ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — Having just crossed a monumental threshold of the 4,000-member mark, the YMCA of Ithaca and Tompkins County is building on strong foundations to bring more to the community.
Currently, they are in the middle of their second program session, of which there are six a year. Offering aquatics programs, health and wellness programs, youth programs, Livestrong programs, and more, the YMCA has “something for everyone to do, from 0 years old to 99 years old,” according to Communcations Director Johnathen Rockwell.
Having just done renovations in the wellness area, getting a new free weight room and cardio suite, the organization is ready to provide resources for wide variety of interests and needs for those in the community.
“The renovations are some of the biggest we’ve had in recent memory, we’ve been able to add a lot to what we offer. In addition to the wellness area, we’re adding a childcare space, which will allow kids to build on what they learn in school and give parents/guardians the ability to have some free time,” says Rockwell.
The YMCA of Ithaca and Tompkins County has different types of memberships to choose from, making it easy for members and non-members to participate in what interests them.
Depending on the spaces available, signing up for a program online without having a membership is an option. Memberships have two tiers, family and individual, and come with perks such as earlier registration, free use of the entirety of the facility, and two free hours of childcare a day.
Having more members than ever before, the organization is looking to go places they haven’t been before.
“This is the strongest Y we’ve had in a while, there’s been an influx of positive energy and lots of growth that allows us to go above and beyond and continue to grow and explore what we can do in the community. We had over 400 kids participate in our Trunk or Treat event last year, which showcases how people have been showing up for the organization and are having fun while doing it.”
Community outreach is a priority for the YMCA, with the following events being planned for the year:
- 3/26: Egg Hunt Swim
- 4/26: Healthy Kids Day
- 6/26: Summer Sizzler
- 10/18: Trunk or Treat
- 12/7: Santa Run
“Now is the best time to join [the YMCA], we’re able to look ahead and do things we haven’t done before. We’re hitting a lot of milestones and have really amazing staff and support from the community. We want to make the Y known as a place where all are welcome, and people can pursue the best version of themselves.”
Registration for the YMCA’s summer camp is now open, learn more about enrollment as well as general information about participating at the Y on their website here.
All photos courtesy of Johnathen Rockwell.
