YMCA

SAGINAW, MI — As part of its latest initiative to improve health across the region, the Saginaw County Health Department will host a series of outdoor activities fit for the entire family along Saginaw’s riverside on Saturday, Oct 1. “There’s something for everyone on Saturday,” Christina Harrington, health officer for the health department, said in a statement. County health department data showed three out of four residents in the county are overweight or obese. The program involves partners such as the county health department, Saginaw Intermediate School District, as well as several Saginaw County-based health care organizations and nonprofits. Read more on MLive:Five months later, Saginaw County board candidates face rematch for seatCeremony honors lives lost, battles won at Saginaw hospital during pandemicIncumbent challenged for Saginaw County board’s Frankenmuth, Birch Run seatNewcomers campaign for rural, southwest Saginaw County commissioner seatNewcomers pursue state House seat for Bay, Genesee, Saginaw, Tuscola countiesPotter Street Station in Saginaw receives historic district status

Local companies took part in several activities as part of this year's Corporate Cup.

The YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit will be turning 170, and they are celebrating with a huge block party that everyone is invited to.

On Saturday, Sept. 10, join Ann Arbor YMCA for its intergenerational LGBTQ+ Family & Friends Dinner Dance between 5-8 p.m.

Great Start Collaborative will host its Summer Bash Aug. 26 to conclude the the popular Playdates & Popsicles series.

FLINT, MI – Stephen A. Smith, the famous sports television personality and journalist, has some advice for young people in Flint about hard work. The star of ESPN called into a Zoom meeting before a group of about 50 DREAMS Basketball and Life Skills Academy campers at the YMCA of Greater Flint on Thursday, Aug. 18.

The events are free and open to the public.

The Monroe Family YMCA Tide Swim Team competed at the Toledo Summer Swim League Championship.

WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI -- Sports Port, an Ann Arbor YMCA program, brings the fun to local children with snacks and sports. The program makes the Y mobile, giving it access to kids in places that might not have access to the Y. The program provides equipment and games Monday through Friday at Ann Arbor area apartment complexes, libraries and parks, where Ann Arbor YMCA staff lead sports with kids, like basketball, flag football, soccer, lacrosse, floor hockey and disc golf for an hour. Sports Port is looking for volunteers and workers to assist the Ann Arbor YMCA with activities For more information contact jwells@annarborymca.org. More from the Ann Arbor News:In 7-3 vote, Ann Arbor council overrides administrator on living wage policyFirst monkeypox case found in Washtenaw CountyControlled burns coming to natural areas around Ann ArborPrepare for construction backups on well-traveled Ann Arbor road near I-94

The clinics “are part of a continued effort by the Ann Arbor YMCA to support Washtenaw and Southern Livingston Counties through the Covid-19 pandemic,” YMCA officials said in a release.

The bar and music venue is now owned by team behind Detroit Shipping Co. food hall

ANN ARBOR, MI -- The Ann Arbor YMCA is offering members of the community food, live music -- and hopefully an overall good time. The organization will host its annual block party Saturday, June 25 from 2-6 p.m. The block party is free and offers participants with an array of activities: lawn games, arts and crafts, a food truck, karate and cycling classes, free bicycle tune-ups and more. YMCA Collaborators include:A2 MagicAnn Arbor District LibraryAnn Arbor Fire DepartmentCommon CycleCorndaddy (musical group)Fed Up Food TruckHands-On MuseumLeague of Women VotersLocal Balloon ArtistLocal D.J. Pride-themed Ford BroncoYMCA CyclingYMCA Job FairYMCA Karate/Judo demonstrationMore From Ann Arbor News:Ypsilanti comes together with gospel, soul and jazz on JuneteenthMastodon mecca?

I am so saddened to learn of another tragic drowning at one of our beaches.

This summer Detroit area teens can experience outdoor adventures, explore scenic destinations and learn valuable skills about leadership.

On June 25, community members can hang out in front of Ann Arbor YMCA, at 400 W. Washington St., to get a jumpstart on their summer fun.

The former Livonia YMCA will open its doors as a new sports facility this week.

The former Livonia YMCA will open its doors as a new sports facility this week.

GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- A playground at an early childhood center is now open for the children in a Grand Rapids neighborhood. Volunteers from the YMCA, Lake Michigan Credit Union, Early Learning Neighborhood Collective and the community came together to build the new playground structure on Grand Rapids’ Southeast Side. The project is a result of a partnership between the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids and Lake Michigan Credit Union. Community members, volunteers, Lake Michigan Credit Union and the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids work to build new playground on May 2. (Photo provided by Susan McAnally)Susan McAnallyYMCA of Greater Grand Rapids Care Operations Director Heather Walczewski said the early childcare playground provides important opportunities for the community’s youngest learners.

Participants ages 18 and older will learn to express themselves and practice freeing their voice and body in the four-part workshop, YMCA officials said.

Michigan metro parks are partnering up with organizations across the area to promote water safety.

Concerns about COVID-19 cases have had many parents rethink sending their kids to camp during the pandemic. This time around, those feelings appear to be changing.

When you hear “summer job,” you may think of something that’s temporary, but those summer jobs can actually turn into a great, fulfilling lifetime careers. So, how do you know when you have a keeper?

ANN ARBOR, MI — Ann Arbor officials have OK’d plans for several more upcoming community events. City Council voted this week to approve street closures for the Ann Arbor YMCA’s community block party on Washington Street on June 25, as well as Fourth of July events. The YMCA block party June 25 takes place on Washington Street between First and Third streets. See other festivals returning to Ann Arbor streets soon. MORE FROM THE ANN ARBOR NEWS:See who’s playing at Ann Arbor’s Sonic Lunch this summer5 more Ann Arbor festivals bringing live music and fun back to city streetsAnn Arbor OKs $525M budget after heated debate over marijuana moneyAnn Arbor councilwoman remembers when abortion was illegal in MichiganAnn Arbor OKs plan for 5-story development in Kerrytown district

Free COVID-19 vaccinations will be available at three vaccine clinics at Ann Arbor YMCA’s downtown location, 400 W. Washington St., this week.

As we inch closer and closer to Memorial Day weekend, many pools in Metro Detroit are opening up for the summer season -- but they need more lifeguards and fast. If they don’t get help, it could mean reduced hours or closures.

ANN ARBOR, MI -- Registration is underway for the Ann Arbor YMCA’s free annual Safety Around Water classes in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. Classes in Ann Arbor, for children age 3-12, take place from June 20-24 at the Y’s Downtown Membership Branch, 400 West Washington St. Toni Kayumi, Ann Arbor Y president/CEO, said that COVID-19-related restrictions in the last two years also may mean fewer kids have gotten the swim lessons they need to stay safe. More from The Ann Arbor News:Watch out GrubHub, Uber Eats. This new Ann Arbor food delivery company says it’s betterAnn Arbor workers tried using religion to avoid COVID vaccine, but city didn’t buy itSee Ann Arbor workplace discrimination complaints filed by city workersSample food trucks, win prizes at Grow Green MI cannabis carnival

The event will feature cultural performances, food and booths from Asian American-owned businesses.

The Sanford-Springvale YMCA is hosting the YMCA’s annual Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 30.

FLINT, MI -- The YMCA of Greater Flint has received a $100,000 grant from the Ruth Mott Foundation to continue the Y Safe Places summer and after-school program. The program has been fully funded by the Ruth Mott Foundation for 10 years, according to a news release from the Flint YMCA. Almost 200 students use the Y Safe Places facilities, which offer field trips, academic assistance and dinner provided daily. Y Safe Places registrations are accepted at either site or the downtown Flint YMCA, 411 E. 3rd St. Safe Places Director Monica Holmes can be reached at 810-232-9622 with questions.

PORTAGE, MI -- Portage Public School’s current before- and after-school childcare program is being replaced with a program run by the YMCA. The district is partnering with the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo to provide a new before-and after-school childcare program called YMCA Prime Time, the district said in a letter to parents. “Our Prime Time program is designed to help all children grow in spirit, mind and body,” the Y said. The YMCA program offers morning and afternoon options. “We understand that many families have been with the Curious Kids program for years and transitioning to a new program comes with many questions and concerns,” the Y said.

Believe it or not, it’s already time to start planning for summer camps for the kids. So, how do you choose one that’s the right fit for the child in your life? We spoke to the experts at the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit for some helpful guidelines.

Three upcoming vaccine clinics at the Ann Arbor YMCA are free and open to the public.

Wondering how to keep yourself, or the girl in your life motivated to keep running? Here are ways to do so.

Iowa guard Jordan Bohannon couldn't recall how many times he tried a long, game-winning 3 in his backyard. With the shot clock running down in a tie game, a berth in the Big Ten Tournament championship at stake and the ball in his hands, Bohannon did what he always does — took the shot, this time from just inside the midcourt logo. “It’s something that can’t be put into words,” Bohannon said.

GRAND RAPIDS, MI - With many employment opportunities across the city and region, the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids invites current and future lifeguards to join their team and launch a fulfilling career. “Becoming a YMCA lifeguard provides you a support network to be successful from the day you decide to pursue the opportunity,” Peter Reiff, YMCA Human Resources director, said the release. “The free lifeguard training courses, competitive wage, flexible hours and six locations are all great benefits to the role. The Y’s greatest lifeguarding success story is YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids CEO Scott Lewis, who began his tenure at the YMCA lifeguard at a New Jersey location in 1986, where the organization invested in his leadership potential. For those already trained and who wish to apply as a lifeguard, visit www.grymca.org/careers.

FLINT, MI – YMCA of Greater Flint is hoping that its first annual Celebrating Black History Month event becomes a new tradition in the community. Comma Bookstore & Social Hub, a Black-owned downtown Flint business, donated a $30 gift card for the raffle. MSU Extensions will host arts and crafts for children and donate African jewelry for the raffle. The Genesee District Library is also holding a Black History Month Awards Celebration this week. April Cook-Hawkins, Flint Board of Education President Danielle Green, Lisa Horne and Flint City Councilwoman Ladel Lewis will be honored during the program, which will also be livestreamed on Facebook.

The cold weather and winter “blahs” can make you lose sight of those new year promises to lead a healthier lifestyle.

Monroe Family YMCA receives donation from Key Bank

Looking to kick off the new year right, with a healthy start? Join the Y 170 challenge!

Adult doses, children’s doses and booster shots will be available.

The summer program will offer several sessions, a mini-camp and a family camp throughout June, July and August.

ANN ARBOR, MI -- Non-binary and gender-nonconforming children will have their own housing option at the Ann Arbor YMCA’S Residential Camp this summer. Each cabin houses between seven and nine campers, with two to three counselors in each cabin, according to the Ann Arbor YMCA website. Camp Al-Gon-Quian, located at Burt Lake in Saginaw County, will host the Ann Arbor YMCA camp throughout the summer 2022. Early registration for returning families, active Ann Arbor Y members and camp alumni families opened Dec. 5, while open registration begins Jan. 11. “At the Ann Arbor YMCA, we strive to be a welcoming and inclusive nonprofit organization for the LGBTQ community and to give youth a voice in the types of programs and services we offer,” said Toni Kayumi, Ann Arbor YMCA president/CEO.

ANN ARBOR, MI — Plans for a major transformation of a blighted city-owned site across from the YMCA in downtown Ann Arbor are taking shape. Many of those operations moved to the city’s new Wheeler Service Center on Stone School Road in 2007, and 415 W. Washington has been vacant since. The image at left shows what the 415 W. Washington St. development could look like as viewed from Third Street. The image at right shows an existing view.SmithGroupThe image at left shows what the 415 W. Washington St. development could look like as viewed from Liberty Street. The image at right shows an existing view.SmithGroupThe image at left shows what the 415 W. Washington St. development could look like as viewed looking down Washington Street.

MUSKEGON, MI – A fitness club is expected to officially reopen in early December at the former site of a YMCA and Muskegon Community College health center on Muskegon Lake. The Neal Fitness Center will locate inside the building purchased by the Boys & Girls Club as a new clubhouse, the club’s director told Muskegon city commissioners Tuesday.

KALAMAZOO, MI — Local nonprofit Village in the Valley has partnered up with local businesses and institutions to raise funds for winter gear. Over 300 coats were donated during last year’s drive, Custard said. The nonprofit plans to do a public handout, like in previous years, outside the Kalamazoo County Courthouse in downtown Kalamazoo, once donations are collected by the first or second week of December. “I don’t discriminate towards used coats or snow pants; if it’s something that can be worn, a child can have it.”Like last year, she said KDPS will offer $1,000 towards gifting winter coats and snow pants to children in the Kalamazoo community. Even as a working parent, a coat and snow pants can be an expense of $85 or more, Custard said.

On Friday, Nov. 12, the Ann Arbor area teens will feature in the video premiere of “Creating Youth-Led Solutions: Sharing Stories with the YMCA.”

BAY CITY, MI - A new outdoor green space is being developed in Bay City.. The Dow Bay Area YMCA announced that the vacant space located between the YMCA and Uptown will be turned into a 2-acre multi-use park. The park will be open to the public when it is not in use by YMCA programs. The YMCA Uptown Park is slated to open in summer 2022. “After receiving the results of the study, we felt it best to postpone the fieldhouse project,” Gohs said.

In the wake of the most devastating public-health emergency in a century and the resulting economic uncertainty, Americans provided more charitable dollars to United Way Worldwide than any other nonprofit focused on direct aid, followed by the Salvation Army and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, according to new rankings by the Chronicle of Philanthropy.

The small city of Greensburg, Indiana, wants to grow, and is offering incentives for people to move in: Cash, a YMCA membership, and oh yeah — grandparents on-demand.

BENTON HARBOR, MI — Benton Harbor water service was restored Thursday afternoon, but officials cautioned residents to ease back into water use to alleviate strain on the distribution network following a system-wide pressure loss. A 20-inch water main that services the city’s water tower and main system arteries broke on Wednesday, Oct. 20, cutting water pressure across the entire city for about 24 hours. The YMCA in St. Joseph opened its facility to Benton Harbor residents needing to shower. EGLE said Benton Harbor residents should flush their taps for five minutes before using the water for washing hands, showering, or bathing. Benton Harbor is bordered by competing water systems in St. Joseph and Benton Township.

A big celebration will be kicking off in the D, and you and your loved ones are invited to take part.

As fall approaches, the temperatures shift and we find ourselves looking for new and fun things to do.

Back-to-school time has been a recurring topic as of late, and around this time of year, it seems parents also will be looking for cool programs for their kids to experience after school.

ANN ARBOR, MI - The mask mandate, regardless of vaccine status, is back for all indoor Ann Arbor YMCA activities. Everyone must wear masks inside the Ann Arbor YMCA’s building at 400 W. Washington St. or while participating in any indoor YMCA programs, officials said on Monday, Aug. 9. The move is to protect unvaccinated people as cases are spreading quickly throughout Washtenaw County, officials said. The Ann Arbor YMCA works with numerous children younger than age 12, who are not yet eligible for vaccination, officials said. Read more from The Ann Arbor News:Chemical spill cleanup complete at Eberwhite Woods, state now evaluatingUniversity of Michigan reinforces mask mandate even for vaccinated studentsFormer Ann Arbor detective commander named head of Eastern Michigan University police

Between 1-5 p.m., families can enjoy the annual LGBTQ+ pride event in the gymnasium of the downtown Ann Arbor YMCA branch.

The Y has kicked off its summer food distribution program for youth in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti.

ANN ARBOR, MI-- The Ann Arbor YMCA will use grant funds to help it distribute free food to those in YMCA youth camps and programs and its community partners. “There are families in Washtenaw County who are struggling financially, and we want to help prevent children in our community from going hungry,” said Toni Kayumi, Ann Arbor YMCA president/CEO. In collaboration with Ypsilanti Community Schools, the YMCA will give free lunch to campers in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti Township. Free weekend snack packs will also be provided to participants in YMCA youth programs. Free weekend snack packs will also be distributed at Forrest Knoll Apartments, McKinley Apartments and Food Gatherers’ mobile sites on Friday, July 30.

Possibly hundreds of Chicago parents scramble to find alternative child care after the city announced a federal redistribution of Head Start money.

When the heat rises to dangerous levels, you’ll need more than fans to keep cool. Here’s a list of cooling centers.

BAY CITY, MI - The Dow Bay Area Family YMCA is launching a three-week long fitness challenge for families soon. According to the YMCA, participants will receive three texts a week filled with motivation, workouts, and family fun activities to try throughout the challenge. All participating families will receive one free day pass to use at the Dow Bay Area Family YMCA any day during the three-week challenge to enjoy swimming, working out, playing basketball, and more. “Our organization has three pillars of focus in everything we do: Healthy Living, Youth Development, and Social Responsibility,” said Joslyn Jamrog, Membership and Marketing Director of the Dow Bay Area Family YMCA. Active participants will have the chance to win a one-year household membership to the Dow Bay Area Family YMCA and the national grand prize of a family vacation of their choice (up to $5,000 value).

DNA tests and years long search end with arrest of 44-year-old woman

GRAND RAPIDS, MI -- The YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids will expand its summer day camp offerings thanks to a $189,000 grant from the state. Officials say the enhanced day camp programs will address “the unique academic needs created by the pandemic.”“The YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids is excited to expand and enhance our existing day camp program,” said Nicole Hansen, district executive director of Community Engagement and Youth Development. We have the capacity and expertise to support schools and help achieve positive outcomes for students.”The YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids is still accepting registrations for summer programs. People wishing to be a day camp leader can visit grymca.org/careers for more information. The summer programs are focused on fun and keeping kids safe, active, fed and engaged with other children and adults.

JACKSON, MI – The design of a new YMCA in downtown Jackson is complete and work on the facility is now expected to begin in early 2022, officials said. Related: 4 properties sold, donated to Jackson YMCA for new buildingA capital campaign to raise funds for the healthy living campus in downtown Jackson also is in the final phase, officials said. Granger Construction Co. now is expected to begin site work in the first half of 2022, with construction running between 12 to 16 months. Requisite materials, ranging from structural and roofing materials, drywall and more, would not be available in time to begin construction during this calendar year as originally planned. Related: Jackson YMCA eyes summer 2021 groundbreaking for new facility“The YMCA is proud of and grateful for the tremendous progress we’ve enjoyed in the past year,” Tello said.

When you think of the YMCA, do you think of their center around town, where the group offers great gyms, swimming pools and day camps for kids?

The CDC announced youth camps can reopen this summer without masks and social distancing if attendees and staff are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

The following is a transcript of an interview with YMCA President and CEO Kevin Washington that aired Sunday, May 30, 2021, on "Face the Nation."

ANN ARBOR, MI -- As pools and beaches open, the Ann Arbor YMCA is bringing back their water safety classes, and are including locations in Ypsilanti. Safety Around Water classes at the Ann Arbor YMCA Downtown Membership Branch at 400 W. Washington St., are designated for children between the ages of six-months-old and 12-years-old and will be held between June 21 and 25. Last year the Ann Arbor YMCA cancelled SAW as a safety precaution due to COVID-19, Ann Arbor YMCA President and CEO Toni Kayumi said, instead offering a SAW box for parents that included water safety tips. The Ann Arbor YMCA has offered water safety classes for about 57 years, Kayumi said. SAW was made possible this year as a result of a grant from the Kiwanis Club of Ann Arbor and a contribution from McKinley Properties, officials said.

BAY CITY, MI - Families are invited to enjoy the warm weather during an event this weekend that focuses on promoting healthy habits through the YMCA in Bay City. The Dow Bay Area Family YMCA is hosting its ‘Healthy Kids Day’ event from 1 - 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 23. According to the YMCA, kids can face hurdles that prevent them from reaching their full potential when they are out of schools. The event will take place at the Dow Bay Area Family YMCA at 225 Washington Ave. Bay City, MI and it is free and open to the public. Those who are interested in attended are asked to mark “Going” in the YMCA’s Facebook Event for event updates.

The YMCA’s annual Safety Around Water (SAW) classes are returning this summer to Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti.

This last year has been a challenging one, due to the pandemic, and some are developing health concerns without contracting the virus.

After about two hours on lockdown for reports of a gunman on the Elmhurst University campus in the western suburbs, school officials issued the “all clear” shortly after 6 p.m. Wednesday.

Welcome to The Spin, the Chicago Tribune's politics newsletter.

We’ve all been through a lot this past year, and many people are considering taking a new path in life, such as changing careers.

SAGINAW, MI — New inclusive dances classes for children and teens will begin at the YMCA of Saginaw the week of Monday, April 5. Dance instructor Kraig Kramer, owner of Kamelion Visions LLC, said his classes are accessible to all children regardless of ability or disability. He was born with clubfoot, a birth defect of the foot, and dancing helped him to walk, he said. Kramer, who previously owned a dance studio in downtown Saginaw, said the art form has had a powerful impact on his life. “They can turn around and say, ‘Hey, look what I can do.’ You know, that’s the greatest thing in the world.

FLINT – The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation has granted $1 million to the YMCA of Greater Flint to help the organization maintain its services in the community as it deals with significant financial loss caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Short-term Mott support will allow the YMCA’s board of directors to keep the facilities open and available to the Flint community during the pandemic. “We are incredibly grateful for this grant because it will let us continue to help Flint and Genesee County survive the pandemic,” said Shelly Hilton, CEO of the YMCA of Greater Flint. Read more on MLive:Mott Foundation grant provides meals for volunteers at COVID-19 vaccine sitesC.S. Mott Foundation donated $106M to help Flint recover from the water crisisRuth Mott Foundation extends north Flint strategic plan through 2025

“Nowadays, technology plays such a vital role in our daily lives and can sometimes be the difference between securing resources and not,” said Cherese Ledet, senior vice president of operations at the YMCA, in the release. “Some people, particularly senior residents, might never have had the opportunity or means to develop the tech skills to go online or might not have family members close by to help them register for a vaccine or locate their closest vaccination site. Chicago residents in need can rely on their Y family by calling our Community IT help desk.”

Now is the time to start thinking about summer plans for the kids in your life. YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit has options for kids that can help make their summer magical. She also said that if you sign up for day camp now, they’ll waive the $25 registration fee, as well as saving $20 per week. Summer camp is more important now than ever, and the YMCA staff hopes getting back outside will give kids the chance to engage with their peers again. Summer camp programs will get back outside and give them the chance to go swimming, do archery and keep constantly engaged.

GRAND RAPIDS, MI — Meijer and several community groups are partnering to provide nearly 6,000 turkeys to West Michigan families in need. The turkeys can be picked up at the LMCU Ballpark (formerly known as Fifth Third Ballpark) parking lot between 10 a.m. and noon on March 10. The other organizations partnering with Meijer on the giveaway are YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, Feeding America West Michigan and the West Michigan Whitecaps. Workers on site will place the turkeys directly in vehicles. “Meijer cares about the communities we serve and we are pleased to stand beside the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids and the West Michigan Whitecaps to donate nearly 6,000 turkeys to area families in need,” Cathy Cooper, Meijer’s senior director of community partnerships and giving, said in a Wednesday, March 3 news release.

JACKSON, MI -- Big Brothers Big Sisters will have its own space in the new Jackson YMCA facility, in an effort to integrate the two-likeminded organizations, officials said. Big Brothers Big Sisters will have about 1,000 square feet of space in the new facility where adult mentors, called Bigs, and their mentees, called Littles, can utilize the office, YMCA gym, play equipment and Y programming. Jackson YMCA CEO Shawna Tello said the partnership came from calls to integrate related community services in the new facility. The space at the Y gives pairs activities to do, like programming, exercise or even swim lessons. “We have the opportunity to connect these kids that are on these waiting lists with these people that are already community-minded and potentially build a volunteer base for both organizations,” Tello said.

Parents know that keeping kids active and engaged has never been more challenging than in the last year. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, kids have been enduring so much while experiencing many of the life changes of growing up. The YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit hosts a variety of programs for kids that are both virtual and in-person. For example, Its Girls on the Run program works to empower young girls in the community. Girls on the Run is a youth development and social and emotional program for girls in grades (three) through eight,” Picoharczyk said.

The advertiser paid a fee to promote this sponsored article and may have influenced or authored the content. The views expressed in this article are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect those of this site or affiliated companies. I feel safe when I’m there,” Annette said. AdFor those who love sports, the YMCA has many fun programs you can participate in to help you keep your 2021 resolutions on track. To learn more about all they have to offer, watch the full interview above, and click or tap here.

DETROIT – Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott donated $10 million to the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit. “I was stunned, and tell you the truth -- I was at a loss for words,” President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit Helene Weir said. The YMCA in Detroit plans to use the donation for health and wellness programs. Because of COVID-19, the YMCA had to furlough most of its staff and saw a significant drop in donations. The YMCA is now looking for feedback and suggestions and how to best utilize the donation.

ANN ARBOR, MI -- The Ann Arbor YMCA is kicking off a 6-week “Reset” challenge on Monday, Feb. 1 for anyone who needs a little boost to reset their mindset and exercise routine after nearly a year of remote working and stay-at-home orders due to the coronavirus crisis. Toni Kayumi, president and chief executive officer of the Ann Arbor location, said the program is free and open to anyone 18 years old and up. Non-members can access the facility at 400 West Washington St. in Ann Arbor up to three times for free, Kayumi said. If you are a member of the Y, you get prizes as incentives…like a free journal at the challenge. Should non-members decide to join the YMCA after the challenge, the organization will waive the joiner fee, Kayumi added.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Starting Feb. 1, receive motivational texts as part of the Ann Arbor YMCA’s latest wellness challenge. For six weeks, community members can shake off winter blues with the free RESET challenge. They can join a Facebook community and hold themselves accountable with a printable tracking sheet available on the RESET website. During the challenge participants over the age of 18, who are not Y members, will be able to use the downtown Ann Arbor facility three times for free, according to a release from Ann Arbor YMCA. Related: Ann Arbor Rec & Ed offers new winter fitness, enrichment classes online

The Ann Arbor YMCA and Kiwanis Club of Ann Arbor distributed gifts to children in Washtenaw County in time for the holidays. ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The Ann Arbor YMCA and Kiwanis Club of Ann Arbor have teamed up to make sure children in Washtenaw County have gifts for the holidays. Many of the gifts were provided by the Ann Arbor Kiwanis Thrift Shop and staff at Ann Arbor YMCA. “We are so grateful for our collaborative relationship with the Ann Arbor Kiwanis,” said Ann Arbor YMCA President and CEO Toni Kayumi in a release. Together, our two nonprofit organizations hope to help make the holiday season and winter break a little brighter for kids in East Washtenaw County.”Learn more about the Ann Arbor YMCA here or about Kiwanis Club of Ann Arbor here.

BAY CITY, MI - As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc on the country, community organizations are distributing free meals through the end of December into early January for families that need extra help this holiday season. A coalition of Bay County organizations promoting food access is promoting opportunities for residents to receive help, according to a news release from United Way of Bay County. Safe Harbor is located at 706 Joseph St. in Bay City. Bay City Salvation ArmyThe Salvation Army hosts lunches Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., including on Christmas Day. The Salvation Army is located at 401 10th St. in Bay City.

The upcoming holidays and the cold weather make it easy to decide to just stay inside and keep snacking. And with a lot of places closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, staying active may seem like a difficult task. Our sponsor, the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit, has a way for you to get up and get your pulse pumping. Vice President of Operations Kyle Anderson joined Jason Carr to talk about how the various YMCA locations are offering different ways you can get active, and discussed how they are handling social distancing and other precautions. To learn more about all the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit has to offer, and its locations, visit YMCA Detroit.

JACKSON, MI – The campaign to build a new downtown YMCA in Jackson has raised $6 million this year, officials announced Thursday as it closed a $3 million matching grant from Consumers Energy Foundation. A $200,000 donation from Jackson business owner Ric Walton of Walton Insurance Group rounded out the last of the campaign’s matching grant funds in 10 months. She thinks Consumers Energy’s matching pledge made in January – before the coronavirus pandemic hit the U.S. – motivated many in the community and gave the campaign momentum. “It says a lot about Consumers Energy, but it says a lot about our community, too, and the respect that they have for Consumers Energy and for the Y as an organization,” Tello said. “(The pandemic) in a way has demonstrated to our community how vital a role (the YMCA) plays in our community,” McIntosh said.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Starting Friday, members of Ann Arbor’s LGBTQ community and their families can take part in the Y’s new Out to Swim program. Taking place between 7:30-8:30 p.m. on Fridays, the dedicated swim time was created in response to requests from LGBTQ youth. It offers a welcoming space and opportunities for community members to socialize, according to a release by Ann Arbor YMCA. “At the Ann Arbor Y, we strive to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, race, gender, gender identity, gender expression, income, faith, sexual orientation or cultural background has the opportunity to live life to its fullest,” Ann Arbor YMCA President and CEO Toni Kayumi said in the release. Kayumi said a dedicated swim time was discussed when the Y’s leadership team asked local LGBTQ youth about equity and inclusion programs they wanted at the Ann Arbor organization.

President Donald Trump, a man who is famously particular about his appearance, is fully embracing doing a dad dance to the Village People's “YMCA” as the finale to his rallies in the campaign's closing stretch. Trump's rally dance has become a rare moment of levity in an otherwise miserable campaign year marked by a deadly pandemic, an economic recession and racial turmoil. Then order 'Dancing with The Don’ and let President Trump teach you all the hottest moves!" Dancing.”“YMCA,” widely considered a gay anthem, is a relatively new addition to Trump's rally playlist. Trump campaign adviser Jason Miller agreed to reveal the secret to an AP reporter “only if we first get a clip of you singing YMCA.”AP's Jill Colvin declined.

JACKSON, MI – The Jackson YMCA is one step closer to its matching grant goal to build a new facility downtown. The Jackson Community Foundation has contributed $25,000 to The Y’s capital campaign, according to a news release on Monday, Oct. 5. “The Jackson Community Foundation believes a thriving YMCA facility in downtown Jackson will have a positive effect on our community’s overall health and well-being,” Monica Moser, Jackson Community Foundation president/CEO, said in a statement. Related: $1M more for new Jackson YMCA puts match goal $900K awayJackson has had a YMCA since 1896, although the current 65,000-square-foot building at 127 W. Wesley St. was built in 1962. “Grant funding we received from the foundation this summer enabled us to continue community COVID-19 relief work," Jackson YMCA CEO Shawna Tello said in a statement.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – You can now spend more time at the Y. Having begun its phased reopening plan with the reopening of its downtown Ann Arbor facility last week, the Ann Arbor YMCA will extend its hours of operation starting Monday, Sept. 28. YMCA members will undergo mandatory health checks before their reserved times and must be masked in the facilty. Learn more about the Ann Arbor YMCA phased opening plan at www.annarborymca.org/reopening. Ann Arbor YMCA is at 400 W. Washington St.✉ Like what you’re reading?

ANN ARBOR, Mch. – On Thursday and Friday, the Ann Arbor YMCA will hand out free boxes of produce to community members faced with food insecurity. Boxes will be distributed at eight neighborhood sites within Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. In partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture’s Farmers to Families Food Box program, the organization has given out 25 lbs. Updates regarding distributions sites will be made on the Ann Arbor YMCA Facebook page.

The advertiser paid a fee to promote this sponsored article and may have influenced or authored the content. This article is sponsored by YMCA of Metropolitan DetroitA huge dilemma for many parents right now is finding a safe place for the kids to thrive and learn. They have expanded their daycare and learning centers for school age kids, offering safe spaces for learning. Other learning centers for older children are open as well, at different Metro Detroit Locations. You can also visit the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroits website.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. Ann Arbor YMCA has announced a new all-day child care program for school-age children in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. The YMCA Virtual Learning Labs program offers scheduled child care and a supervised place to learn as families adapt to hybrid school schedules. The program will have one staff member for every 10 students and will follow state, local and CDC safety guidelines, according to the Ann Arbor YMCA. Many parents who have to report to work on-site require childcare and light academic support for their kids, especially with local schools teaching students virtually this fall, said Toni Kayumi, president and CEO of Ann Arbor YMCA. Limited openings are also available at the Ann Arbor YMCA Child Development Center, Glacier Hills YMCA Child Development Center and Ypsilanti YMCA Child Development Center.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. The Ann Arbor YMCA is continuing to help feed those facing food insecurity in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. This Thursday and Friday, the Y will hand out free boxes of produce at 10 neighborhood sites. In partnership with the United States Department of Agricultures Farmers to Families Food Box program, the organization has given out boxes of fruit and vegetables from local and regional farmers since June. Unless noted as closed, sites are open to the public. Updates regarding distributions sites will be made on the Ann Arbor YMCA Facebook page.

OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. Farmington Public Schools partnered with the Farmington Family YMCA to offer families a place for their students to learn this year with the introduction of Y Learning Centers. READ: How to find peer-to-peer help for students learning virtuallyThe centers will offer students a scheduled and structured way to learn while they attend classes online. The learning center will also provide games, time outside, arts and crafts, STEM projects and other activities. The centers will be offered at the following Farmington Public Schools: Wood Creek Elementary School, Farmington STEAM Academy, Longacre Elementary School, Lanigan Elementary School, Hillside Elementary School, and Forest Elementary School. READ: Parents concerned about student safety after photo of Metro Detroit school surfaces onlineThe centers are open for K-8th grade students.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. Those facing food insecurity can turn to the Ann Arbor YMCA this Thursday and Friday for free boxes of produce. Since June 3, the Y has given out almost 1,000 boxes of produce every week. This week, boxes will be available at 14 distribution sites. There will be no food distribution by the Ann Arbor YMCA for the week of August 31 nor the week of September 7. Updates regarding distributions sites will be made on the Ann Arbor YMCA Facebook page.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. Continuing its efforts to help community members facing food insecurity, the Ann Arbor YMCA will provide neighborhood sites free produce this Thursday and Friday. Since June 3, the Y has given out almost 1,000 boxes of fresh fruits and vegetables every week. Each box contains produce from regional farmers and is supplied through the United States Department of Agricultures Farmers to Families Food Box program. Unless noted as closed, sites are open to the public. Updates regarding distributions sites will be made on the Ann Arbor YMCA Facebook page.

Washington is seeking $60 billion to save non-profit organizations, including the YMCA, which has already laid off more than 75% of its employees. If funding isn't approved, some YMCA organizations may only be able to stay open for three months. With insufficient revenue, YMCA' across the country will not afford to fund youth programs. Youth sports will sufferpatrickheagney | Getty ImagesThe YMCA serves seven million youth under age 18 through youth sports and after-school programs, according to YMCA officials. Joshua Jacobs, the CEO of TGA Premier Sports, said youth sports organizations need to develop a "high-value proposition" in both in-person and online programs for youth to stay engaged with traditional sports.