NorthWest Family YMCA to Raise $50,000 in 50 Days

June 15, 2009

COLUMBIA, SC – June 15, 2009 – The YMCA of Columbia is kicking off a campaign to raise $50,000 in 50 days for Justin’s Place, a new, fun and exciting children’s entertainment center at the NorthWest Family YMCA. The son of Kari and Jim Pepper, Justin Pepper was an 11-year old Chapin resident who passed away as a result of a tragic motor vehicle accident on August 14, 2007. The campaign will commence in his memory on Monday, June 15 at 10:30 a.m. when Kari and Jim present the YMCA of Columbia a check for $31,120.00 from the Justin Pepper Foundation at the NorthWest Family YMCA in Irmo. The YMCA of Columbia has committed $50,000.00 to the project leaving an additional $50,000 needed from the community to bring Justin’s Place to reality. The YMCA of Columbia plans to reach this goal in 50 days.

Justin graduated from Chapin Elementary School in May of 2007.  He was kind and caring and always looked out for others.  He was a member of Lake Murray Presbyterian Church’s Youth Program and a supporter of Thornwell Children’s Home where he donated his birthday gifts for several years.  He also worked with the church alongside his Dad and brothers as a volunteer for Good Works.

The YMCA of Columbia is proud to honor Justin’s memory with a great place for children of all ages to gather and play. Through play at Justin’s Place, children will develop the self-esteem, coordination and social skills necessary to grow in spirit, mind and body.

The public is invited to attend the check presentation on Monday, June 15, 2009 at the NorthWest Family YMCA located at 1501 Kennerly Rd in Irmo. For additional information or to make a donation, please contact Wendy Broderick, Director of Financial Development for The YMCA of Columbia. She can be reached at (803) 603-8043 or [email protected].