Dear Editor:

With the recent devastation in the Philippines, how can we possibly not appreciate how fortunate we are to live in this state?

November is a time when everyone reflects about what they are thankful for, and usually that consists of friends, family, shelter, food, etc.

While we are thankful for those things, we also remember how thankful we are to have the Y in our community.

As we have passed our half way date for the Boothbay Region YMCA 2013 Annual Fund Drive, we have further to go to reach our goal on the financial schedule and certainly more to go to attain our personal goal of more first time donors. For those of you many, generous souls who have already given, we continue to say thank you and appreciate your support.

A gift of any size helps to contribute in many ways. All donations do add up. All monies raised go to support programs, memberships and financial assistance, so that everyone can use the Y. No one is ever turned away. Remember when the power goes out? Where can you find a warm shower or shelter for you or your family? The Y!

You may donate in memory of a loved one, someone facing a challenge, in honor of someone who has “made a difference” in your life or the community? How about a gift to recognize your child or perhaps local youth who might be budding athletes due to the Y programs, or an artist, a coach or a caregiver? The list goes on and on. Please consider a donation today to change the lives of many in our community tomorrow.

The time is now. There’s still time to donate!

Pam Baldwin and Maddie Rideout
Co-chairs, Y Annual Fund Drive