Community

Rye YMCA makes cards for hospitalized kids

More than 45 children, teens, adults and seniors created 175 cards for the organization Cards for Hospitalized Kids at a Rye YMCA Togetherhood project held on March 19.

Rye YMCA members take a break during the Y’s Togetherhood Project for Cards for Hospitalized Kids. Contributed photo
Rye YMCA members take a break during the Y’s Togetherhood Project for Cards for Hospitalized Kids. Contributed photo

Togetherhood engages YMCA members and community residents in community service projects that have benefited a range of organizations, including Don Bosco Community Center, Bread of Life, The Sharing Shelf and Rye Nature Center. Togetherhood staff advisor Denise Woodin had heard about Cards for Hospitalized Kids through another YMCA and brought it to the attention of her committee. The organization works with a network of hospitals nation-wide to bring cheerful homemade cards to children who are facing serious illness.

Danielle Russo, a teacher at Osborn School, liked the project so much that she shared it with a colleague. Their first-grade classes created an additional 46 cards, which Russo dropped off at the YMCA on the day of the event.

Rye resident Kelly Bourassa chairs the Togetherhood Committee and also coordinated the cards project. She remarked, “This project provided a great opportunity for community members of all ages to come together for a wonderful cause. While making the cards, children and adults were able express their creativity while enjoying quality time with each other. This project was a perfect fit for Togetherhood, as we’re always looking for ways to engage volunteers in fun, meaningful community service.”

For more information about Togetherhood, contact Denise Woodin at denise@ryeymca.org or 967-6363 ext. 101.