Foundation Helps YMCA Open Doors

The YMCA Capital View, the only YMCA and one of the few recreational facilities located in Southeast Washington’s Ward 8, recently opened its doors to youngsters with help from a $150,000 grant from the Freddie Mac Foundation.

The majority of the money — $100,000 — is being used for a computer lab for children and seniors at the YMCA’s newest facility, located in the Parklands community. The remainder of the money is providing scholarships for approximately 100 disadvantaged students in the after-school program at YMCA in Reston, Virginia. The check was presented during the YMCA’s Celebration Campaign, an annual gala recognizing YMCA donors and volunteers.

“Today, we celebrate Capital View YMCA, and the hope and opportunity the new center will bring to the children of this community. At the Freddie Mac Foundation, we're proud of our 10-year partnership with the YMCA. Together we are opening doors for children and their families, and strengthening communities," explained Maxine B. Baker, president and CEO, Freddie Mac Foundation.

“We’re excited that the Freddie Mac Foundation has joined us in a commitment to children,” said YMCA President and CEO Angie L. Reese-Hawkins. “We look forward to working with the foundation and forging a continued partnership.”

YMCA Capital View provides before and after-school care to more than 100 youth, including homework assistance and computer instruction. In addition, a Saturday program, “Walk through D.C.,” takes area children on field trips to monuments and other historical sites. During the summer, children can enroll in a variety of fun and educational summer camps, ranging from “Extreme Cheerleading” to “Amazing Architects.” The branch also provides programs to adults and seniors, including aerobics, self-defense, and dance classes.

YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is the 17th largest YMCA in North America. The association operates more than 20 branches and program centers in Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia. In addition, the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington is the largest nonprofit provider of child care in the region.