With final numbers tallied after their month-long Community Support Campaign led by Seal Beach Police Chief Joe Stilinovich, the Youth Center in Los Alamitos successfully reached their goal of raising $200,000 in donations to support the center.
The Youth Center reached their goal due in part to the amazing leadership by Chief Joe and the support of the Lions Club, Affliction, Griffins’ Grill and Brew Kitchen Ale House.
Campaign funds go directly to vital programs and activities for the year ahead including the Youth Center’s After School Program, elementary school music program, Every 15 Minutes teen drunk driving determent event, the Leadership Academy and Summer Camps. Also, scholarships awarded to families in need are made available due to campaign funds raised.
“When busy people who absolutely have no time come together to raise funds for something that’s dear to their heart and the community, they always succeed as they did this year,” said Youth Center Executive Director Lina Lumme. “I want to thank all the campaigners and supporters especially Chief Joe for stepping up and helping us to raise funds so we could keep our doors open for all the families who need us.”
With the uncertain future of the Youth Center, Chief Joe said he knew it was critical to reach and surpass their campaign goal.
“The team and community are responsible for the success,” he said. “This year we were able to activate many communities to work as a team. Residents and businesses in Seal Beach, Rossmoor, Los Alamitos, Cypress and Long Beach all worked hard.” He lauded his division leaders Shawn McLean, Brandon Petersen, Scott Newton, Karen and Eric Frankenberg, who have been involved for years with the Youth Center, crediting them for their dedication and leadership in making everything possible.
A passion for the Youth Center and telling their story is what motivated Campaign Division Leader Scott Newton to successfully raise $25,000. “Inspiration comes from knowing how important The Youth Center is to our community and our kids,” he said.
Youth Center programs and operations manager Julie Rubin will be braving an ocean swim challenge thanks to donors giving $1,000 or more to her campaign efforts. “I set out to design a big challenge for myself in doing the ocean swim because the kids mean so much to me,” she said. “At first I was hesitant but I am now ready for the challenge.”
“This year’s response to the campaign from parents, friends, family and community supporters to the needs of the Youth Center was absolutely amazing. We are very grateful,” she said.
Although the month-long campaign has officially come to a close, The Youth Center accepts contributions year-round. If you are interested in making a contribution, please contact them by calling 562-493-4043 or visit their website at www.theyouthcenter.org.
