The Eugene Family YMCA

Natalie MinuzzoJ352

Mission Statement - “The Eugene Family YMCA strengthens our diverse community by offering programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.”

About the YNon-profit organization that positively impacts

people of all ages, races, faiths and economic backgrounds.

In 1909 the first YMCA building was built in downtown Eugene at 1076 Willamette St.

The Eugene YMCA is one of the largest service organizations in Lane County.

National problem – Majority of U.S public school students are in poverty

For the first time in at least 50 years, a majority of public school students across the country are considered “low-income”, according to a new study by the Southern Education Foundation.

Highest rates are concentrated in Southern and Western states.

Local problemIn 2010, 53.7% of public school children in Lane

County were eligible to receive free/reduced price lunches during the school year.

In 2014, more than 5,200 students have made their way to various school supply dispensaries in Springfield.

The achievement gap between rich and poor has grown over the last half century. A few programs in our schools help fill some of the gaps but are limited due to funding restrictions.

What can the Eugene Family YMCA

do to help?

YMCA Back to School Carnival and Fundraiser

Free community event in the YMCA parking lot at the end of August.

Carnival games, food and activities for families.

Bins for people to donate school supplies.

Tables where people can donate money (all proceeds go to purchasing school supplies).

Sponsored event: Will match how many donations the YMCA receives from the fundraiser.

NewsworthinessIMPACT: This problem impacts people nationally

as well as in Lane County.

HUMANITY: This problem effects many families in Lane County and is an on-going issue.

Media outlet: PBSJason M. Breslow

“By the Numbers: Childhood Poverty in the U.S.”

Angle to take: opportunities to film and interview families, plenty of B-roll footage and a prominent national news story.

Media outlet: Eugene Weekly

Anne Bridgman

“Children in Poverty: Education suffers when kids are hungry, stressed”

Angle to take: Opportunities to talk to families, get quotes from them and YMCA employees putting on the event.

Media outlet: The guardian

Jana Kasperkevic

“More than half of US public school students live in poverty, report finds”

Angle to take: Mention how the YMCA is making an effort to help families in need and there will be opportunities for quotes and photos.

Questions?