Downey YMCA
by Lorine Parks
Welcome back to Anne Ullstrom, who had not only returned after recovering from surgery, but put on the day’s program for us, about the Downey Family YMCA.
“One of our biggest events of the year will be the Gala Dinner this Sunday,” Anne said. “And the honoree is the Rotary Club of Downey.” Additionally recognized will be Darryl “Hop” Morrison and his wife Karol, as supporters of the Y. Hop is a long-time member of the Rotary Club of Rio Hondo.
The event is a fundraiser with live and silent auctions, and Anne showed us where some of the proceeds will go. First picture showed the recently renovated Camp Round Meadow, located near Lake Big Bear in the oak filled forest near the Santa Ana River and Jenks Lake.
Camp Round Meadow is a traditional week-long residential camp, where core activities include archery, swimming, arts and crafts, hiking and canoeing, as well as high and low ropes courses, teambuilding obstacle course, wrist rockets, music activities, a double racing zip line, climbing wall, and a gaga pit (dodge ball in a circle).
Back at our Downey facility, important programs include “Adaptive Aquatics.” This allows children who are physically unable to do regular swimming activities, to feel they have a place where they can socialize. Pictures showed us boys and girls in harnesses and special flotation devices enjoying themselves in the pool.
“This one is close to my heart,” said Anne as she showed us pictures of Camp Kitaki “Where the Magic Never Ends,” in Nebraska, where Anne grew up.
President Russell concluded the program by reminiscing about his childhood at the Downey Family YMCA, with its high school program, Boy Scout Troop and connections with the Downey Unified School District.