150 Preschoolers Celebrate Graduation at YMCA Family Centers

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., June 5, 2009 - Adorned in Mouse Ear graduation hats, 150 preschoolers graduated from the Central Florida YMCA Family Centers at the Walt Disney World Resort May 30.

Demonstrating an abundance of knowledge the children learned at the centers, the pre-kindergartners chanted songs with much excitement in English and Spanish during their milestone celebration. This year’s ceremony was particularly noteworthy since 43 graduates have attended since 2004, when the first YMCA Family Center opened at Walt Disney World Resort

"We have had a great experience with taking our kids to the YMCA Family Center. They have had wonderful teachers who truly care for them," said Tracy O'Toole, operating labor projects manager at Walt Disney World Resort and proud parent of a YMCA graduate. "It's been great knowing that my children are close to me while I am at work, and I could get to them quickly if needed."

Different from other YMCA Family Centers in Central Florida, the two centers on Disney property offer child care from infancy through school age, with extended hours of operation, from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m, 365 days a year. Both centers on Disney property provide a safe and supervised environment for up to 648 children combined, which helps to balance Cast Members' schedules with quality, flexible and affordable child care.

"The Central Florida YMCA is honored to be a part of this very important service of educating and caring for the children of Cast Members," said Becky Spencer, vice president of Child Development for Central Florida YMCA. "Serving Walt Disney World Cast Members aligns with our commitment to provide a positive impact in the lives and academic performance of young children and the YMCA's mission to improve the lives of all in Central Florida."