YWCA Campers Prepare to Swim in New Pool

HARRISBURG, Pa., June 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The YWCA of Greater Harrisburg announced today that its Camp Reily pool renovation project has been completed and is ready for 2011 campers. Last June, YWCA staff reported that their fundraising goal of $190,000 in support of major repairs to the pool had been exceeded. Appeals to local foundations, organizations and individuals resulted in more than $204,000 of contributions.

Highmark Blue Shield helped lead the efforts of many community donors, contributing $100,000 toward the project's goal. "Highmark Blue Shield is thrilled that the project is finished and the campers can look forward to a summer of swimming," said Susan Hubley, Highmark Blue Shield director of community affairs. "It is important that children are given the opportunity to practice good health and fitness in safe environments, and we applaud the YWCA for all of its efforts to ensure just that."  

Camp Reily is a valuable part of the Fishing Creek Valley's undeveloped landscape. It has provided a safe, healthy and fun camp experience for low-income children in the Harrisburg area for decades. More than 150 children are expected to participate in this summer's camp program. One of the most popular activities included in the summer camp experience is the use of the swimming pool. Each summer, many of the campers learn about water safety and, more importantly, how to swim.  

"In the past 10 years, the condition of the pool has been a source of concern. With the help of Highmark Blue Shield, local foundations and individual donors, we have finally had the opportunity to upgrade the swimming pool so that the children we serve can safely continue to enjoy our most valuable resource at Camp Reily," said Tina Nixon, YWCA of Greater Harrisburg chief executive officer. "On behalf of the children and families who will enjoy the pool for decades to come, we offer our heartfelt thanks!"

The majority of children who attend the camp come from low-income, single-parent families in inner-city Harrisburg. About 20 slots are reserved for children who have special needs and receive services from Keystone Family Services.

The McCormick Family Foundation, the Donald B. and Dorothy L. Stabler Foundation, the Harrisburg Kiwanis Club, Josiah W. and Bessie H. Kline Foundation, the Derry Presbyterian Church and more than 30 individuals from the community contributed generously to the project.  

SOURCE Highmark Blue Shield