The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties stands for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

"We put Christian principles into practice," Kim Ketcham, marketing and communication director at the Lakewood YMCA, said.

"Our mission is health - in spirit, mind and body."

The YMCA, or initially the Young Men's Christian Association, is a non-profit 501c(3) that has since 1883 been dedicated to serving the communities in which it exists.

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties touches the lives of over 100,000 people each year.

Membership in the YMCA is open to all people, and it welcomes women, men, girls and boys of all ages, races, ethnicities, religions, abilities and financial circumstances.

The four values we stress are caring, honesty, responsibility and respect," Ketcham said.

She also pointed out that the YMCA works well with military members and their families.

"We are actively engaged, and we strive to be a community resource to the community-at- large and the military community," Ketcham added.

One of the new programs designed with the military in mind is called Life University.

It provides opportunities to learn more about relationship and marriages, blended families, personal finances and spiritual growth.

"It's timely, and it helps individuals cope with challenges," Ketcham said.

While the YMCA offers hundreds of programs that promote physical, mental and spiritual well-being, it also offers financial assistance to families with a demonstrated need.

"We work with families who need help," Ketcham added.  "Our child care programs offer a military discount."

The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties receives some of its funding from the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC).

The Lakewood YMCA's CFC donation number is 48231.

"We are an invaluable resource to the community, and we greatly appreciate and value your help," Ketcham concluded.

For more information, visit www.ymcapkc.org/lakewood or call (253) 584-9622.