YMCA of Marquette County

Geographic areas served: Marquette County, Michigan

Programs: The 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, 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. Our programs are accessible, affordable and open to all faiths, backgrounds, abilities and income levels. In 2014, we provided $117,879 in financial assistance to people who otherwise would have faced economic barriers to participation.

the ymca is the largest provider of child care in the united states. Our naeyc accredited child development program provides child and after-school care to children from 6 weeks to 12 years old, offering a range of experiences that enrich cognitive, social, physical and emotional growth. With the increased focus on early brain development, families need all the support they can get to nurture the potential of youth. That's why child care and early learning readiness programs at the y focus on providing a safe and healthy place to learn foundational skills, develop healthy, trusting relationships and build self-reliance through the y values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

our 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's why we help young people cultivate the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health and educational achievement. Our ymca youth programs, such as college goal sunday, swim lessons, reach and rise mentoring program and day camp, offer a range of experiences that reinforce the ymca values of respect, responsibility, honest and caring. Expenses include subsidies and direct financial assistance that make participation possible for the young people we engage.

our ymca believes in giving back and supporting our neighbors. We have been listening and responding to our community's most critical social needs for more than 15 years. We deliver training, resources and support to empower our neighbors to effect change, bridge gaps and overcome obstacles through y programs such as the military outreach initiative, ymca world service campaign, and our annual support campaign, and encouraging volunteerism and giving. In 2014, we engaged 530 ymca members, participants and volunteers in activities that strengthen our community and pave the way for future generations to thrive.