Lake County Young Men's Christian Association

Youth development the Lake County 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 y programs, such as early learning, school age after-school child care, teen programs, day and resident camps, offer a range of experiences that enrich cognitive, social, physical, and emotional growth. Youth development programs impact 21,066 Young lives in our community pre-pandemic. Subsidies and direct financial assistance make participation possible for 29% of the Young people we serve. Early learning programs for youngest children, ages 4 weeks to 6 years, use developmentally appropriate curriculum for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. It is our commitment to ensure access to an environment and programming that fosters a love of learning and prepares each child for kindergarten. Parents play an important role in policy and program decisions. School-age child care includes before-and after-school licensed child care at 8 elementary schools in 3 local school districts as well as full day programming on school holidays and summer vacation. Structured time includes dedicated reading time, fun games that reinforce classroom learning, field trips and daily physical activity. We provide individual attention at the end of their day to make sure each child is progressing. Summer day camps offer learning opportunities in a more casual setting; weekly themes give children the choice to pursue individual interests. A variety of indoor and outdoor activities keep children busy, engaged and entertained throughout the summer months. Teen programs offer youth ages 12-17 leadership development, civic engagement opportunities, and creative experiences with arts and humanities. Minority achievers and youth and government cultivate teen leadership development and civic engagement. Day camp programs encourage and facilitate opportunities for personal growth and youth development. Camp activities are under the supervision of mature and trained volunteers that emphasize fun, leadership development, self-esteem, socialization, building confidence and an appreciation of nature.

Social responsibility the Lake County ymca believes in giving back and supporting our neighbors. We have been listening and responding to our community's most critical social needs for over 150 years. Y programs, such as military outreach, volunteer opportunities and partners for annual campaign, are examples of how we deliver training, resources, and support that empower our neighbors to effect change, bridge gaps, and overcome obstacles. This year we engaged y members, participants, and volunteers in activities that strengthen our community and pave the way for future generations to thrive. Military outreach initiative provides free memberships to family members of active duty military serving overseas. Our ymca offers support and resources for families of those who serve our country during a time of stress. The youth investment program assists teens in fulfilling court required community service and restitution. Program leaders intervene and invest in the lives of troubled youth, breaking the cycle of hopelessness and self- destruction, empowering them to succeed. Volunteerism at the ymca gives business and community leaders, parents, teens, and individuals the opportunity to give back by becoming involved in programs important to them and the community. Program volunteers serve as coaches, instructors and motivators to people of all ages. Volunteers provide key support in the ymca's annual support campaign. In 2022, 667 volunteers gave 3,148 hours of their time and talent to the y. Partners for youth allows for children, families, and people of all ages to enjoy the programs and services the ymca has to offer. We rely on the generosity of our community to reach our fundraising goal which underwrites the program costs and membership for the less privileged in our community. Together we make a difference in the lives of those we serve, every day.

Healthy living the Lake County 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, 52,302 people in our community in a pre-pandemic year received 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 mental impacts from the pandemic, an obesity crisis, families striving for work/life balance, and individuals search for personal fulfillment. Our programs are accessible, affordable, and open to all faiths, backgrounds, abilities, and income levels. Pre-pandemic we provided 1,227,955 in financial assistance to people who otherwise may not have been able to afford to participate. Health, well-being and fitness is a cornerstone of the ymca. Group exercise classes are available for all ages, activity levels and interests. Healthy lifestyles education and support programs are offered that specifically address areas such as diabetes prevention and childhood obesity. Wellness coaches provide guidance with personal fitness at all levels. As a result of the pandemic we added virtual class offerings and created a library for ongoing access. Sports and recreation activities and programs bring people together with shared athletic and recreational interests. Youth sports programs teach new skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Fun and love for the game is emphasized over winning. Aquatics programs offer a wide variety of water activities for all ages. Family time is encouraged throughout the facilities. Programs are offered that promote families having fun and growing together.

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