LET'S RAISE! 
CONNOR AND MARK RITZI LEAD OUR 2021 ANNUAL CAMPAIGN

This month, we will be kicking off our Annual Campaign and are honored to have father and son team, Mark Ritzi and Connor Ritzi serve as the 2021 Chairs. Every day, the Y strengthens communities for kids, adults, seniors and families with programs that protect, teach, connect, heal, nourish and encourage. If you are contacted by a campaign volunteer, please take a minute to hear the Y story and consider making a gift. 

Thank you to our Campaign Volunteers!
Campaign Chairs: Connor Ritzi and Mark Ritzi

Division Leaders:
Julia Hess                               Dave Karp
Jim Mooney                            Jerry Rodenbarger
Jane Szymczak

Campaigners:
Peter Anderson                        Tim Brust                                  Elaine Caporale                        George Carberry
Jim Clarida                              Dave Collins                              Shelbie Detraz                          Jeff Fernandez
Bill Ferngren                            Eric Gibson                               Brad Gottschlich                       Cathy Greenawald
Charlie Greiner                        Matt Harvey                              Kathy Ireland                           Marian Marion
Steve Nicksic                           Clay Patton                               Don Rapley                              Ray Ritzi
Linda Rodenbarger                   John Schoening                         John Scott                               Joe Shepley
Nick Sommer                           Lanie Steinwart                         Matty Whaling                            
Ben and Devin Zimmer

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS FOSTER OPPORTUNITY

       

Avril, Ellyse and Leo (not pictured) work hard around the Y by wiping down machines, cleaning weights, doing laundry and refilling supplies. As part of the vocational Life Skills Program at Valparaiso High School, they not only help to keep the Y safe for members, but are learning skills to use after they graduate. This program is a stepping stone to working independently.

 "I'm amazed at the growth that I have seen during their time at the Y," shares Y Wellness Coordinator, Alyse Kominakis. "When they started, they hesitated to interact and now Ellyse and Avril help answer member questions and Leo lets us know when a machine is not working quite right." 

 Avril, Ellyse and Leo shared that members have been welcoming and staff have been very kind. People will smile, say hello and share praise over a job well done. 

Thank you for helping to make the Y a great place for all kids to enjoy, learn and grow!