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Y on the Fly

4 June 2018

By: Dayton Daily News

The YMCA of Greater Dayton recently christened a new van aimed at bringing summer camp-style fun to children across the Miami Valley, according to a news release.

 

The organization has announced the launch of the “Y on the Fly” program, which will run from June 4 through Aug. 6.

 

Dale Brunner, the president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Dayton, said the "Y on the Fly" van will bring a mobile version of the YMCA summer camp experience to locations designated as "food deserts" and will provide the neighborhoods with fun activities and healthy snacks to children. 

 

"The YMCA believes that every kid deserves a healthy, vibrant summer where they can learn and grow in a safe environment," he said. "The YMCA provides kids from all over Dayton a healthy, educational summer camp experience through our residential and day camp programs. But now, thanks to the 'Y on the Fly' program, we will be able to deliver those same experiences to many more kids in areas where we don't have a physical building to host them." 

 

The van will make two stops per day every weekday, and will offer at least 60 minutes of activities at each stop, with the remaining 30 minutes spent preparing healthy snacks with the children. The van will be loaded with toys like balls and hula hoops, and make stops at libraries, parks and community gardens, among other locations. 

 

Additional sponsors, such as PNC, Dayton Power & Light, Dayton Children's Hospital, and Public Health-Dayton & Montgomery County, have stepped forward to support the YMCA's efforts to expand its reach in underserved neighborhoods. 

 

David Melin, PNC regional president for Dayton, said the bank’s participation stems from their commitment to enriching people’s lives.

 

"Our support of ‘Y on the Fly’ is one of the ways we reinforce our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for area children be helping them live and achieve a healthy lifestyle," he said.

 

DP&L also said their aim is to help bring a positive impact to the community. 

 

“'Y on the Fly' not only brings summer activities and healthy food to these communities, it brings children together in a safe environment in their own neighborhoods,” President & CEO Craig Jackson said. “No child should ever go hungry or be stuck inside with no physical activities; this program addresses both issues and will make Dayton a bright place this summer."

 

SOURCE: https://www.daytondailynews.com/news/breaking-news/mobile-ymca-summer-camp-style-program-start-this-monday/MlpRfqSNk3oHvpwP2rzT7O/