Ymca Of Ottawa Illinois

Programs: The ymca provides recreational programs for citizens. A) pre-school programs: approximately 150 youngsters aged 6 months to 5 years participate in a wide variety of programs. Skills are developed in aquatics, tumbling, and pre-school training. Youngsters learn social skills, develop self esteemand confidence, and learn respect for group leaders. Many programs consist of parent-child involvement which strengthens family relationships. B) school age youth programs: in excess of 500 youngsters are involved in one or more of the following activities: outdoor soccer, indoor soccer, basketball, flag football, competitive swimming, tae kwon do, racquetball gymnastics, swim instruction, after school program, and the porpoise club. New skills, good health habits, positive role models, increased self esteem/confidence, friendship development, interaction of adults & children and parent-child involvement characterize these programs. When added to recreational swimming and basketball plus weight lifting, children are provided with extensive and constructional opportunities as alternatives to substance abuse and delinquency. C) adult programs: designed to meet the physical and social needs of participants. Opportunities for health enhancement are found in fitness classes, the super circuit, weightlifting, cardiovascular room, lap lane swimming, and aqua fitness. Recreational swimming, walleyball, racquetball, andbasketball all add to overall fitness and also to those in their 70's and 80's. Snip & stitch, breakfast club and seniors fitness reach out to our seniors population. Five hundred or more individuals are active in the above programs. D) leadership development: although no formal programs are provided, leadership skills are developed through a wide variety of activities. Positive role models are provided in youth classes and leagues. Team leadership develops in youth sports. Volunteers expand their leadership capabilities as sports coaches, in committee work, board development, and fund raising. Many ymca volunteers go on to serve leadership roles in other civic organizations throughout our community. E) scholarship program: "no one turned away for the inability to pay. " based on its christian emphasis and dedication to serving all segments of its community, the ymca providesreduced or eliminated fee arrangements for the financially disadvantaged. Over 500 children and adults benefit throughthe scholarship program. Based on need, fees are adjusted for memberships and program activities. United way support and our partners in youth drive provide funds to subsidize scholarship costs.