February 21, 2006

(Aurora/Naperville/Oswego) -- On Wednesday, February 15, the Heritage YMCA Group serving Aurora, Naperville and Oswego communities kicked-off its annual Strong Kids Campaign - one of the most important campaigns for the YMCA as it raises fee assistance money for children and families so they can participate in YMCA programming and services.

The YMCA is holding numerous events to encourage community support throughout 2006. In addition to the Strong Kids Campaign's Heaven on Seven event on March 6th and many other planned events for later in the Spring and Summer, a very special Opera Gala is being hosted by the Heritage YMCA. Viktoria Vizin, a Fry Family YMCA member and Internationally renowned Mezzo-Soprano, will be the featured performer. Vizin is currently preparing for the lead in the sold out season of "Carmen" at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

The Opera Gala takes place on Saturday, March 18th at the Morton Arboretum's Thornhill Center, 4100 Illinois Route 53 in Lisle, IL. The evening begins at 6:30 p.m. with a social hour and will be followed by dinner and a performance by Viktoria.

Please consider joining the YMCA for this special evening or donating to the Strong Kids Campaign. For more information about tickets for the Opera Gala and other planned events, please contact Walter Johnson at 630.420.6275. Please donate to the Strong Kids Campaign, click