Whatcom Family Young Mens Christian Association

Programs: Youth development -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. In partnership with the state department of social and human services as well as local educators, the ymca is helping to educate and prepare children for school success at an early age. Our licensed preschool childcare has two locations in our community and provides full-time services for more than 190 infants and preschoolers. The educational support continues after children age out of early childcare. When children enter school the ymca provides a critical link between the classroom and comprehension for students by providing homework help and tutoring in our licensed after-school programs in 17 elementary schools across the county. Both state and ymca financial assistance programs are available to help those who cannot afford these childcare services. During the summer, ymca childcare programs continue to help by providing reading and math curriculum in our summer programs to combat the critical issue of "summer learning loss". Other ymca programs include girls on the run, youth leagues, and swim lesson. All of which offer a range of experiences that enrich cognitive, social, physical and emotional growth.

healthy living the ymca 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, people in our community are receiving the support, guidance and resources they need to achieve 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. Ymca facilities are available to all and are home to hundreds of program opportunities throughout the year. The whatcom family ymca had approximately 16,700 members in 2014, of which more than 1,300 receive some form of financial assistance to participate in all that the y has to offer. Memberships are purchased on a monthly or annual basis and financial assistance up to 90% of the cost is offered to those in need. Diversity and inclusion are desired in all ymca programming, because nothing is required except the desire to participate in a caring community of people. Each person's (or family's) financial circumstance and need is evaluated in a confidential manner by trained staff. Board-approved criteria and financial assistance is awarded using a sliding fee scale with consideration for unique and extenuating financial circumstances. Although membership is not required, it is simply the most seamless passport to all that the ymca has to share with those who are pursuing improved health and well-being, or developmental growth for themselves and their family.

social responsibility our ymca believes in giving back and supporting our neighbors. We have been listening and responding to our communitys most critical social needs. Ymca programs, such as adventure school, youth and government, community shower program, and scholarship program, 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. The whatcom family ymca and all of its programs are open to all in the community who would like to register and participate. Inquiries regarding membership are always welcome. Further, membership is not required to be a part of whatcom family ymca activities and programs.