Jennifer Sullivan is the Treasurer of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Rotary Club and lives in Huntington Beach. She is Executive Director of the San Pedro & Peninsula YMCA (310 Bandini St in San Pedro; www.ymcaLA.org/san-pedro-peninsula ), one of 30 YMCA centers in the Greater Los Angeles Area.
She reviewed the many programs of the “Y”, and showed a video of YMCA activities. A major program is the Model United Nations (MUN) for 6th-8th graders to gain leadership experience, learn about global issues, and meet new friends. The MUN program includes meetings Wednesdays 6-7:30 PM at the local YMCA plus a weekend training conference and a 4-day MUN summit.
Other programs include summer day camp, youth & child activities, after-school programs, mentorship, health and exercise classes (from junior swimming to arthritis, balance & mobility), family activities & camps, basketball, soccer, volleyball & other sports. A new program guide for this year is being published.
The YMCA has completed recent facility improvements including swimming pool & exercise machines in its 64,000 ft2 San Pedro health & wellness facility. Its strategic plan includes promoting child & youth development, healthful lifestyles, and social responsibility (volunteerism, financial support, & National Clean-Up Day). Its values include demonstrating honesty, respect, responsibility, & caring. Volunteers and donations are always welcome and needed.