MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Just over a month after opening its new facility, the Hutchinson YMCA is seeing record membership growth, increased daily attendance and expanded programming, according to Executive Director David Foster.
Speaking on the BW Morning Show, Foster said the response from the community has surpassed expectations.
"We're just a little over a month in our new facility, and things are going quite well, even a little better than what we expected," Foster said.
The new YMCA, located at 2000 N. Lorraine across from The Alley, is averaging nearly 700 more visitors per day than the previous location. Membership has also grown by more than 3,000 people since the move.
Foster attributes the increase to improved accessibility, additional parking and a significantly larger facility.
"We just have so many more spaces," Foster said. "People come in and say the parking lot looks full, but once they're inside, it doesn't seem crowded because there are so many different things for people to do."
The additional space has also allowed the YMCA to expand its classes, programs and services while comfortably accommodating larger crowds.
To encourage new memberships, the YMCA is waiving its $75 joiner fee through July 20. Foster said the promotion comes after the initial rush of new members has eased, making it an ideal time for prospective members to tour the facility and enroll.
The YMCA has also seen strong growth in corporate memberships, with several local employers offering discounted memberships to employees.
The organization continues to emphasize that financial concerns should not prevent families from participating. Proceeds from its upcoming Bowl-A-Thon fundraiser will support the YMCA's Strong Community Campaign, which provides income-based financial assistance and funds free community programs, including Saturday Night at the Y, the LiveStrong cancer survivor program, the Splash program and Willpower Hour, a fitness class for individuals with Parkinson's disease and other neurological conditions.
Youth sports remain a major focus as the school year approaches. Foster said about 280 children have registered for tackle football, with late registration still available for a limited time. Registration for fall soccer, open to children from pre-kindergarten through sixth grade, continues through July 27.
The YMCA's Saturday Night at the Y program also enjoyed a successful debut at the new facility, attracting 98 middle school students in June. The free monthly program will resume in September and continue through the school year.
Another area experiencing rapid growth is gymnastics. Foster said the YMCA's competitive gymnastics team has expanded from 12 athletes to more than 40 since moving into the new facility, which includes a dedicated gymnastics space.
Residents interested in joining the Hutchinson YMCA can visit the facility at 2000 N. Lorraine, call 620-662-1203 or find membership and program information through the YMCA of Wichita website.