(DAVENPORT, IA) - Davenport area athletes will have a unique chance to enhance their competitive swimming skills by working with two swimming champions, Josh Davis and Mark Gangloff. The Scott County Family YMCA Swim Club is pleased to announce that that they will host a Mutual of Omaha Breakout! Swim Clinic on Sunday, May 2, 2010 at the North Family YMCA pool located at 624 W. 53rd Street in Davenport.

The Mutual of Omaha Breakout! Swim Clinic is a unique experience developed by Olympic gold medalist Josh Davis and Mutual of Omaha to inspire and motivate a new generation of swim stars. As an official sponsor of USA Swimming, Mutual of Omaha actively supports the sport on all levels, from local clubs across the country to the National Team. Davis, who earned three gold medals in the 1996 Olympics and two silver medals in the 2000 Olympic Games, is a master clinician and motivational speaker.

The event is a four hour in-water stroke technique clinic from 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM for ages, 8 to 18 year olds. The cost is $60 per swimmer. The swimmers will hear inspiring messages from Olympians Josh Davis and Mark Gangloff. Immediately following, they will hit the water with Davis and Gangloff for in-water demonstration and instruction on swim strokes and techniques. Some participants may even have a chance to test their strokes in a race against the Olympic champions. Concluding the event, the swimming champions will be available for autographs and photos.

Registration for the Mutual of Omaha Breakout! Swim Clinic is currently open. To register, contact Angie Gillespie by phone at 563-391-7771 or E-Mail agillespie@scottcountyfamilyy.org.

About Josh Davis

In 1996, Josh Davis made history as the only man in any sport from any nation to win three gold medals at the Atlanta Olympic Games. Davis made his second Olympic appearance in the 2000 Games in Sydney, where he was elected captain of the USA Men's Swim Team and took home two silver medals. He went on to break the American record three times in the 200-meter freestyle. After two Olympics and five medals, Josh has established himself as an ambassador for the sport and is pioneering the road for the next generation of professional swimmers.

About Mark Gangloff

A two-time Olympian, Gangloff has earned two gold medals swimming in the preliminaries of the 400-meter medley relay at the 2008 and 2004 Olympics. He was also a member of the American record-breaking 400-meter medley relay team at the 2008 Short Course World Championships, and he earned a silver medal at that meet in the 50-meter breaststroke.

YMCA Child Care Earns 5-Star Quality Rating

Scott County Family Y Is Among Few Area Providers To Achieve This Quality Assurance Level

Davenport, Iowa - March 23, 2010 - The Scott County Family Y Palmer Learning Center has earned a level 5 rating from the Iowa Department of Human Services - the highest quality assurance rating the state offers.

The Scott County Family Y Palmer Learning Center is one of only three licensed child care centers in Scott County to receive this rating, showing that the YMCA goes above and beyond state licensing standards.  "We believe that quality is an ongoing process and we continually strive towards maintaining and improving the quality of care we provide, said Deb Gustafson, Executive Director, YMCA Child Care & Family Services.  "This rating shows that our programs and staff are committed to nurturing the whole child, and his or her family, all while making sure they have a healthy and safe environment to grow and learn in."

The Iowa Quality Rating System for Child Care Providers (QRS) is a voluntary program that rates child care providers on quality indicators such as professional development; health and safety; environment; family and community partnerships; and leadership and administration.  Established in 2005 by the state legislature, QRS is designed to make providers aware of the many paths and steps they can take to improve the quality of their care.  The system also offers parents another resource in evaluating and selecting a child care provider.

As Scott County's largest child care provider, YMCA Child Care & Family Services offers a variety of educational programming for children beginning as young as 6-weeks with infant care to toddler and preschool programming. Before and after school child care is also available for children between the ages of 5 and 12.  Each Scott County Family Y child care site is state licensed and staff members receive extensive training and go through rigorous background checks.  Enrollment is open without decimation to any child and registration is first come, first serve.  For more information about the programs and services offered through the Scott County Family Y Child Care & Family Services, call (563) 323-4668 or visit www.ScottCountyFamilyY.org.

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NEW YEARS AT NOON

Bettendorf and Maquoketa Area Family YMCAs CELEBRATE 2010 WITH qca faMILIES!

BETTENDORF and MAQUOKETA, IA - December 15, 2009 - The clock is ticking and soon we will be rolling the calendar over into 2010. Celebrating the coming of a new year is a traditional "adult" event, but not anymore! Quad City area families are invited to attend New Years at Noon on Thursday, December 31 at the Bettendorf and Maquoketa Family YMCAs

"Our New Years at Noon event started out as a small gathering a few years ago and has grown into one of our most popular family events at the Scott County Family Y," said Tony Calabrese, Vice President of the Scott County Family Y.  "For many area families this celebration has become a holiday tradition. Each year we see more and more families join us for the festivities."

Bettendorf's New Years at Noon

New Years at Noon will be held from 10:30 a.m. - Noon, at the Bettendorf Family YMCA, 3800 Tanglefoot Lane, Bettendorf. The event is free for YMCA members and $3 per person for community members. This holiday tradition will include a count down to noon with father time, a balloon drop and party favors and holiday treats. In addition members and guests can also enjoy the area's only indoor aquatic center, which includes a 2-story water slide, zero-depth entry pool with frog slide, dew drop and bubblers.

Maquoketa's New Years at Noon

New Years at Noon at the Maquoketa Area Family YMCA will be held from 10am - 1:30pm, on Thursday, December 31. The event is $5 for YMCA family members and community families. The cost includes a holiday craft, swimming, snacks and a balloon drop at noon. The Maquoketa YMCA is located at 500 E. Summit Street, Maquoketa, Iowa. For more information about Maquoketa event call (563) 652-6566.

The Bettendorf and Maquoketa Family YMCAs are branches of the Scott County Family Y. Other branch locations include : Downtown Family YMCA, 606 West Second Street; North Family YMCA, 624 West 53rd Street; West Family YMCA 3503 West Locust Street, all in Davenport. For more information about the Bettendorf event call (563) 359-YMCA (9622) or visit the Scott County Family Y web site, www.ScottCountyFamilyY.org.

turkeytrot

Scott County Family Y/McCarthy-Bush Turkey Trot Offers Something For Everyone!

Thanksgiving Day Tradition Brings Out The True Meaning of the Holiday In Many

DAVENPORT, Iowa - November 2, 2009 - For many local families, the Turkey Trot is as fundamental to Thanksgiving as stuffed turkey and cranberry sauce. This year will be no different, as more than 1,500 participants are expected to lace-up for the Scott County Family Y/McCarthy Bush's 23nd annual run/walk.  The Turkey Trot is on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26, with the one-mile family fun run beginning at 8:30 a.m., and the 5-mile Run/Walk at 9 a.m., at the Davenport Family YMCA.

"It's truly incredible to see all the different types of people and families who have made this a part of their traditional holiday activities," said Adam Sampson, race director and interim-executive director of the Davenport Family YMCA.  "We see entire families walking the course, pushing strollers, with their dogs on a leash. We see young kids sipping hot cocoa volunteering with their grandparents. And we see some pretty great, elite runners, too."

The Turkey Trot is presented by McCarthy-Bush and is sponsored by the Quad City Times; Iowa American Water Company; Clear Channel Radio; the Cornbelt Running Club and Creative Marketing. The support of these companies ensures that every dollar raised to goes directly to area children, families and individuals who are in need of financial assistance for the YMCA's character-building programs.

Registrations are being accepted at any Scott County Family Y branch, or on-line at www.GetMeRegistered.com.  Prior to race day, the cost for the 1-mile event is $20 per person and $25 per person for the 5-mile run/walk.  Race day registration is $30 per person for the 1-mile and $35 per person for the 5-mile.

Packet pickup and registration will be held at the Davenport Family YMCA, 606 West Second Street, on Wednesday, November 25, from noon to 7 p.m. and on Thanksgiving morning from 6:30 until 8 am. The first 1,500 participants will receive a free Turkey Trot t-shirt and chip timing will be available for all who register for the 5-mile event up through 8:15am on race day.

The Scott County Family Y is one of the area's largest community service organizations.  Serving more than 2-million people in 2007, the Scott County Family Y offers a variety of programs and services focused on the holistic development of children and youth, family strengthening and health and well-being for all.  The YMCA unites adults and children of all ages, faiths, backgrounds, abilities and income levels - proudly serving the Quad Cities for nearly 150 years by building healthy spirit, mind and body for all. For more information visit the Scott County Family Y website, www.scottcountyfamilyy.org.

October 9, 2009 - Davenport, IA - Celebrating life through programs and classes that enhance one's spirit, mind and body is the mission of the Scott County Family Y.  On Saturday, October 24, area cancer survivors and their supporters are invited to attend a wellness open house at the West Family YMCA that's especially designed to do just that.

At 9am, BODYVIVE will celebrate life with an energizing and uplifting combination of easy-to-follow cardio steps aimed at lifting the heart rate followed by creative strength building and flexibility exercises. Live Strong RPM group cycling classes geared towards empowering and energizing the whole body will be held at 8am, 9am, and 10:15am.  Inspiration will also be shared from YMCA members who are surviving cancer in addition to informational displays from area health care providers and cancer awareness organizations. Participants should come dressed comfortably and be prepared to have fun.

This Live Strong event is part of a Community Wellness Open House, from 8am to 5pm, Saturday, October 24, at the West Family YMCA, 3503 West Locust Street, Davenport.  In addition to the wellness classes, survivors and the community are encouraged to take part in other open house events and drawings, all aimed at enhancing total health - your Spirit, Mind and Body. Each person who attends will also receive a Livestrong or a Sur-VIVE-or wristband.

For information about this event, call the West Family YMCA at 563-386-4414 or visit the Scott County Family Y website, www.ScottCountyFamilyY.org.

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Bettendorf Family YMCA Hosts Family-Friendly Fall Celebration

October 8, 2009 - Bettendorf, IA - Quad City area families are invited to experience the tastes and sounds of the German tradition known as Oktoberfest, at the Bettendorf Family YMCA on Friday, October 16.

This family-friendly event is for children of all ages and will celebrate our community's German heritage through live music, food and crafts.  Participants will be able to enjoy a hot bratwurst and sauerkraut along with a fresh draw from the root beer keg.   After their tummies are full they can sit back and enjoy the live music or learn how to Polka.  For those who want to sing along, the YMCA will host a yodeling contest and the kids can learn how to make their own lederhosen.

The Bettendorf Family YMCA's Oktoberfest runs from 5:30-8pm, on Friday, October 16.  Admission to the event is $5 per person or $15 per family.  The YMCA is located at 3800 Tanglefoot Lane, Bettendorf.  For more information call 563-359-9622.

Charity Navigator Awards the Y Its Highest Honor, Three Years in A Row

DAVENPORT, Iowa - August 7, 2009 - The Scott County Family Y is one of the best charitable organizations in the country, that according to Charity Navigator.  The nation's largest independent evaluator of charities has awarded the Y its coveted 4-Star rating for the third straight year.

The Scott County Family Y is the only Iowa Quad City charity to receive this rating; is one of 10charitable organizations in Iowa and one of only 16 YMCAs in the United States to receive this recognition in 2008.  In addition, only 12-percent of not-for-profit agencies receive this rating in consecutive years, according to Michael Smith, Interim President and CEO of Charity Navigator.  "The Scott County Family Y outperforms most charities in America in its efforts to operate in the most fiscally responsible way possible," said Smith.  This four-star rating was awarded to the Scott County Family Y for efficiently managing and growing its finances.

"One way in which the Scott County Family Y expresses its gratitude to our donors is by being a good steward of the gifts that have been entrusted to us - making the most of every donated dollar, said Kellie Esters, Vice President of Fund Development for the Scott County Family Y.  Frank Klipsch, President and CEO of the Scott County Family Y, stated that he was proud that our commitment to donors and our community, fostered by our partnership between our board of directors and staff has been recognized by this prestigious national organization.

Founded in 2001, Charity Navigator uses an unbiased and objective rating system that evaluates the financial health of more than 5,000 charities, with the goal of helping charitable givers make informed, intelligent donation decisions.  All of Charity Navigator's information is available to the public at no cost and can be found on line at www.charitynavigator.org.

Davenport, IA - August 7, 2009 - Helping men, women and children through rough times has been part of the Scott County Family Y's mission since its beginning in October of 1858.  From World War I to the Great Depression through the ups and downs of the Quad City area's economy, the Scott County Family Y has remained true to its belief - no one is turned away due to their inability to pay.

That is more than a saying at the Scott County Family Y especially when it comes to providing a safe and positive environment to area children.  The Scott County Family Y is the largest child care provider in the Iowa Quad Cities.  Serving more than 450 children a week and connecting more than 1,300 family members, the Child Care and Family Services Division is committed to all those it touches.

One of the ways the Scott County Family Y Child Care and Family Services is able to make this connection is through its participation in the United States Department of Agriculture's Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).  CACFP helps the Y insure that nutritious meals are provided, at no separate charge to children enrolled in the following programs: YMCA/Palmer Learning Center, Davenport Family YMCA's Learning Center, YMCA Kid's Club Before and After-School programs at Riverdale Heights Elementary School in Bettendorf and at the Davenport Family YMCA. Meals are provided without regards to race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability and the Scott County Family Y's Child Care and Family Services Division receives partial reimbursement based upon the income information provided by the children's parent or legal guardian.  Eligibility guidelines for reduced price meals are as follows:

Income Eligibility Guidelines for Reduced Price Meals

Effective 7-1-2009 to 6-30-2010

Household Size

Reduced Price Meals

Free Meals

Yearly

Monthly

Twice per Month

Every Two Weeks

Weekly

Yearly

Monthly

Twice per Month

Every Two Weeks

Weekly

1

20,036

1,670

835

771

386

14,079

1,174

587

542

271

2

26,955

2,247

1,124

1,037

519

18,941

1,579

790

729

365

3

33,874

2,823

1,412

1,303

652

23,803

1,984

992

916

458

4

40,793

3,400

1,700

1,569

785

28,665

2,389

1,195

1,103

552

5

47,712

3,976

1,988

1,836

918

33,527

2,794

1,397

1,290

645

6

54,631

4,553

2,277

2,102

1,051

38,389

3,200

1,600

1,477

739

7

61,550

5,130

2,565

2,368

1,184

43,251

3,605

1,803

1,664

832

8

68,469

5,706

2,853

2,634

1,317

48,113

4,010

2,005

1,851

926

For each additional family member add:

+6,919

+577

+289

+267

+134

+4,862

+406

+203

+187

+94

In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-6382 (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

The Scott County Family Y's Child Care and Family Services division is committed to maintaining federal and state standards, which meet the physical, intellectual, emotional and social needs of area children.  All child care programs are licensed by the State of Iowa and staff members are trained to meet initiatives above and beyond licensing requirements.

In addition to following these income eligibility guidelines, the Scott County Family Y Palmer Learning Center has earned a level 4 rating from the Iowa Department of Human Services - one of the highest quality assurance ratings the state offers.

The Iowa Quality Rating System for Child Care Providers (QRS) is a voluntary program that rates child care providers on quality indicators such as professional development; health and safety; environment; family and community partnerships; and leadership and administration.  Established in 2005 by the state legislature, QRS is designed to make providers aware of the many paths and steps they can take to improve the quality of their care.  The system also offers parents another resource in evaluating and selecting a child care provider.

The Scott County Family Y Palmer Learning Center is one of only six licensed child care centers in Scott County to receive this rating, showing that the YMCA goes above and beyond state licensing standards.  "We believe that quality is an ongoing process and we continually strive towards maintaining and improving the quality of care we provide, said Deb Gustafson, Executive Director, YMCA Child Care & Family Services.  "This rating shows along with our participation in the Child and Adult Care Food Program helps show that we arecommitted to nurturing the whole child, and his or her family, all while making sure they have a healthy and safe environment to grow and learn in."

For more information about the programs and services offered through the Scott County Family Y's Child Care and Family Services Division, call (563) 323-5725 or visit the Scott County Family Y website, www.ScottCountyFamilyY.org.

DAVENPORT, Iowa - July 15, 2009 -- Cancer does not only impact the patient. Children, grandchildren, spouses and other loved ones can also be involved in the cancer fight.

Cancer can disrupt families and disrupt their financial situations, making vacations more difficult.

From Aug. 2-Aug. 8, Genesis Health System, Gilda's Club of the Quad Cities and the Scott County Family Y will provide an opportunity for children coping with cancer in their families to enjoy time together at YMCA Camp Abe Lincoln.

Camp Genesis will provide children ages 8-12 with an outstanding resident camp experience with special cancer education programs provided by Gilda's Club and Genesis to help kids better cope with the effects of cancer in their family. The usual $450 camp fee will be donated by Genesis. There will be no charge to campers or their families.

"This camp will provide a much-needed opportunity for kids to just be kids,'' said Sally Werner, Director, Genesis Cancer Care Institute. "This camp will be a relief to parents who may be facing illness and financial concerns because of the illness.  They will be able to share the joy and fun their children and grandchildren are having by enjoying an active, safe camp experience. Camp Genesis will provide a unique camp experience specifically designed for children who are dealing with cancer in their families.''

Camp Genesis will provide youth impacted by cancer in their family with a great Y camp experience - from campfires and canoeing to horseback riding and swimming - at Camp Abe Lincoln. Mixed in with the fun will be 30 minutes of support and education each day from the experts at Gilda's Club. The Gilda's Club staff will help campers cope with the new stresses on their families caused by cancer.

New this year will be a Parent Night for camper parents to let them see what their child or children have been doing. There will be a presentation on Parent Night about the services available at Genesis to serve the needs of cancer patients and their families.

The Genesis Cancer Care Institute in Davenport has transformed cancer care in the region with new cancer-fighting technology, renovated facilities and an expanded focus on treating the "whole'' cancer patient and families.

Gilda's Club has an office at the Genesis Cancer Care Institute and offers its special support services throughout the Quad Cities from the Gilda's "clubhouse" at 1234 E. River Drive in Davenport.

"It is especially difficult for children affected by cancer to talk to their family and friends, to express fears, to ask questions, and explore their feelings,'' said Claudia Robinson, CEO of Gilda's Club of the Quad Cities. "Because it is impossible for children to change things that are beyond their control, it is important to help them identify and express what they realistically do control. Camp Genesis will help children learn to overcome obstacles in a fun and enriching environment.''

"Camp Abe Lincoln is the perfect location for our children to forget about their worries and just have fun,'' said Frank Klipsch, President and CEO of Scott County Family Y. "Camp is where children can step outside of their shells and experience something new. YMCA Camp Abe Lincoln was recently voted Best Camp by River City Readers and offers year-round character development programming at its 250-acre site located just outside Buffalo, Iowa. Camp Abe Lincoln has been serving Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois for more than 85 years.

Anyone who knows a child affected by cancer in their family is encouraged to call Gilda's Club Quad Cities at (563) 326-7504 for more information and applications. Information can also be found at www.ScottCountyFamilyY.org or by calling YMCA Camp Abe Lincoln at (563) 381-3053.

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WHO: Hy-Vee Food Stores, Hormel and the Scott County Family Y

WHAT: 2009 Kids Triathlon

WHEN: Saturday, June 6. Opening Ceremonies - 8am. Race Starts - 9am. Post-Race Party and Closing Ceremonies after the last event.

WHERE: North Family YMCA, 624 West 53rd Street, Davenport, IA. (563.391.7771)

WHY: The Scott County Family Y is please to be the host the 2nd Annual Hy-Vee/Hormel Kids Triathlon. This USA Triathlon sanctioned event is geared towards supporting the next generation of Olympic and features swimming, biking and running competitions for children between the ages of 7 and 14. This event is expected to draw more than 200 children from across Iowa and Illinois and is the largest venue in the region. Hy-Vee/Hormel Kids Triathlons have taken place or will be happening in Omaha, Kansas City, Sioux City and Rochester. Proceeds from the Quad Cities event will benefit the Quad Cities YMCAs.

U.S. Olympic Triathlon Team member - Jarrod Shoemaker will be attending this year's event. Jarrod is currently ranked 1st in the United States and 9th in World. He recently finished 12 in the 2009 Dextro Energy Triathlon - ITU World Championship Series Madrid on May 31.

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