NATIONAL PENN MAKES $29,000 DONATION TO FREEDOM VALLEY YMCA

National Penn announced today a $29,000 donation to Freedom Valley YMCA based in West Norriton, PA. The donation was made under the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program, through which National Penn Bank and its divisions are contributing more than $350,000 in 2010.

The educational contribution will go to the Freedom Valley YMCA’s Financial Assistance Program and will be used to support pre-kindergarten (pre-K) scholarships available to local qualified families. The YMCA offers state approved curriculum, character development programs and food programs.

The programs are in well-equipped learning areas through four of its locations: Audubon YMCA Early Learning Center, Phoenixville YMCA Child Care Center, Pottstown YMCA Child Development Center and Spring Valley YMCA Early Learning Center. Children also participate in field trips, special in-house events, foreign language instruction, swimming and music lessons and physical education through indoor and outdoor play time.

“The quality of childcare provided by the Freedom Valley YMCA and our commitment to providing this needed service to all, regardless of their financial capability, are the foundations upon which our YMCA operates,” said Jay R. Schaeffer, President and CEO of the Freedom Valley YMCA. “National Penn’s support is very helpful to us to continue these services for so many deserving families,” Schaeffer said.

Formed January 1, 2008 as a result of a merger between the Phoenixville Area YMCA and the Family YMCAs of Pottstown & Upper Perkiomen Valley, the Freedom Valley YMCA is the fourth largest YMCA in Pennsylvania serving over 40,000 members. The branches of the Freedom Valley YMCA provide opportunities to build family relationships, reduce stress, and improve health, in addition to vital services such as affordable, quality child care and summer day camps.

“Being a community partner and providing our youth with educational opportunities is of great importance to us. National Penn is proud to be an ongoing supporter of the Freedom Valley YMCA, where children receive quality education in a caring environment,” said Timothy Day, president of National Penn’s Central Region.

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