It’s going to be a festive affair when YMCA volunteers meet on Thursday, Feb. 9. Upon arrival, volunteer storytellers (campaigners) and their guests will enjoy looking back at the Y of the past. Pictures and video will showcase lives that have been positively impacted by the Y through the decades from the 50’s forward to the present. Following dinner, presented by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, storytellers will hear from some individuals and families whose tomorrows will be made brighter because of their participation in the YMCA today. The annual event sets in motion the 2012 YMCA Strong Kids Campaign.

“We are very pleased that Scott Rix and Geoff Young accepted the challenge of being our campaign co-chairmen again this year,” said Randy Brown, president and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga. “As long-time Y volunteers, both have a firm understanding of the YMCA mission and clear vision of our future and what we can accomplish for our community.”

“The programs and services funded by the Strong Kids Campaign benefit children and families in so many ways,” said Tripp McCallie, director of Financial Development for the YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga. He noted that the money raised benefits Y-CAP, a mentoring program for at-risk youth and other programs such as afterschool programs, academic enrichment programs, Youth Leadership Chattanooga as well as Y memberships.

“No one is turned away from a YMCA program or YMCA membership because of an inability to pay, stressed Brown. “In 2010, over 12,000 participants received over $1.45 million in direct scholarships and program subsidies.”

The goal of the Strong Kids Campaign this year is $450,000.