Dime News
Dime Bank Foundation Presents $5,000 Grant to
Ocean Community YMCA
News Release - July 31, 2008
(Norwich, CT) - Dime Bank Foundation proudly presented a $5,000 grant
to the Ocean Community YMCA's Waterfront Dock project. The Ocean Community
YMCA, formerly the Westerly-Pawcatuck YMCA, was incorporated in 1928 for
the purpose of providing needed human services to the people of southwestern
Rhode Island. Membership now includes more than 13,000 individuals and
the YMCA has recently expanded into Richmond, RI and Mystic, CT.
"Dime Bank Foundation's grant to the Ocean Community YMCA has helped
us tremendously," said Scott Umbel, Camp Watchaug director. "This
grant allowed us to purchase a much needed boating dock. In fact, Dime
was so generous, that we were able to purchase the finest quality materials
so the structure will last for many years. We like the dock so much, that
as others are replaced, it will become the new dock system. We're proud
to say that with Dime's gift, we've combined two of our sites, and now
have 225 campers enjoying summer fun together!"
The Ocean Community YMCA is known for its waterfront activities, but in
recent years, the condition of Camp Watchaug's docks has declined. The
former docking system was 20 years old and severely damaged. In order
to provide a safe and enjoyable experience to campers, the 80-foot dock
had to be replaced.
With this funding, the YMCA was able to rebuild the dock. Campers now
continue to learn aquatic skills including swimming, rowing, canoeing,
kayaking, waterskiing, tubing and much more. The installation of the new
dock extends 10 feet beyond the former installation, allowing greater
program space for equipment.
"Without assistance, the Ocean Community YMCA would not have been
able to operate
all of its youth programs," said Dime Foundation President, James
P. Cronin. "More importantly, without a functioning dock, the safety
of campers would have been compromised. Summer safety remains a community
goal, and we're pleased to work together to keep our kids safe."
About Dime Bank Foundation
In 1998, Dime Bank established The Dime Foundation, enabling the bank
to support
and give back to the communities it serves, providing funding for charitable,
cultural,
literary, scientific and educational non-profit organizations. In its
first year, more than $50 thousand was distributed. Each year thereafter,
the number and amount of grants has increased. In 2007, over $165,000
was disbursed to 47 different organizations. The foundation accepts applications
on a year-round basis. The board reviews requests quarterly. For more
information on Dime Bank, please visit us at www.dime-bank.com and click
on the Foundation link.
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