YMCA of South Alabama

Youth Development The YMCA is a leader in nurturing the potential of every child and teen. Every day, the YMCA helps young people deepen positive values, their commitment to service and their motivation to learn. Our YMCA programs such as youth sports, swim instruction, after school care, day camp and school days out programs offer a range of experiences that enrich cognitive, social, physical and emotional growth. Expenses include subsidies and direct financial assistance that enable many young people to participate, regardless of ability to pay. For over 120 years, the YMCA of South Alabama has led the way in providing programs for youth, adults and families. For additional details regarding these critical programs and their impact,see schedule O. YMCA After-school child care programs use fun and positive activities to promote physical, academic and social development that focuses on hands-on activities and active learning. The After-school program served 649 children this year. YMCA "Kid Zones" are located in each branch and provide a safe, supervised place for youth ages 8-14 to socialize with friends, work on school assignments, receive some tutoring help or just recreate, all the while helping the needs of working parents. 1,322 children were enrolled in summer day camp this year. The YMCA youth sports philosophy helps develop athletic skills and also to learn and practice good sportsmanship, respect and a healthy balanced outlook on competition. 834 youth participated in a variety of Y sports programs and leagues that includes: basketball, flag football, soccer, karate, swim teams and baseball/t-ball. YMCA aquatics programs give children confidence, necessary swimming skills and promotes swimming as a lifelong fitness activity. 1,073 children were taught how to swim at the Y this year. The YMCA values of honesty, respect, responsibility and caring are infused in all programs through team circles, discussion and programs.

Social Responsibility The YMCA of South Alabama provides a variety of programs to develop personal educational and leadership skills along with offering mentoring opportunities. The YMCA partners with other community organizations to identify and respond to community needs. YMCA programs, such as Youth In Government program is an example of how our YMCA develops social responsibility that strengthens our community and builds the foundation for future generations. We have engaged many YMCA members, participants and community volunteers in activities that build social responsibility.

Healthy Living and Well being The YMCA of South Alabama focuses on healthy living by advocating health and well-being from the inside out - the spirit, mind and body. The YMCA provides 23,564 members with the supportive relationships and environments they need for their successful pursuit of health and well-being. This is particularly important as our nation and our state struggles with an obesity crisis, families struggle with work/life balance and individuals search for personal fulfillment. We bring families together, offer sport, recreational and social networks that build relationships and strengthen bonds. For additional details regarding these critical programs and their impact, see Schedule O. Our programs are accessible, affordable and open to all faiths, backgrounds, abilities and income levels. We are providing financial assistance to people who needed to overcome economic barriers to participate. The YMCA of South Alabama views health holistically and supports people's wellness goals and objectives for a lifetime. Since 1856, the YMCA of South Alabama has upheld a commitment to help people of all ages; abilities, faiths, ethnic groups, income levels and cultures achieve better health. The YMCA's total health approach helps individuals and families create realistic goals for self-improvement, leading to healthier, more balanced lives. YMCA programs emphasize prevention through regular exercise, proper nutrition, and stress management. This year, instructional fitness and aquatics programs helped 736,000 participants develop healthier lifestyles, including older active adults in the Silver Sneakers partnership program. These programs promote healthy activity, social networks and skill development. The YMCA offers a welcoming atmosphere where participants feel comfortable and receive the support they need to improve their health. Financial assistance is available for those unable to pay the entire fee for membership.

Scholarship/financial assitance provided for membership and programs