WHEREAS, The youth of our state deserve programs that are supportive, nurturing, and serve as a foundation for a life of service and generosity; and
     WHEREAS, The first Western Washington chapter of the Catholic Youth Organization was founded in 1951 and became affiliated with the United Way in 1960; and
     WHEREAS, The Catholic Youth Organization's mission is to provide opportunities for youth to develop strong moral character, self-worth, interpersonal competence, and community empathy; and
     WHEREAS, The organization currently serves more than 15,000 youths locally per year; and
     WHEREAS, Catholic Youth Organization programs are available to all children, regardless of their religious affiliation; and
     WHEREAS, The Catholic Youth Organization operates three summer camps in King, Snohomish, and Pierce counties where each year 2,500 campers have the opportunity to explore themselves, make friends, and learn new skills; and
     WHEREAS, The Catholic Youth Organization enriches thousands of lives through programs such as environmental education, athletics, and scouting; and
     WHEREAS, Through new visions such as the future Discovery Lodge at Camp Hamilton, the Catholic Youth Organization will expand the number of programs offered and focus on reaching youths from diverse backgrounds, at-risk youths, and youths with disabilities;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate honor the Catholic Youth Organization for its commitment to enriching the mind, body, and soul of Washington youths; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to Archbishop Brunett and the Catholic Youth Organization's Executive Director Tauno Latvala.