You will see more than people working out this Thursday evening at the Wayne Densch YMCA Family Center in Pine Hills. You will hear music and see some young people marching to the beat.

That’s when organizers plan a Youth Scholarship Campaign kick-off event, featuring performances by the Meadowbrook Middle School Band, food and a ton of fun. They’re calling it a pep rally to get people excited about giving to the campaign, raising money for  some young people and their families to attend the Y and take part in the many activities offered there. The goal is to raise $67,500 this year, which will cover scholarships for 300 families.

The event, scheduled from 6-8 p.m. in the gymnasium at the Y, will give attendees a up close and personal look at the impact the organization has on the lives of young people, volunteers, seniors and staff members.

A staff member talked about the impact of the many Y programs on residents during a recent board meeting and how important it is to reach the young people in the community who need something to do.

“In our middle and high schools there may be 100 students trying out for a team and maybe only 15 make it,” said Deborah Allen. “They need to feel [like they’re] a part of something too. They want to play. We need this place for them.”

You may not be able to volunteer at the center or mentor one of the youth but you may be able to do something: donate money and support this effort.

The Wayne Densch YMCA is located at 870 North Hastings Street, Orlando, FL 32808. For details about this Scholarship Campaign Pep Rally, call: (407) 299-4350.

© Orlando Community News, 2013