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.

Imagine a Stronger Community!

From the first time I walked into this Y, I felt the strong and loving culture in the air.  From the Silver Sneakers classes with Carol to the vibrant after school teens, I knew the Hilltop YMCA was already connected and a positive force in this community.  However, one thing was clear, the existing building posed limitations to the potential growth and what we are able to do for our neighbors on the West Side.  In an effort to continue to deliver more impactful programs and services, the decision was made to launch a Capital Campaign.  In talking with members, I learned that this Y has a history of coming together to make things happen.

In 1947, a group of business leaders and members of the Columbus West Side community came together to discuss the possibility of bringing the YMCA to the Hilltop area.  Upon further review, these individuals concluded that the Hilltop did indeed need a Y.  After operating in a series of three buildings, the community raised funds to make this dream a reality.  The Hilltop YMCA began to take shape and from its humble beginnings, the location was opened in 1960.  Today the Hilltop Y remains deeply rooted in the community and is dedicated to ensuring that every child, adult, and family is healthy, confident and connected.

Since opening its doors, the Hilltop YMCA has responded to the needs of the West Side community.  The Y has provided quality and affordable preschool to families seeking to ensure that their children are ready for kindergarten and school-age child care so parents and caregivers can work to support their families.  For teens, the Y has provided an after school destination where they are safe, and can build their social skills, get guidance, tutoring and make lasting friendships.  Additionally, the Hilltop Y has helped our older members become active, engaged and have fun together.

Through the years, the Hilltop Y has embraced and nurtured the growth and well-being of West Side residents.  As a result of our success, the Hilltop Y has significantly outgrown its facility.  Currently, our teens are being tutored in a busy lobby.  Our Child Watch space combines children of different age groups.  There is a need to relocate the locker rooms to improve accessibility and safety for members with limited mobility.  Finally, the building is in need of renovation of its existing infrastructure. 

To attend to these needs, we are seeking to raise $1.5 Million to expand and renovate the Hilltop YMCA.  Thanks to the generosity of a group of foundations, individuals, and companies, we have already raised  $445,400.  We are well on a way to achieving our goals of adding a Multi-Purpose room, expanding our Child Watch and Wellness Center areas.  We are also working toward improving the men’s and women’s locker rooms and adding family designated changing rooms. 

It’s an exciting time to invest in the West Side!  By giving to the Hilltop Y, you not only help our West Side neighbors but you help to strengthen the whole community.  To learn more about our 2012 Hilltop YMCA Capital Campaign, contact info@ymcacolumbus.org. 

Camp - The Best Summer Ever!

Summer will be here before you know it!  It’s a critical out-of-school time when children and teens can benefit from enriched learning and new experiences.  While summer should be a time of exploration and discovery, many youth lose exposure to activities that keep them moving and learning.  At the Y, we believe that all children deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve.  Camp takes children and teens outdoors to explore nature, discover new interests, be active, and to develop confidence, leadership, and social skills.

At the YMCA of Central Ohio, there is a camp program for everyone!  Through more than 20 day camps and our overnight camp at YMCA Camp Willson, the Y continues to give youth an enriching and safe experience.  Our caring staff and volunteers model positive values that help build their kid’s character.  Additionally, the Y gives young people early work experience, employing 61,000 college-aged young adults as day and resident camp leaders each year. 

Nationally, the Y has been a leader in camping for more than 125 years and continues to be one of the largest providers of camp programs.  Today, there are 1,920 day camps across the country, 335 resident camps for youth and teens and 902 specialty camp programs that meet the diverse needs of children and teens  with disabilities and illnesses.

Thanks to the generosity of our members and the community, the Y is able to provide financial support to families who may face economic challenges in sending their child to camp.  To learn more about camp opportunities for your child or teen at YMCA of Central Ohio, visit http://ymcacolumbus.org/camp.

Enroll your child in camp today!

Celebrate Healthy Kids Day at the Y and Get Ready to Take on Summer

At the YMCA of Central Ohio, we know that when the school ends, many kids lose exposure to the activities that keep them moving and learning. The YMCA of Central Ohio is committed to ensuring that all kids have the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. 

Getting kids to step away from the computer, video games and mobile devices to engage in physical activity can be a challenge – especially during the summer.  Today, nearly one and three children is either overweight or obese.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular physical activity for children helps build healthy bones, muscles, controls weight, reduces anxiety and stress, and helps increase self-esteem.  In some cases, regular activity may improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels.  Research further shows that without access to activities that stimulate the mind and body, kids are more prone to gain weight and fall behind academically over the summer months.

With summer less than two months away, there is no time like the present to get moving and engaged in physical activity.  To help parents begin thinking about what activities will motivate their kids to become active, the Y is celebrating Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 28, 2012.  Healthy Kids Day, the largest health day of its kind in the nation, is an initiative of the Y to improve the well-being of kids. In celebration, more than 1900 Ys across the nation will be hosting free community events filled with fun, active play and educational opportunities to help parents plan activities for their children this summer.

As our nation’s leading nonprofit, we are dedicated to youth development and to addressing issues that impact our communities.  The YMCA of Central Ohio is proud to participate in the Y’s Healthy Kids Day and will feature a number of youth inspired activities at various YMCA locations throughout the city.  Some of the activities will run until May 4, 2012.  For a complete listing of  Healthy Kids Day activities, visit ymcacolumbus.org.

YMCA Launches New Program for Adults 50+

According to a report released by the Center for Disease and Prevention on aging, it is projected that by 2015, one in five adults will be between the ages of 50-64.  By the time adults reach this age group, 70 percent will be diagnosed with at least one chronic condition and nearly half of this population will have two or more. The resulting disease or disability may impact their ability to carry out the multiple roles they play in their lives.  Despite these statistics,there is good news.  Its never too late to jump start healthier aging, no matter what one's lifestyle choices up to now have been.  National experts believe that prevention and early detection is key to delaying the onset or identifying diseases in their most treatable stage.  Despite accessibility of these services, they remain underutilized.

Most recently the YMCA partnered with Pfizer to create a new initiative -- 50 Moving Forward.  This new program is designed to improve the health and well-being for adults 50 and older. 50 Moving Forward, at the Grove City YMCA, empowers adults 50 and older with the support, community, and tools they need to make healthier lifestyle choices, engage in preventive health measures, and achieve personal health goals.

Staying true to its name, 50 Moving Forward encourages adults to live a healthy life that allows them to look forward to and move forward with maintaining health and wellness as they age. Grove City YMCA will give members and non-members of the community an opportunity to make healthy improvements with their eating habits, physical activity, personal health, and community interaction by:

• Providing easy tips and resources to support their health and wellness.
• Motivating them to make personal health and well-being a priority and helping reduce the risk of disease and other health conditions with small changes in their everyday lives.
• Encouraging them to take measures to prevent disease, such as screenings and vaccinations.
• Asking then to share with friends and loved ones the things they're "looking forward to" in life

The Grove City YMCA will offer both offline and online resources to 50 Moving Forward participants, so they can customize the program to fit their individual needs. Participants can enjoy a variety of wellness classes like Zumba Gold, Pilates and Walk with a Doc, Healthy Happy Hours on Fridays, fishing and weekly newsletters, tips, and assessments, among other resources.

50 Moving Forward will officially launch on Monday, April 16, 2012 and the site is scheduled to go live at that time.  To sign up, click here.  For more information contact:

Grove City YMCA

3600 Discovery Drive

Grove City, OH  43123

614.871.9622

Every child is of Promise!

Over the last few weeks there has much spirited debate and discussion about Trayvon Martin – a young African American boy killed on February 26, 2012 in Florida.  While we do not know the full details of the case, the tragic events of that evening have stimulated conversation about race and social injustice in communities across the nation, including our Y.

In the wake of this young man’s death, there has been a tremendous amount of support for the family and outrage concerning the circumstances.  As a father of a multi-racial family, Trayvon’s death resonated with me.  Like many parents, I could not help to think, “What if this was my son?”  Although, we cannot possibly imagine the grief Trayvon’s family is enduring --one thing is for certain, this young person’s death has challenged some to examine their own perceptions and has motivated others to unite in taking a stand against the social injustices many continue to face in our country. 

As the leader of a diverse organization, I am reminded of the rich history and legacy of the YMCA movement over the past 160 years.  Since its inception, the Y has been a strong advocate and beacon of hope across thousands of communities in our nation.  The YMCA movement has played an integral part in the history of the African-American struggle for process and equality.  In 1853, just 10 years before slavery was abolished in the United States, the first YMCA for African-Americans was established in Washington D.C.  The “YMCA for Colored Men and Boys,” offered African-American men and boys an opportunity to receive a formal education and vocational training at a time when segregation yet existed in our country.

Today, diversity takes on an expanded meaning through culture, religion, lifestyle, race, style of dress, body type, and family makeup.  Yet the notion of judging others has never been more evident.  Children are bullied relentlessly for being different.  The suicide rate amongst gay teens is reaching an all- time high and children, who religious cultures are reflected in their dress, are often singled out and shunned in mainstream groups.  At the Y, we believe that there are no throw away kids…every child is of promise.

Our community needs a voice. The YMCA of Central Ohio proudly stands up to its responsibility to support diversity and inclusion across all fronts, welcoming all who enter our doors, participate in our programs or are cared for through YMCA services. 

The Y is a powerful and inclusive association of men, women, and children from all walks of life.  We are joined together by a shared commitment to nurture the potential of every child and teen, improve our community’s health and well-being and to supporting our neighbors.  As parents and leaders, we must remain vigilant in confronting social injustice in our community so that no child has to live in fear.

In his famous speech, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., stated, “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.”  We understand that in order to achieve the social change Dr. King spoke of, we must all work together.  Today the YMCA remains even more devoted to our cause of strengthening communities, to ensuring that that everyone, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. 

As you reflect upon the death of Trayvon Martin and others who have been unfairly discriminated against or judged for something so simple as a hoodie, I challenge you to take inventory of your own personal bias and to have the courage and strength to stand with the YMCA in leading our community forward and in using your own voice to protect our children of promise.

Yours in Y spirit,

Andrew A. Roberts

President

YMCA of Central Ohio