MEMBERSHIP OF 1000

Dominion, Volume 32, Issue 256, 27 July 1939, Page 6

MEMBERSHIP OF 1000

Growth Of Y.M.C.A. In Wellington For the first time since pre-depression years the membership roll of the Y.M.C.A., Wellington, had reached 1000, according to an announcement made at a meeting of the 'board of directors of the association on Monday night. Mr. R. H. Nimmo presided. The increase in numbers was shown largely in the suburban boys’ groups, in which 181 boys were taking part weekly in a regular club programme aiming at all-round development, in seven outlying districts. It was hoped to extend this work in other suburbs as facilities became available. The programme, both for boys and adults, in the main building, was at the peak of interest, and at times, because of pressure of space, there was difficulty in providing accommodation for the various groups. The main feature of the gymnasium programme for the previous month had been the national men’s basketball championship, in which ten provincial teams had taken part. The adult education features, and adult programme generally, were being availed of by large numbers. A strong committee was providing for the recreational and spiritual interests of the 80 young men in residence. Regret was expressed at the impending departure of the Rev. J. R. Blanchard, who has 'been a vice-president and director of the association for a number of years. The directors stood in silence in token of respect to the memory of the late Mr. C. E. Dowland, who was prominently associated with all branches of the programme in former years. It was reported that the financial campaign recently conducted had shown a gratifying measure of success, and the sum received, well in excess of £5OOO, was said to be a most encouraging result in view of the uncertainty of outlook in business circles. A praiseworthy feature of the effort had been the ready manner in which more than 200 association members and friends had given their assistance in the soliciting organization, and it was gratifying to note the high standing of the Y.M.C.A. in the community as shown by the sympathetic response from those approached.