“I am writing to tell you how much I appreciate the generous financial assistance that I have received from Y-Guides, without which I would not have been able to keep making memories with my daughters. The year 2008 started badly for my family, with me out of work and some serious health issues with my wife making the financial strain extreme. I knew we had to make cuts, and we made some hard decisions. But I remembered that at meetings you clearly said that money should not stop us from sharing special times with our kids. I knew that the only way for my family to keep going in Y-Guides was to ask for help, which is never an easy thing. I want to thank you for making it natural and okay when I spoke to you about the help I needed. You made it easy and it didn’t damage my pride. And in a pretty bleak year, one of the few bright spots was the wonderful memories my daughters and I made, and continue to make, through Y-Guides.”

“Thanks so much for your help. It means a lot. Likewise, Y-Guides has meant a tremendous amount to our family. This goes back to when my father and I were in the Indian Guides when I was a boy. I have vivid memories of some great activities we shared together. Naturally, when kids came of Y-Guides age, we formed a tribe and began to make our own memories. I have 3 kids who have all grown up in the Meckcha Federation. The two older 5^th year graduates are now in High School and the youngest is in his 5^th year with Y-guides. One of the many lessons we try to teach our kids is to care for others and give back to the community. I am greatly appreciative to the Y-Guides organization for a number of reasons not only for the fun, the activities, and the memories, but also for the values that it has helped me to instill into my children. Thank you for your assistance in our time of need. Believe me when I say it will not be forgotten.”

“I just wanted someone to know, I am so thankful for the YMCA and its programs that strengthen families. Y-Guides has been a tremendous part of my two kids lives. It creates an environment where I can connect with my child, with other parents and kids with the same goals, and build special memories. I so appreciate how the Y gently weaves in the faith elements as well. Also, I have a great appreciation for the financial aid the Y has provided so that we can even participate in Y guides. If it were not for the financial aid that the YMCA provides, we really could not participate in the program. The financial aid not only helps me and my kids to stay plugged into the Y experience, but also takes the pressure off other finances and allows us to stay focused on helping others in our ministry/non-profit work."

"In 2004 my oldest son and I joined Y-Guides and have been a part of a great tribe, now in their 5^th year and still intact. In summer 2006 my daughter was hospitalized twice with surgeries and in October I suffered a sports injury that put me out of work for short while and ultimately leading to a new career. We were financially struggling but made it through the end of the year staying involved. My pride and desire to continue making great memories with my son kept me active. In fall 2007 it was time for my twins to get involved, facing the cost of three tribes and three longhouses was frightful and cause for a tremendous amount of disagreement in an already stressed household. I was at the point of making a commitment to my children and their future memories or postponing involvement for another year."

"I was just getting ready to join the Y-Guides with my daughter when I got laid off from my job. I went to the first meeting, but didn’t think I would be able to join due to the eventual costs. But then one of the other dads told me that in addition to helping families with regular YMCA fees they also help families in need with special programs, too, such as the Y-Guides. I then contacted the office who told me that yes, help with the fees for the Y-Guides were available. I was very excited because my daughter was really looking forward to joining. Since my daughter and I have joined the Y-Guides we have had some great experiences and I really appreciate the time I get to spend with her. Thank you so much to the Y-Guides for helping me out in my time of need. When I get back on my feet I would like to give back to the program and perhaps help someone else in need. I highly recommend this program to any dad who wants to enjoy special times with their daughter or son."