Spring Y Spirit 2021

A MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO

Dear Friends,

Spring is a time for rebirth and renewal. Each year at the Y, we look at this time of year with hope and optimism because we are enthusiastic about a new season full of supporting children, adults and families. Thank you for being a donor, volunteer, program participant or member of the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne. We are a movement of over 100,000 men, women and children with opportunities to positively impact the lives of others.

The YMCA believes in nurturing the potential of every child and teen. YMCA summer day camp and resident camp programs are some of the best examples of our mission in action. Caring supportive adults engage with children in environments that foster learning, creativity and relationships. Y Camps focuses on the A, B, C’s; Accomplishment, Belonging, and Character. Children experience a sense of accomplishment by trying something new or overcoming a fear, they gain a sense of belonging when making new friends, and grow in character with positive role models guiding them along the way. Using the Y Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility; we engage youth with activities and environments to teach and reinforce these values.

Adults and families also need a place to connect and belong. Across our community people are committing themselves to re-engaging with the people and places that give them energy and comfort. Your local YMCA is the place to re-engage. Today, your free time might look different than it used to, but we all need to use that free time to disconnect from the stresses of life and plug into joy. When I hear friends challenging each other on the basketball court, or a child giggling with their parents at the pool, that gives me great joy. We are so much more than a building. We are neighbors and friends, we are coaches and supporters, we are the essence of community.

Our staff and volunteers help strengthen our community by facilitating relationships and serving people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. When you are ready to re-engage, the Y is here and ready to serve.
With gratitude,

Chris Angellatta
President & CEO
YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne

YMCA SPREADS JOY IN THE COMMUNITY

Did You Know--YMCA Volunteers Created, and then delivered over 6,000 Valentine's Day Cards to folks living in senior living centers!

YMCA ANNUAL CAMPAIGN

YMCA Annual Campaign Raises Funds for Financial Assistance Program
Because of our commitment to strengthen the foundation of our community, in 2020, together we awarded $2.2 million in financial aid to people throughout Allen, Whitley and Wells Counties.

With your help we have made great strides in our community, but we believe we can do so much more. We raise money to help offset membership and program fees for people who want to be part of the Y family but cannot afford to do so.

In order to be successful, your branch needs your help. For more information on how you can help our Annual Campaign through volunteering or giving, check with your local branch, visit fwymca.org, or email HereForYou@fwymca.org.

Donate Now

MAINTAINING A HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT

At the Y, we continue to navigate these uncertain times by ensuring that a healthy and safe environment is available for our members, program participants, staff and guests. Staff continue to frequently clean and sanitize equipment, locker rooms, and shared spaces with a hospital grade disinfectant which kills the coronavirus. Every night, a professional cleaning company or trained Y staff deep clean and sanitize our facilities.

Everyday schedules have been disrupted and routines have changed for many. Exercise is especially important right now because it can reduce stress, prevent weight gain, boost your immune system and improve sleep. It may be tempting to skip your workout during these challenging times, however it is important to stay active for your physical and mental well-being.

SUMMER PROGRAMS SESSIONS I & II

SUMMER I SESSION: June 7-July 18
REGISTRATION OPENS:
Y Members: Mon, May 17
Program Participants: Mon, May 24

SUMMER II SESSION: July 19-Aug. 29
REGISTRATION OPENS:
Y Members: Mon, July 5
Program Participants: Mon, July 12

View Programs

YOUR FRIENDS ARE AT THE Y

SUMMER CAMPS - SPOTS STILL AVAILABLE!

Summer Day Camp: When school is out, kids in grades K–6 can have fun making crafts, playing games and being active with their friends at a Y day camp! Our summer day camp helps kids gain self-confidence, build character, and focuses on the whole child in spirit, mind and body. Find out More >>

Summer Overnight Camp: YMCA Camp Potawotami has been building community, faith and friendship in a beautiful, safe environment for over 100 years! Located off Blackman Lake in Wolcottville, camp is a lot of fun, with swimming, games, campfires, mud hikes, climbing, archery, arts and crafts. No matter what their interests are, there is something at Camp Potawotami! Find out More >>

FIND AND LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

Keep up-to-date with the latest Y news, events and programs and connect with other members. Like us on Facebook, ask us a question or share a story!

Find and connect with your branch below:

YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne

Caylor-Nickel Fdn. Family YMCA

Central Branch YMCA

Jackson R. Lehman Family YMCA

Jorgensen Family YMCA

Parkview Family YMCA

Renaissance Pointe YMCA

Skyline YMCA

Whitley County Family YMCA

YMCA Camp Potawotami

YMCA Child Care Services

YMCA Youth Service Bureau

ENVISION YOUR LEGACY

Throughout our lives, most of us strive to make a difference, providing gifts to people and causes we value. It would be wonderful to know that you can continue to change lives even after you're gone - creating a legacy of support - for future generations.

For more information about leaving a Legacy gift to the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne, contact Nicole Hansen, Director of Mission Advancement at 260.918.2144.
Find out More >>

OUR PARTNERS

YMCA Mission Partners provide financial resources to strengthen our community and move us all forward. The continued support of these companies allows the YMCA to carry out our mission - making a meaningful, enduring impact in our community.