and to purchase tickets go to, www.ymcacw.org/believe-in-dreams.

All kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve.  Let’s mark our calendars for October 22nd and help them “Believe in their Dreams”!

Thursday, August 18, 2016

The Journey of a Single Mother

I applaud mothers everywhere who sacrifice for the wellbeing of their children and especially those raising kids on their own. You or someone you know is a single mom. Struggling with the loneliness of being on your own, every decision is yours and yours alone, every crisis falls on your lap. There’s no one else to help with the teething and terrible twos, sibling fights and night terrors.

Kim Vestal understands the urgent need single mothers have to build friendships and be part of a community. Raising six children on her own, Kim’s passion is to help other single mothers break out of their isolation and find love and support. Four years ago Kim started Extending Grace, “No Single Mom Walks Alone”, a ministry that brings single mothers together to share with each other, provide emotional support and develop friendships. The mothers can also find practical help such as parenting strategies, financial, cooking and nutritional education. Most of all, the mothers are able to encourage one another.

If this speaks to you, or that someone you may know, there is a city wide gathering August 26 th at Central Bible Church, 8815 NE Glisan St, Portland from 6-8pm. Come and be encouraged and embraced, dinner for you and your kids, and free childcare provided for kids 1-12. For more information please contact Kim at 971.998.3824 or email at info@extendinggrace.org.

You are no longer alone!