Valley Shore Ymca

Programs: Healthy livingthe y is a leading voice on health and well-being. We bring families closer together, encourage good health and foster connections through fitness, sports, fun and shared interests. As a result, over 9000 people in our community are receiving the support, guidance and resources they need to acheieve greater health in spirit, mind and body. This is particularly important as our nation struggles with an obesity crisis, families struggle with work/life balance and individuals search for personal fulfillment. We provide a variety of classes, sports leagues, instruction, weight loss programs and wellness activities, including swimming, to ensure members can maintain an effective lifestyle. Our programs are accessible, affordable and open to all faiths, backgrounds, abilities and income levels. In 2017, we provided over $99,000 in financial assistance to people who otherwise may not have been able to afford to participate. Additionally, approximately 28% of our members are active older adults and we provide opportunities for senior members to socialize, improve their physical fitness to be able to lead more active and productive lives in retirement. 88% of our seniors in 2017 were on a no-cost or low cost insurance plan, which was subsidized by our membership.

youth developmentour ymca is committed to nurturing the potential of every child and teen. We believe that 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 before and after school care, summer camp, youth sports, youth swim programs, and other youth activities offer a range of experiences that enrich cognitive, social, physical and emotional growth. Our before and after school programs provide over 200 children in six towns with opportunities to play, socialize and learn with their classmates in a safe and fun environment which enables parents to work with peace of mind that their children are well cared for. In 2017 we provided over $14,000 in financial assistance to families who could not otherwise afford this valuable day care option so they may continue to work. The ymca believes that camping significantly contributes to the healthy growth of children by teaching them independence, decision-making, creativity and important social skills. Day camp has also become a primary source of childcare for working parents during the summer months. In 2017 we provided over $9,000 in scholarships and served more than 300 children. Drowning is the second leading cause of death in children. We are committed to ensuring that the kids who live in our shoreline communities have the basic safety and swim skills to be safe around and within the water. Our fit kids learn to swim program teaches every first grader in westbrook to swim for free. In 2017 we provided splash week providing over 200 kids a free week of swim lessons. We provided over 500 kids with swim lessons in 2017 and hope many of them will continue to pursue a love of swimming to participate in our competitive swim team comprised of over 60 young athletes practicing and competing in the swim sport from middle school throughout high school ages.

social responsibiltyour ymca believes in giving back and supporting our neighbors. We have been listening and responding to our community's most critical social needs. Ymca programs, such as the ymca community garden, teaching cpr, first aid and life saving classes to our community, togetherhood, knit along, senior forum and community group access to our facility are examples of how we deliver training, resources and support that empower our neighbors to effect change, bridge gaps and overcome obstacles. We engage ymca members, participants and volunteers in activities that strengthen our community and pave the way for future generations to thrive. In 2017 we asked our ymca community to provide new backpacks as part of a collection drive to help children in our area and our members responded with over 130 backpacks filled with new school supplies for children of all grades. In 2017, we had over 70 ymca members and nonmember volunteers in our ymca community garden and delivered over 2000 pounds of fresh produce to our local food pantry. 100% of the direct costs for operating the garden was provided by the local community through sponsorships, in-kind support and grants totaling over $8,000.