The Branford Community Foundation, the leader in supporting a variety of local philanthropic needs, programs and services for 35 years, has distributed a $1,500 grant to Shoreline Family YMCA to support the “Athletes Who Say NO” program.

The Soundview Family YMCA opened in 2010 to expand the reach of the Central Connecticut Coast YMCA, a not-for-profit, community service organization dedicated to putting Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. The Y benefits residents in the Branford, North Branford, Guilford, Madison and East Haven communities; however guests from the area and beyond enjoy the facility and related programs.

During summer 2015, the Soundview Family YMCA offered the “Athletes Who Say NO” healthy lifestyle program event as a component to their summer youth Camp. The mission of the program is to inspire children (6 to 18 years old) to find an active and healthy passion and use their desire to constantly improve as a means to keep focused, healthy and on a path for success. By modeling behavior and through example, program founder and professional BMX stunt cyclist Chris Clark presents a high energy “show” by sharing his own story about growing up with a passion for cycling and using it to make friends, stay healthy and avoid challenging peer pressures. He inspires participants with the possibilities one can achieve through hard work, dedication and careful decision-making. Attendance to “Athletes Who Say NO” is free for YMCA summer campers.

The grant award from the Branford Community Foundation will fully fund the 2015 “Athletes Who Say NO” program.