OUR HISTORY
The YMCA has been a cornerstone in the Northwoods community since 1998. From running life-changing programs throughout the community to the building of our facility in 2004, the YMCA of the Northwoods has continued to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background has the opportunity to live life to the fullest.
Over the years, the Y has changed to meet community needs, expanding and adapting programming to be a relevant partner in our area.
THE TIME IS NOW
As your YMCA has evolved since its inception, the need for expanded licensed child care and additional programming space to more effectively achieve your YMCA’s mission is evident. Supporting your YMCA has never been more important. This vision is not about brick and mortar, it is about making a difference in the lives of our friends and neighbors.
EXPANDING OUR REACH
In the Northwoods high-quality child care is a factor in bringing in high-quality employers, employees, and overall regional development. The Y is ready to respond and to give all of our children the opportunity to thrive.
IMPACTING THOSE WHO NEED US THE MOST
Our youth and families are facing…
• More pressure on time and commitments, taking away from positive family development.
• A lack of high-quality child care in the Northwoods. This impacts both early childhood development and workforce development for our community.
• Post-pandemic changes on the most pressing needs of our youth and teens.
• Community support systems that are not keeping pace with changing demographics and family structures.
“As a parent, choosing a daycare for your children is one of the most important choices you can make. That is why we choose the YMCA Summer Camp, After School and the Children’s Learning Center. We couldn’t be happier with the services that they offer for our children. As for the children, I asked them why they like the YMCA Daycare and they both said because it’s FUN!!! And they love all of the wonderful staff.”
– Lucas
Adults and seniors in our community are facing…
• High rates of chronic disease-related illness and obesity due to a lack of physical activity and poor nutritional habits.
• Increased health needs associated with an aging population. One in four individuals in the Northwoods is over the age of 65.
• Increased health inequities among people of different backgrounds. Our community has one in seven community members living in poverty, creating barriers to achieving optimal health.
“My story begins with a routine mammogram, followed by a biopsy and then the diagnosis of breast cancer. I was extremely lucky. My cancer was caught very early, and the prognosis was good. I had surgery followed by seven weeks of radiation. By the time I was finished I was extremely worn out and exhausted. When I entered the LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA program I was very weak and had not been in any type of regular exercise program for some time. I started out slow and as time went on I continued to get stronger. Soon after, I got the wild idea to try running the Cellcom half-marathon with my son. Never did I ever imagine I would be able to do that. Along the way I have lost a few pounds, a few more inches, and feel GREAT! It wasn’t always easy but it certainly has been worth it! Thanks to the LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA program, staff and other participants for the support and encouragement.”
– Karen
Internally we are facing…
• The high need for affordable and high quality licensed child care and out-of-school-time programming in our community.
• The significant lack of available space to further our impact through programs and services.
• An opportunity to leverage internal resources to grow our impact as we see community support.
