Program areas at WS-YMCA
Youth Development - Our YMCA is committed to nurturing the potential of every child and teen. We believe all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. That is why we help young people cultivate the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health and educational achievement. Our YMCA programs, such as childcare, preschool, youth sports, and day and overnight camps, serve thousands of children annually and offer a range of experiences that enrich social-emotional, cognitive and physical growth. Expenses include subsidies and direct financial assistance that make participation possible for all the young people we engage. The Y has significantly invested in our facilities to increase capacity to serve children, including a new building at Camp Chickami. We also purchased a second building and opened a new branch of our Y featuring expanded youth sports, aquatic safety and health and wellness offerings.
Social Responsibility - Our YMCA believes in giving back and supporting our neighbors. We have been listening and responding to our community's most critical social needs for more than 140 years. YMCA programs, such as subsidized housing, are examples of how we deliver training, resources and support that empower our neighbors to effect change, bridge gaps and overcome obstacles. In 2020 we engaged thousands of YMCA members, participants and volunteers in activities that strengthen our community and pave the way for future generations to thrive. The pandemic required us to think differently about how we can support the needs of our community. Through internal efforts and partnerships, we provided food and food deliveries to those individuals and families struggling with food insecurity. We reached out to all of our members to ensure they were receiving the services they needed to keep them safe and healthy and directed them to partners when appropriate.
Healthy Living - The West Suburban YMCA is committed to improving America's health and well-being, community by community. We bring families closer together, encourage good health and foster connections through fitness, sports, fun and shared interests. As a result, over 10,000 people in our community are receiving the support, guidance and resources they need to achieve greater health in spirit, mind and body. In addition, we offer specialized programs for cancer survivors, those with disabilities and older adults. This is particularly important as our nation struggles with chronic disease and obesity, families wrestle with work/life balance and individuals search for personal fulfillment. Our programs are accessible, affordable and open to all faiths, backgrounds, abilities and income levels. We opened a second full service YMCA in Newton to expand access to people of all ages. In the first three months of operation, we are already serving 3,000 more members at this facility.