YMCA of Greater Seattle president Neil Nicoll credits the success of the annual Partners with Youth Campaign to the 1,370 volunteers across the region, led by campaign chair Craig Kobayashi. The campaign was based on face-to-face appeals with volunteers going to thousands of individuals, corporations, service clubs and foundations throughout the communities served by the YMCA. This year's campaign exceeded the $2,869,400 goal with pledges amounting to more than $2.93 million.

"The bleak stock market news in recent months certainly made the task seem more daunting," shared Nicoll, "but it also strengthened the resolve of our volunteers. They see the results of what the YMCA does in their communities and know the kinds of services we provide kids and families through the Partners with Youth Campaign are more critical than ever, as families' budgets are stretched even further by rising energy costs and layoffs."

The Partners with Youth Campaign helps eliminate financial barriers to membership and participation in programs for thousands of children, teens and families. The YMCA of Greater Seattle has 15 branches, three camps and more than 200 program sites. The 124-year-old nonprofit organization serves all of King and south Snohomish counties.