MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Membership at the Hutchinson YMCA has more than doubled since the organization moved into its new facility earlier this year.
David Foster, executive director of the Hutchinson branch of the Greater Wichita YMCA, said the facility now has more than 4,700 membership units. The YMCA had approximately 2,200 when it left its former location.
“We’re really excited,” Foster said. “Last month, we had 389 new units of membership join the Y in August, and we’re looking forward to continuing to build on that as we move forward.”
Nearly 39,000 people entered the facility during August. Foster said the new building has enough room to accommodate the increased traffic without feeling crowded.
The facility is located near 20th Avenue and Lorraine Street on 10 acres donated by Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System. Foster said the location provides greater visibility, easier access and significantly more parking than the YMCA’s former location.
Participation has also increased across several programs. The Kids Zone recorded nearly 1,600 check-ins during August, while land- and water-based group exercise classes recorded more than 6,300 uses.
The YMCA’s gymnastics programs served nearly 300 children during the month. Its competitive gymnastics team has grown to about 49 participants.
Foster said the facility’s dedicated gymnastics space has allowed the organization to offer additional monthly classes, academy programs and competitive opportunities. Registration for gymnastics and swimming lessons remains open throughout the year, with new classes beginning at the start of each month.
Youth sports are also underway, with approximately 500 children participating in soccer and tackle football.
“The more we can get especially kids, but people of all ages, connected and active, the better,” Foster said. “That’s a big part of our mission.”
The YMCA offers income-based financial assistance for families who may have difficulty paying membership or program costs. Discounts of up to 60% are available based on household income and family size.
“We want to make sure everybody who wants to and has the ability to come in is able to get connected and be a member or program participant,” Foster said.
The YMCA will also waive its $75 joining fee during a membership promotion running from Sept. 21 through Oct. 6.
Foster also highlighted the YMCA’s Splash water-safety program for second graders. All Hutchinson USD 308 elementary schools are participating during the fall semester, with approximately 250 students expected to complete the program. Other qualifying Reno County schools will participate in the spring.
The program taught water-safety skills to 368 second graders last year.
“It makes them more confident, but it also is a lifesaving program and a great lifelong skill for those kids to learn,” Foster said.
The YMCA also provides free specialized programs, including Livestrong for cancer survivors and Willpower Hour for people with Parkinson’s disease.
The current eight-person Livestrong class is full, and another eight people are on a waiting list. Foster said an additional class will begin in October.
Willpower Hour meets from 11 a.m. to noon Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Foster said the programs provide both physical and mental benefits by connecting participants with others who have faced similar experiences.