MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The new Hutchinson YMCA is seeing significant membership growth just months after opening its doors, while the larger facility is allowing the organization to expand programs for children, adults and families.
Hutchinson YMCA Branch Manager David Foster said membership has increased about 169% since the YMCA moved out of its former facility in late May and early June.
“We've had a great response from the community,” Foster said. “They're looking forward to getting more and more people continue to be involved and become members and get involved in our programs.”
Foster said growth has been seen among individuals, families and active older adults, along with a significant increase in corporate memberships. The YMCA continues to work with area businesses interested in offering discounted memberships to employees.
Several areas of the new facility have been particularly popular. Foster said the indoor pools received heavy use during the summer heat, while the upstairs fitness center and indoor walking, jogging and running track have also attracted members.
The indoor aquatic facilities also allow the YMCA to offer swimming lessons throughout the year for people of all ages, including adults. The facility's new gymnastics center is being used for both youth and adult classes.
The YMCA is also preparing for a busy fall schedule.
Registration for youth basketball begins Sept. 7 and continues through Oct. 5. Foster said the additional gym and indoor space at the new YMCA allows more programs and activities to be held at the facility.
Hutchinson Community College students will get a special opportunity to experience the new YMCA during a Blue Dragon Welcome Night Friday from 9 to 11 p.m. The event is open to HutchCC students living in the residence halls, who can use the facility and learn more about membership.
The YMCA is also waiving its $75 joiner fee for any HutchCC student who becomes a member between Friday and Tuesday.
Several free community health programs will continue this fall.
Willpower Hour, designed for people diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to noon. Foster said about 60 people currently participate, and YMCA membership is not required.
The LIVESTRONG program for cancer survivors will also begin another session in September. The free 12-week program provides participants with YMCA membership while they take part and combines exercise with support from others who have experienced cancer.
The YMCA's SPLASH water-safety program for second graders will return in September for its third year. The program is offered free to qualifying schools where at least 60% of students receive free or reduced-price lunches. Foster said 358 students participated last year.
“It teaches them water safety, how to be safe in and around the water, which is a huge important life skill, but also a life-saving skill as well,” Foster said.
Foster said the YMCA continues to offer income-based financial assistance to help make memberships and programs accessible. The Hutchinson branch also participates in SilverSneakers and Silver&Fit, which can provide YMCA memberships to people who qualify through their health plan.