What it does
To build strong kids, strong families, & strong communities through programs that develop the whole person in spirit, mind, & body.
Youth Programs at the Y include day camps, gardening programs, and many others. One program highlight is SummerBridge, a free summer academic and enrichment program devoted to increasing children's literacy and math skills and designed to help low-income children avoid summer learning loss. The Y partners with the local school district to deliver academic and social enrichment five days per week, for five weeks from June through July. SummerBridge also aims to strengthen each participant's self-confidence, self-esteem, social and emotional development, physical health and well-being. The summer learning model includes transportation to and from the program site, breakfast and lunch for the children, community exploring, literacy instruction, math instruction, enrichment courses and fun field trips. SummerBridge is one way the Y is working to bring meaningful change to our community. The local school district reported that SummerBridge students outperform their peers; the 4:1 educator-to-student ratio is a part of that.
Aquatics: The indoor aquatic center is the location for all of the Y's aquatic programs, including swim team, swim lessons, and water exercise. One program highlight is the Y's Make-a-Splash program, a proactive approach to teaching basic water and safety skills to Blaine County 2nd graders at no cost to them or their families. In partnership with the local schools, children come to the Y during school hours to receive six, 45-minute sessions taught by experienced instructors and volunteers to ensure that children learn important skills while receiving time and support necessary to be successful. Skill focus is on a safety stroke known as the elementary backstroke delivering efficient movement with minimal exertion. The children learn to overcome water-related fears and respond appropriately in an emergency. The Y believes that drowning tragedies are preventable by building safety skills that can be taken anywhere.
Community Health: The YMCA provides health-oriented programs like yoga, cycling, pilates, chronic disease programs, and many others. One program highlight is the, "A Y For All Seasons Campaign". Life in the mountains has many benefits. It also means that winters are long and seasonal depression is a factor. Our children need places to run and play. We need community gathering places for recreation like Pickleball, Basketball, Soccer, and so much more. We need dedicated teen gathering and program spaces. We need a place for everyone, especially seniors to walk indoors when the snow is deep and the air is cold. The Y is raising significant capital funds to achieve this goal. Please note that giving is increasing to reach this long term goal.