Northbrook Bank & Trust Awards $200,000 to the North Suburban YMCA Phase II Capital Campaign & Scholarship Fund.

Online, April 5, 2010 (Newswire.com) - Northbrook, Illinois-The North Suburban YMCA announced that the Northbrook Bank & Trust has awarded a gift of $200,000 to support the YMCA's Phase II Capital Campaign: Investing in a Healthier Community and the Strong Kids Scholarship Fund.
The gift will be used to build a new, spacious KidZone-a free on-site childcare service available for members using the facility and YMCA employees. In addition Northbrook Bank and Trust will also allocate a substantial portion of the contribution to the Y's Strong Kids Scholarship Fund. The Fund ensures that no family or child is left behind due to the inability to pay for services. The North Suburban YMCA currently provides financial assistance to 1 out of every 6 participants utilizing the Y's services and facilities, awarding over $400,000 in scholarships this past year alone.
"As a community partner of the YMCA, the Northbrook Bank & Trust is a strong and valued supporter of our long-term efforts to help children, individuals and families who do not have the financial means for services such as child care and camp, thrive during this economic turndown," said Howard Schultz, Executive Director/CEO of the North Suburban YMCA. "We are delighted that Northbrook Bank and Trust is expanding its support to offer the children of the community more opportunities for growth. The renovated KidZone will make free child care available for members and accessible for employees who would not otherwise afford it."
The KidZone currently located in the YMCA's lower level will be relocated on the main floor in a prominent airy location with new bathrooms and direct access to the outdoors.
"The Northbrook Bank and Trust and the YMCA share a common goal to find better ways to help our underserved community members - especially our youth - lead better, more holistic lifestyles," said Edward J. Wehmer, President & Chief Executive Officer of Wintrust Financial, Northbrook Bank's parent company and partner in this donation. Northbrook Bank & Trust Chairman and CEO, Richard Rushkewicz added, "We believe this enhanced partnership with the YMCA will complement Northbrook Bank's investment in the families of the YMCA and provide the greatest impact in our targeted communities."
"Our YMCA has touched thousands of lives," said Schultz "and the generous support of our donors plays a big part of that success. We look forward to working with them to help our Y work toward our highest potential in 2010."
YMCAs have long been at the forefront of efforts to improve the health and wellness of individuals, families and communities. YMCAs are also collectively the largest not-for-profit provider of child care, afterschool and youth sports programs in America.
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