Thank you for your support!

Thank you for supporting us this past year!  We are in the process of reformatting our blog.  In 2013 we will be integrating our blog into our website, therefore we will be shutting this page down.  We appreciate each of your comments and for being one of our followers.  We are have a lot of exciting things in store for the new year so please stay tuned in 2013!  We hope that the new year brings you peace and blessing!

Happy Holidays from your YMCA Family!

Meet Twila!





 Downtown YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program participants

In January 2012, Twila went to her physician for some blood work.  At just 5’3, weighing 320 lbs., she was concerned about hypertension and high cholesterol.  After the lab results came back, she learned that she was at risk for developing type II diabetes.  Her physician gave her six months to lose weight to bring down her blood glucose and A1C levels.  As her physician explained if she did not make changes, she would be diagnosed with diabetes and would have to begin a medication regimen to maintain the diabetes.

Within days of receiving her results, Twila received an email from her employer about a new program being offered at the YMCA of Central Ohio -- YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program.  She called her insurance company to sign up and based upon her BMI and results from her lab work, she was admitted into the program.

A month later, Twila began the YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program.  Armed with weekly meetings for support and information to assist her in transitioning toward a healthy lifestyle, she began to see positive results.  Thanks to water aerobics and swimming, along with changes to her eating habits, Twila began to experience weight loss. 

In July 2012, Twila returned to her doctor and was retested for diabetes.  The results revealed that her A1C had decreased substantially, her blood pressure leveled off and her LDL and Triglycerides had even dropped.  Thanks to positive strides, Twila’s risk for diabetes was significantly reduced.  Today, we are proud to report that Twila is 50 lbs. lighter and continues to make progress.  She plans to be down 75 lbs. by February 2013.

To learn how to reduce your risk for developing type II diabetes or to obtain information about the YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program visit http://www.ymcacolumbus.org/diabetes.

Cancer Survivors Find Support at the Y!

At the age of 26, Miller was diagnosed with cancer. Despite his prognosis, he remained optimistic about being cancer free. He went through radiation to treat the cancer.  During his journey he continued working out at the Y. Two years later, he received devastating news the cancer returned and had spread to his lymph nodes. 

The second time around proved to be more challenging for Miller as he was required to undergo chemotherapy and more intensive treatment to address the illness. At times, Miller felt like his body turned against him and that he had no control. It took him more than a year and a half for him to regain his "normal."  Today, we are pleased to report that Miller is cancer free, remains active at the Y, and he and his wife are expecting their first child together!

According to the World Health Organization, Cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for 7.6 million deaths. Early detection and management is key strategies for preventing certain types of cancers. One of the ways the YMCA of Central Ohio is supporting cancer survivors in our community is through our new initiative, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA of Central Ohio.

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a free 12-week, small group program designed to provide support to cancer survivors throughout central Ohio. The program begins October 23rd and will meet twice a week for 90 minutes at the HILLIARD/RAY PATCH YMCA. This new initiative helps cancer survivors regain their strength to help them return to their normal life or their "new normal." The goal of this program is to help participants build muscle mass and strength, increase flexibility and endurance and improve functional ability. Additional goals include reducing the side effects of therapy, maintaining weight levels, increasing energy levels and self-esteem.  A final goal of the program is to assist participants in developing their own physical fitness program so they can continue to practice a healthy lifestyle as a way of life. In addition to the physical benefits, the program provides participants with a supportive environment and a sense of community with fellow survivors, YMCA staff and members.

In an effort to raise awareness about this program and to sustain funding for the future, the HILLIARD/RAY PATCH YMCA will be holding its first LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Spin-A-Thon on November 10, 2012, from 9:00 am - 12 noon.  Celebrity Instructors include, Jeff Hogan from WBNS-10TV, Andrew Roberts, CEO of YMCA of Central Ohio and many more surprise guests. All proceeds will benefit the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program at the HILLIARD/RAY PATCH YMCA. To purchase tickets, visit livestrongatthey.eventbrite.com. 

For more information about LIVESTRONG at the YMCA of Central Ohio, contact:

Natalie Mamlin

HILLIARD/RAY PATCH FAMILY YMCA

4515 Cosgray Rd.

nmamlin@ymcacolumbus.org

614.334.9622 ext 600

Help Keep Central Ohio Warm this Winter!

In just a little over a month, the doors to our Men and Women's Emergency Winter Shelter Overflow program will open.  Our emergency shelter program provides a safe, warm haven for individuals who have been turned away from traditional shelters during the coldest months.  This season, we will offer 130 warm beds to men and 60 beds to women each night during the cold winter months - November to March.

At the Y, we believe that everyone deserves a warm bed and safe place to sleep.  During the month of October the Downtown YMCA will be collecting blankets to help keep men and women in our community warm this winter.  Our goal is to collect 400 blankets -- but we can't do this alone.

We need your help!  We are asking that you reach out to your friends, co-workers and families to help us collect new or gently-used blankets, and bring them to the Downtown YMCA Member Services desk, located at 40 W. Long Street (on the corner of W. Long and Front St.) during our normal operating hours.  To ensure we're ready, please drop off the donations by October 31st.  For more information, please contact 614.224.1131 or visit our website:  www.ymcacolumbus.org.

So can we count on you Central Ohio???

Please take a moment to watch the video below and see how we helping men and women throughout central Ohio stay warm this winter!

 

 

 

 

 

Doma Finds New Home at The Y!

As the old advertisement goes, before Martin Luther King, Jr. changed the world, he was just another kid at the Y. No one will ever know what the Y did for MLK—help with confidence, provide community, exercise body and mind? And now, in 2012, the Y may be doing something just as great to the people of this country—they house Freedom a la Cart—a social enterprise which teaches survivors of sex trafficking job and nutrition skills. The problem is that while survivors of trafficking have legendary loyalty and terrific work ethic, they have never kept a schedule, managed money, or worked in a job where they weren’t beaten and controlled. The rest of us grew up watching our parents’ careers, got our first jobs at 16, blew our first paychecks on cute jeans and music for driving fast. We messed up and learned work skills eventually. But survivors of sex trafficking didn’t do much of any of that, and they have kids to support and lives to create. After two years of great recovery with the likes of Amethyst, Maryhaven, Southeast and CATCH court, they are ready for the world. But they don’t have the work skills necessary to find, secure a job, let alone a career.

Doma—our little non-profit, doma means ‘home’ in many languages—saw this missing link to success in life, and we started our business. But it was homeless, just like our ladies; we cooked out of a bar, out of church kitchens, desperate for a kitchen we could afford, we searched for months. I know there is a cart-before-the-horse analogy here, but I’m watching my word count.

And here came the Y, marching down the street to help us so much, giving us a beautiful kitchen, an ice machine, making everything clean and lovely. And how have we repaid them? We’ve been late for two catering events. We showed up at one with thirty beautiful salads and no forks. Growing pains, being new to the business, working with an unskilled staff in a new space. We thank the Y by inspiring them to flex their patience muscles. Now we have an expediter, a work-list and checklist for every event, a timeline. Through the Y’s generosity, we are learning the skills that will keep Freedom alive—which is crucial for the well-being of our ladies. Everyone needs job skills, and o how the ladies love being a part of this life.

So right now, in many ways, Freedom is just another scrubby kid at the Y. But ten survivors of sex trafficking have the first job they can trust in their entire lives. And twenty more survivors know that when they are ready to work, Freedom and the Y are here for them. Even women in jail as I write this (yes, survivors of sex trafficking are often in jail—it’s a long story, call me) have been told while in shackles and tears there is legal and sustaining work for them when they are free—the relief and wonder in their faces make my life whole.

But this is just the beginning! What if every major city had social enterprise for survivors of trafficking? What if Cause Cuisine blossoms all over the country? What if women who have been shackled for a living have a chance at Freedom? The Y has many, many commercial kitchens! But we will start small and remember the forks, learn to keep an eye on the time.

So, what is the Y doing for women survivors of trafficking? It is immeasurable as the sea and strong as the sky. All we can do is say, thank you.

Kae Denino
US Project Coordinator
doma USA/Freedom a la Cart
Guest Blogger

Early Detection Can Save Your Life!

September is National Prostate Cancer Awareness month.  It is a time set aside to increase awareness about this important issue.  The American Cancer Society estimates that this year, more than 240,000 new case of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in the United States.  Nearly 30,000 men will die of prostate cancer.  Roughly 1 in 6 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime (1 and 7 in Canada). 

Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer in American men.  Despite these statistics, there is hope.  With early detection and treatment men can live happy, healthy and long lives.  In fact, more than 2.5 million men in the United States who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point are still alive today.

 

Typically, prostate cancer occurs mainly in older men.  In fact, nearly two thirds are diagnosed in men aged 65 or older and it is rare before age 40.  The average age at the time is diagnosis is 67.  At the age of 49, Dan Hennessey was diagnosed with prostate cancer.  With the help of early treatment and detection, the support of his physician, family and community, Dan is cancer-free today. 

During his prostate cancer journey, Dan began to write as way to express his thoughts and feelings about his prognosis.  His writings evolved into a book, “With the Snap of a Glove,” in which he shares the vulnerable, human side of prostate cancer and its impact on relationships in his life.  A Canadian resident, Dan considers prostate cancer a global issue and is determined to spread his message all over the world. 

Passionate about creating awareness, Dan contacted the YMCA of Central Ohio recently to share his story and to ask for our support promoting awareness about early detection and treatment.   Across the nation and in countries all over the world, the Y is a leading force on health and well-being.  At the Y, we believe that practicing and supporting healthy lifestyles means more than just simply being active.  It’s about maintaining a balanced spirit, mind and body.  We are also committed to creating awareness about important issues that impact our community.

Recognizing the impact prostate cancer has on families, Dan created a video to encourage dialogue between teens and their parents and to promote awareness to a new generation.  We hope this video will help stimulate dialogue in your homes about this preventable disease.  More importantly, we hope that it will help to save a life.

Thank you Dan for sharing your journey with us, and we hope that it will inspire you!

 

 

 

 

The Y tackles Childhood Obesity!

 

September is designated as National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) childhood obesity has more than tripled over the past 30 years.  Nationally, more than 23 million children and teens are obese or overweight.  For African American and Hispanic children the rates are much higher.

Childhood obesity has immediate and long-term effects on health and well-being. Studies show that children that are overweight or obese are more likely to be at risk for cardiovascular disease, including high cholesterol or high blood pressure. Obese children are also more likely to at risk of developing type 2 prediabetes and be at greater risk for developing bone and joint problems, sleep apnea and experience issues with poor self-esteem. Long-term, children and teens who are obese are likely to be obese as adults and more susceptible to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer and osteoarthritis.

Healthy lifestyle habits, including making healthier food choices and increasing physical activity, can help reduce the risk of childhood obesity and other related diseases. As a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility the YMCA of Central Ohio offers the following tips to help families in Central Ohio incorporate regular physical activity and healthy eating into their lives.

Eat Healthy: Make water the drink of choice (supplemented by 100 percent fruit juices and low-fat milk) and have fruits and vegetables available at every meal. Snack time should include foods that contain whole grains and lean protein instead of saturated and trans fats.

Play Every Day/Go Outside: Kids and adults should have at least an hour a day of unstructured play outside (when possible) with children having a goal to obtain 300 minutes of physical activity per week.  Just starting out, start small with 10 to 20 minutes at a time.

Get Together: At least once a day families should dine together, with kids involved in meal preparation and clean up. In addition, adults should spend one-on-one time each day with their kids.

Reduce Screen Time: Time spent in front of a television, computer, cell phone and video game should be limited to two hours per day.

Sleep Well: Kids and adults need to keep a regular sleep schedule—10-12 hours per night for kids and seven to eight hours for adults.

For more information on how your family can live a healthy, active life, visit ymcacolumbus.org/health-well-being-fitness

Achieve Balance at the Y!

Serving families has always been at the heart of the Y. With school now back in session, kids (and parents) often find themselves consumed with balancing rigorous schedules. Our desire is to provide opportunities for families to build stronger bonds, achieve greater work/life/school balance and stay engaged with each other and their communities.

This school year, The Y wants to make sure that parents and kids have the tools necessary to live a healthy and balanced life. Below are some tips for healthy eating and physical activity:

1. Start your day off with breakfast. Skipping breakfast can make kids feel tired and irritable. Breakfast is a great way to give the body the refuel it needs. Studies show that kids who eat breakfast tend to eat healthier and are more likely to participate in physical activities (Source: www.kidshealth.org).

2. Get active and moving! On average, children and teens spend an estimated seven hours a day engaged in some form of media. This trend has contributed to increased rates of childhood obesity. Studies show that by decreasing screen time and increasing physical activity helps to kids maintain a healthy weight, improve psychological well-being and help kids gain more self-confidence. More importantly, physical activity helps to increase life expectancy rates  (Source: www.medpagetoday.com).

3. Make healthier food choices. Grabbing dinner out or at a fast food restaurant is often easier than cooking at home. Often these foods, although convenient, are loaded with high calories and fat content. Preparing healthy meals in advance is a great way to save money and control what your child consumes.

4. Eat together! Mealtime is a great time to talk to your kids about what’s going on in their lives. In fact, studies show that the more families eat together, the less likely kids are to smoke, drink, use drugs and engage in other negative behaviors. Eating together as a family also helps to promote healthy food choices  (Source: www.time.com)

5. Include physical activities in family time. Our busy schedules often keep us from spending quality time with our families. One of the ways to change this is to plan activities with the entire family. Instead of watching TV, try spending time at the park, going for a walk or participating in a family fun activity at the Y!

Though life can be hectic and unpredictable, one thing remains certain – the Y is, and always will be dedicated to building healthy, confident, secure and connect children, families and communities.

Experience family time at the Y! http://ymcacolumbus.org/family-time

After the Bell...Discover the Y!

This weekend marks the end of summer for most kids as they return to school next week.  After the bell rings at the end of the school day, children and teens need a safe and nurturing place to go until their parents return home from work.  In Ohio, 30 percent of K-12 youth are left unsupervised after 3 p.m. and are responsible for taking care of themselves. As a leading nonprofit committed to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y offers quality after school programs that not only help youth learn, grow and thrive, but keep them safe and surrounded by caring adults.   

Combining play with academics, the Y’s after school programs fill gaps in schools and in the Central Ohio area by offering enrichment through arts, music, physical education, sports and nutrition. Youth in the YMCA of Central Ohio's after school program receive an educational based curriculum, which includes a school literacy program and homework assistance.  Our programs not only keep children and teens safe but engaged in fun and productive activities.

Studies show that youth who participate in after school programs demonstrate increased school attendance, academic performance and develop skills such as problem-solving, team building, negotiation and critical thinking.  Additionally, after school programs help to reduce achievement gaps among children from disadvantaged households. It’s also a healthy way for children and teens to stay active and productive when the school day ends.

Enroll your child or teen today! ymcacolumbus.org

This Saturday, August 11th has been designated by the global organization, Kids for Peace as a day of kindness.  It’s one day out of the year that kids all over the world are encouraged to perform small acts of kindness.  This year, the YMCA of Central Ohio has joined other organizations around the world to participate in the The Great Kindness Challenge.  Instead of doing just one day, we have decided to dedicate an entire week for our YMCA campers to perform good deeds for others in our community. 

Over the next week leading up to our annual Spirit Day on August 17^th, more than 1,000 Y campers will be performing as many good deeds they can complete within the week.  One of their acts of kindness will be to write notes of gratitude to our military for their service to our country.  The kids that complete 20 or more acts of kindness will be recognized on Spirit Day.

There are many ways for your kids to participate in The Great Kindness Challenge.  It can be as simple as smiling at 25 people, hosting a lemonade stand and donating proceeds to someone in need or even sending a card to a military family.   For a list of more acts of kindness, click here!

If you decide to participate, please be sure to post photos or share stories on our Facebook or Twitter pages.  

Nurturing the Potential of Every Child

Like millions across the country, we have been glued to our television sets watching in anticipation in who will capture the gold.  One of the many raising stars of the 2012 Olympics has been Gabby Douglas. 

Recently, Gabby made history and shattered world records in becoming the first African-American and first woman of color to win the individual all-around champion.  She also became the first American gymnast to win the gold medal in both the individual all-around and team competitions at the same Olympics.  What's most impressive has been her journey to the 2012 Olympics.  At a young age, her mother recognized and nurtured her potential. 

At the YMCA of Central Ohio, we believe that all kids should have the opportunity be active and discover who they are and what they can achieve.  We believe that all kids have great potential and we are committed to helping them achieve their goals and aspirations. Gabby Douglas is an example of just that!  We are proud of her and everyone representing the United States in the 2012 Olympics!

Here is Gabby’s story, we hope that it will inspire you!  Who knows, your child may be a future Olympian.....Go Team USA!

Celebrate the 2012 Olympic Summer Games at the Y!

On Saturday, July 28^th millions around the world will be tuned in to watch the best athletes from 200 countries from around the world compete for the gold! 

Our First Lady Michelle Obama has been selected to lead the U.S. Delegation to the 2012 Olympic Games.  In celebration, she is calling on families across the nation to not only support Team USA in cheering for our athletes, but to get active in our own communities in participating in “Olympic-inspired” events.

Whether it’s gathering friends and family members together to head over to your neighborhood YMCA for a pool relay race, hula-hoop competition or a pick-up game on the basketball court, we just want you to find an activity that inspires you to move and have fun! 

The YMCA of Central Ohio and First Lady Michelle Obama would love to hear what you have planned this weekend so if you follow us on Twitter, use  hashtags #LetsMoveDay and #YCBUS.

You can also share your fun event with us by “Liking” and sharing updates on our Facebook Fan page - YMCA of Central Ohio.  You can also join in on the nationwide discussion by “Liking” and sharing updates on the Let’s Move Facebook Fan page.

Join us in helping our children get active, live healthier lives and strive for excellence like their Olympic heroes!

Go Team USA!!!

Changing Lives at the Y!

In the United States, nearly 26 million individuals are impacted by diabetes and since 2000, the percentage of Ohioans diagnosed with diabetes has increased to 37%. It is estimated that approximately 7 million in the U.S. are currently undiagnosed. Those with diabetes will lose an average of 10 to 15 years of their potential life span and the cost of treating this disease continues to soar to unprecedented heights.

In Ohio, more than 3 million adults have prediabetes, which means a person’s blood glucose (sugar) is higher than normal, but their condition has not evolved into diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can be delayed or prevented in people with prediabetes through effective lifestyle programs. In Central Ohio, more than 360,000 individuals have been identified for being at risk of prediabetes or diabetes. 

Across the nation, the Y is a leading voice on health and wellness. At the YMCA of Central Ohio, we believe that in order to bring about meaningful change, individuals need ongoing support. One of the ways we are changing lives is through our YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program. This program helps those at high risk adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles and reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. 

The YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program is based on research funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which showed that by eating healthier food, increasing physical activity and losing a small amount of weight 5% to 9%, a person with prediabetes can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes. 

Since 2010, we have been providing this program at our Y’s and at various employer locations. The year-long program consists of 16 weekly sessions, followed up by monthly sessions in a classroom setting and are facilitated by a lifestyle coach. Participants learn about healthy eating, physical activity and other behavior changes over the course of the program. Topics range from being a fat detective, overcoming stress to increasing motivation to lead a healthier lifestyle.

To date more than 500 individuals have enrolled in the YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program. Over 250 participants have successfully completed the program and currently 270 remain actively engaged. On average, participants in the YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program have lost 6% of their body weight by the last weekly session and tracked 96 minutes of physical weekly activity.

In 2011, David Leslie participated in an employer health screening event where he had his A1c level tested. The A1c test is a commonly used to identify persons at risk for or diagnose a person with type 2 diabetes. The test is also used to gauge how well an individual is managing their diabetes. Although David was working diligently to improve his eating habits, his test still came back with a score of 5.9, identifying him as a person with prediabetes. Determined to change his fate, David joined the Diabetes Prevention Program at the YMCA of Central Ohio.

Since joining the program, David has learned ways to reduce and eliminate high fat foods from his diet.  Additionally, he has learned how to be consistent about making healthier lifestyle choices. This past May, David had his A1C tested again and for the first time in seven years his A1c was normal and for the first time in 10 years weighed less than 250 pounds. He credits his success to the support he received at the YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program.

David is just one of the many success stories of the program. To learn more about the YMCA of Diabetes Prevention Program visit http://ymcacolumbus.org/diabetes.

Caroline Rankin   
Guest Contributor
Director of Government Funding and Diabetes Program
YMCA of Central Ohio

                                                                                                                  

                                                                                  

Safe Summer Splashing!

Are you heading out to the pool this Fourth of July holiday and over the summer months ???  

We want to remind you to practice as many water safety tips as possible.  You can enjoy the benefits of swimming AND make safety a top priority.

Water safety is something we all should be concerned about all year and not just during the summer months.  It only takes a minute or inches of water for a small child to drown, so taking extra steps at home and around pools can help reduce incidents of drowning.

To increase awareness about water safety, the YMCA has partnered up with Pool Safely to provide important tips to help keep your child safe this summer and throughout the year.  Here are helpful tips to keep children safe.

At pools, spas and other recreational waters:

• Never leave a child unattended around a pool, spa, bathtub or any body of water.
• Teach children basic water safety skills.
• Have a telephone close by at all times when visiting a pool or spa.
• If a child is missing, look for them in the pool or spa first, including neighbor’s pools or spas.
• Share safety instructions with family, friends, babysitters and neighbors.

If you have a pool:

• If you have a pool at home, install a 4-foot fence around the perimeter of the pool and spa, including portable pools.
• Install a pool or door alarm.
• Use self-closing and self-latching gates; ask neighbors to do the same if they have pools or spas.
• Have lifesaving equipment such as life rings, floats or a reaching pole available and easily accessible.

At home:

• Always keep a young child within arm’s reach in a bathtub.  If you leave, take the child with you.
• Never leave a baby or youth child in a bathtub under the care of another young child.
• Never leave a bucket or basin containing even a small amount of liquid unattended.  Always empty and store buckets where young children cannot reach them.
• Consider placing locks on toilet seat covers in case a young child wanders into the bathroom.

To learn more about how to keep children safe visit:

http://www.poolsafely.gov/.  To enroll your child in swim lesson visit http://ymcacolumbus.org/swim-lessons.

Happy Independence Day and remember to keep water safety a priority this summer!

Elissa James
Metropolitan Aquatics Director

YMCA of Central Ohio

Guest contributor

Meet the Marlins!

Last week, the Eldon & Elsie Ward Family YMCA Marlins swim team made its debut.  It was exciting to witness nine children participate in their first swim meet.  On that day, the kids arrived early to observe how the swim meet was set up, to know what the four swim strokes included and the rules of competitive swimming.

As the Marlins assembled, I noticed that as they interacted with one another, their parents started to join in.  While waiting for their competitive event, the team members played cards and spent time catching up with one another, and discussing their goals for the day.

 

As the start of the meet grew near, swim team staff addressed the teams to let them know that they were expected to do their best and to have fun.  When it came time for the Marlins to compete, we walked with them down to the 

starting blocks and stood, waited for them to take their positions.

The starting time finally came!  We watched with excitement as team members began to swim; the entire pool deck cheering them on.  Parents, staff and members of the team were encouraging each child to stay the course and finish the race.  What touched me the most is how each child completed this event with determination.  When the kids emerged from the pool, the timers and officials greeted them with smiles and high fives, letting the team know they did a great job.

Although our Marlins came in last at their first meet, it was great to see the excitement and determination each child displayed during the tournament.  It was also inspiring to see the encouragement from the parents, staff and the other teams.

At the YMCA of Central Ohio, we are committed to helping children be safe around water and feel the sense of accomplishment that comes with learning something new.  Through swimming, children can learn skills that can encourage lifelong habits to lead a healthier lifestyle.  They can also learn discipline, increase self-confidence and develop problem-solving skills which can translate into successes in the classroom.  Activities like swimming can also teach our youth positive sportsmanship, teamwork and respect for others.

To learn how your child can be a part of a YMCA swim team or learn to swim, please visit ymcacolumbus.org.

Yours in Y Spirit,

Kim L. Jordan  
Vice President, District Operations 
Eldon and Elsie Ward Family YMCA

Celebrating and Supporting Fathers!

More than a century ago, Sonora Louis Smart Dodd aspired to create a holiday to honor fathers.  The daughter of a single father and Civil War veteran was inspired by a Mother’s Day sermon she heard in church and wondered why there was no holiday to honor fathers.  After securing support from ministers in Spokane, Washington, her idea came to fruition on June 19, 1910.

On Sunday, June 17, the YMCA of Central Ohio joins the nation in celebrating Father’s Day and recognizing the impact father and adult male role models make in children’s lives.  According to the U.S. Census Bureau, one out of three children lives in a home without a biological father.  Additionally, societal factors such as unemployment, work-life balance or lack of resources can affect a father’s ability to adequately provide support for their family and be more fully engaged in the lives of their children.

Studies show that children with close relationships with their fathers and other adult male role models have more self-confidence and exhibit less depression, perform better academically and engage in significantly less drug and alcohol use. 

The YMCA of Central Ohio believes that family bonds are a foundation of strong communities, and we work to help all families feel confident, connected and secure.  The Y offers a variety of resources for fathers to involve themselves in the well-being and development of their children.  We offer a number of fun, family focused activities such as Family Camp, Family Nights, and Family Wellness Programs to help build stronger bonds, achieve greater work/life balance, and become more engaged with their communities.

There is nothing more special or important than my role as a father.  Being able to spend time with my family is one of the highlights of my day.  There is no substitute for spending time with my children during family dinner or attending their sporting events.  As I reflect on this day, I am reminded of the impact my father had on me.  When I was 14 years old, my father passed away at the age of 60 due to a preventable illness – heart disease.  As a proud father, there is nothing more important than for me to be in good health. 

In a recent article published by WebMD, the top five health concerns for men are heart disease, stroke, suicide resulting from depression, lung cancer and prostate cancer.  Many of the top causes for death are preventable, and can be treated, if detected early.

As you think about Father’s Day gifts, I ask that you consider the YMCA of Central Ohio in celebrating this day.  There is no greater gift than good health.  The Y provides opportunities for men and fathers to manage and prevent chronic disease to help them live a balanced, healthy and happy life.  I encourage you to visit our website ymcacolumbus.org to find out how we are helping men, women, children and families be happy, healthy and connected. 

Happy Father’s Day!

Yours in Y spirit,

Andrew A. Roberts

President 

YMCA of Central Ohio

Building Future Leaders

Graduation marks a very important and transitional time for many young people.  For some graduates, it is the beginning of a new and exciting journey.  For others they are the first graduates in their family.  Our youth face challenges in today’s world and through the YMCA Leaders Club program, we provide the building blocks to help them be successful and contributing members of their communities.

At the Y, we believe that you are never too young to lead.  The YMCA of Central Ohio is committed to nurturing the potential of every child.  Through the YMCA Leaders Club, we help teens gain the necessary skills and experience to guide them to be healthy, happy and connected adults.

Founded in 1885, Leaders Club has been instrumental in helping young people across the nation become future leaders in their communities.  Building upon the YMCA’s core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility, we provide opportunities for youth to develop skills in Leadership Development, Service to Others, Social Development and Personal Growth. 

The YMCA Leaders Club program is designed for 6 through 12th graders and provides opportunities them to meet new people, build relationships, learn valuable skills and to get involved in the community. 

One of our members, Benjamin “Frankie” White was involved in the YMCA Leaders Club since he was in seventh grade.  During his involvement, he has been able to make life long friends and lasting memories.  Most recently, Frankie completed his first year at St. John’s University, majoring in Sports Management.  He credits the YMCA Leaders Club for being a major influence in his life.  For the past two summers, Frankie has served as a YMCA camp counselor.  In fact, Frankie became the first Gahanna YMCA Leaders Club participant from the program to be employed at the Gahanna/John E. Bickley YMCA.

Virgil Hughes is a current YMCA Leader Club participant.  He has been actively involved in the program for the past 4 years.  Last year, Virgil was asked to speak at the Gahanna YMCA 2011 People Helping People annual breakfast. Currently, Vigil is an honor roll student at Gahanna Lincoln High School and a dedicated volunteer in his community.  Virgil credits his involvement in the YMCA Leaders Club for shaping his path toward leadership.  Although he is sad that this will be his last year in the program, he vows to remain actively involved in his community and with the Y.

These are just a few examples of how the YMCA Leaders Club has made a positive impact on our youth.  At the YMCA of Central Ohio we are believe that there are no throw away kids, but all kids are of promise. 

As graduates embark on the next chapter in their lives we hope that their YMCA Leaders Club experience has given them the skills and experience that will help them be strong leaders in their community. 

Congratulations to the 2012 graduates!

To learn more about YMCA Leaders Club visit: http://ymcacolumbus.org/education-leadership

Building a Healthier Future!

According to the CDC, approximately 17% of all children and adolescents in the United States are obese.  Children who are obese are at greater risk of developing high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which are factors in cardiovascular disease.  Additionally, these children may be at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, asthma and other preventable chronic diseases.

As the nation’s largest provider of early childcare and after school programs, we want to nurture the potential of all kids so that they can realize their full potential.  Locally, our commitment to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility compels us to take a leading role in ensuring that central Ohio children have access and opportunities to realize a healthier lifestyle.

Recently, the YMCA of the USA joined first lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move initiative to adopt new standards for healthy eating and physical activity in early childcare and afterschool programs. Through these efforts and the Y’s commitment to nurturing the potential of every child and teen, we are confident in our ability to affect this growing crisis amongst our youth.

The YMCA of Central Ohio is dedicated to reversing the trend of childhood obesity and chronic disease in our community.  By supporting the new healthy standards of the Let’s Move initiative, we are reducing rising health care costs and more importantly, helping our children live longer and healthier lives.  We are committed to establishing a minimum of expected activity for children involved in our programs, providing daily outdoor time, designating fruits and veggies as our snacks and providing water or lowfat milk. Additionally, we will assist parents at home, providing the educational resources they need for reduced screen time and enhanced family activity time. 

To learn more about our programs visit http://ymcacolumbus.org/child-care.  Together we can make a difference!

The Y Supports our Troops!

Servicemen on leave at the Downtown YMCA circa 1940

A decade before the American Civil War, the first YMCA in the United States was established in 1851.  During this time in our nation’s history, the YMCA played an integral part in providing spiritual, educational, and recreational support to our soldiers on the battlefield during the Civil War and in subsequent wars.

In 1861, representatives from 15 YMCA’s joined together to create the United States Christian Commission to provide spiritual and physical support to soldiers.  In a letter to the YMCA, President Abraham Lincoln praised the efforts of the volunteers, “I sincerely hope your plan may be successful in execution, as it is just and generous in support.”

More than 160 years later, the YMCA is continues to provide support to our U.S. military personnel.  Deployment is a stressful and uncertain time for our nation’s servicemen and women and their families.  Through a partnership with the Armed Services YMCA and the Department of Defense, the Y proudly offers free memberships and respite child care services to eligible military families and personnel to provide additional support during this difficult time.  It’s just one of the ways we give back to those who dedicate their lives to serving our country.

The YMCA of Central Ohio proudly supports our military.  On this Memorial Day holiday we honor the memory of those who dedicated their lives to serving this country and those who continue to protect our nation.  The Y salutes you!

To learn more about our military outreach initiative, visit: www.ymca.net

It Only Takes a Minute...

Each year, more than 3,000 U.S. children experience a drowning-related incident. May is designated as National Water Safety Month. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the second-leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages one to 14 years old. In ethnically diverse communities, the youth drowning rate is two to three times higher than the national average. 

As part of the Y’s commitment to keeping swimmers safe in and around the water, we encourage kids and adults to have fun and enjoy the benefits of swimming and to always make safety their first priority. 

At the YMCA of Central Ohio, we are dedicated to reducing the incidence of childhood drowning in our community. We teach water safety skills and help participants develop confidence in and around the water while enjoying swimming and other water activities.

In an effort to reduce the incidence of drowning in our community, we are hosting the city’s largest swim evaluation event this Saturday, May 19th from 1pm -3pm at all of our YMCA of Central Ohio locations. The event is free and open to anyone who wants to find out how well their child can swim. No appointments are required and it’s for everyone ages three and up. 

After the evaluation, various Y locations will have activities and presentations for the whole family to enjoy. Every child evaluated will receive a prize – while supplies last. For more information and a complete listing of activities, visit: ymcacolumbus.org.