The Ventura Family YMCA has received a grant from Autism Speaks which will provide funding for Water Safety & Swim Lessons for children and adults with Autism.
“Learning to swim and safety around water are necessary life skills. We are grateful to Autism Speaks for their financial support and are pleased to partner with them to provide these important lessons and safety tips,” said Mrs. Eads, Support Services and Development Director of the Ventura Family YMCA.
These free lessons are one-on-one and available on a first come, first served basis. Membership is not necessary to qualify. For more information Nicole Eads at [email protected] or 642.2131 x 11.
The YMCA Board of Managers has announced the election of Pattie Braga as its new Board Chair for a 2-year term. 
Pattie has served as a member of the Y’s Board for four years and Chair Elect for one year.
“I was born and raised in Ventura and have a strong sense of ownership for our wonderful community,” said Ms. Braga.
As Board Chair, Braga will lead a board of 21 volunteers and work closely with the Executive Director on many strategic endevors.
The YMCA held a celebration to honor Board Members who have reached milestones in their service on the board.
Ric Ruffinelli was recognized for serving 15 years as a board member and Dan Lyon was recognized for serving on the board for 20 years while Pattie Braga and Cherie St. Jean were both recognized for serving on the board for 5 years.
In addition to honoring these outstanding long term volunteers, the Ventura Family YMCA celebrated outgoing Board Chair, Danielle Brinkman who served 3 years as the Ventura Family YMCA’s Board Chair.
For more information about the Ventura Family YMCA, visit http://www.ciymca.org/ventura/ or call 642-2131.
