This year’s annual Youth Center Community Support Campaign kicks off with Chairperson Gina Phillips leading the way to raise more than $150,000 in 30 days through April 8. She brings with her a strong belief in supporting the Orange County community and working to support local kids.
Gina and her husband Greg have a strong sense of community and a willingness to get involved. Her volunteer work with the Seal Beach Lions Club as well as serving on the boards of the Seal Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Seal Beach Police Foundation have given her insight into what it takes to run a successful fundraiser. Her husband Greg is the president of Run Seal Beach, which gives all proceeds from the race to local recreation programs. “The Youth Center provides excellent programs for all ages and has seen many generations of families benefit from the continued support and involvement from generous donors,” Phillips said. “I’m excited to be a part of such a worthwhile organization, and I hope I can motivate my campaigners to make this year the best yet.
“I believe in the future of our kids and working locally to support them,” she said. “This year, we are rallying the entire community to aid the vital programs that the Youth Center brings to children and families.”
All programs are supported throughout the year by funds raised during campaign time, including the Youth Center’s After School Programs, Every 15 Minutes bi-annual teen drunk driving determent event, Leadership Academy, elementary education Music Program, and Summer Day and Teen Camps. Funding from campaign goes directly toward scholarships for local families in need.
“I know through all of our efforts both great and small, we can help the Youth Center meet their campaign goal and continue their mission of improving the lives of children and their families,” Phillips said.
There will be campaign celebration nights throughout the entire month of March. They include a “Speakeasy Party” on March 16 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Old Ranch Country Club in Seal Beach, the “70’s Party” on March 21 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Alamitos Eye Care studio in Los Alamitos, and the campaign finale “Casino Royale” on April 8 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Youth Center.
“We’re going to celebrate with themed events throughout the entire month to inspire and cheer on our campaigners and supporters,” Youth Center Executive Director Lina Lumme said. “With Gina leading the way, I’m positive we’ll meet or exceed our goals while having a fun time doing it.”
“I believe in what we’re doing and hope to slim down while doing it,” Manley said. “It’s a fun time and I hope to encourage others to join in my efforts to get healthier while helping the kids.”
If you’d like to be a part of the Youth Center’s 2017 Community Support Campaign or make a contribution, please call the Youth Center at 562-493-4043 or visit www.theyouthcenter.org.
