National Grid Volunteers Lend a Hand to Westwood YMCA

National Grid Volunteers Lend a Hand to Westwood YMCA

Over 90 Employees Clean Up 60 Acres Just in Time for Camping Season

COVENTRY (May 7, 2018) — The Westwood YMCA, part of the YMCA of Pawtucket family of branches, recently applauded the efforts of National Grid volunteers, who braved frigid temperatures to beautify 60 acres just in time for camping season. The clean-up was held in celebration of Earth Day as part of an effort to improve the overall experience of young campers in Rhode Island this summer.

“We are overwhelmed by the tremendous support and generosity of National Grid,” said Mike Norklun, Executive Director of the Westwood YMCA. “Their employees battled a brutal wind chill off the lake that day, yet all volunteers remained upbeat and committed to making a difference. Our campers this year will directly benefit from their efforts.”

The day began with welcoming remarks from Bill Flaherty and Lori Spangler of the Community and Customer Group. Armed with work gloves and tools, employees then began their assignments for the day. Improvements included: clearing the campground of trees, limbs, and brush; painting the interior of camper cabins; painting the exterior of the campground bathhouse; staining a dozen picnic tables; painting 600 feet of fence railing; digging post holes and creating a fence as a perimeter for the waterfront area; and bringing in heavy equipment to insert 6 electrical poles on the nature trail and creating two new ropes courses for camper team building activities.

“At National Grid, environmental stewardship and improving our communities are important values for us,” said Flaherty, Director of Community and Customer Relations at National Grid. “Camp Westwood is a key staple for recreation in Coventry and greater Rhode Island and we were thrilled to have our volunteers help get it ready for this summer’s visitors.”

About the YMCA

The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Across the U.S., 2,700 Ys engage 22 million men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Anchored in more than 10,000 communities, the Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. The YMCA of Pawtucket is comprised of five branches across the state: Pawtucket Family YMCA and Heritage Park YMCA Early Learning Center in Pawtucket, MacColl YMCA in Lincoln, Westwood YMCA in Coventry and Woonsocket YMCA.

To learn more about Westwood YMCA, please contact Mike Norklun at 401-397-7779 or email mnorklun@ymcapawt.org.

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