Since I joined the YMCA staff team in September 2000, I’ve learned more than I imagined about this 155 year old local institution whose mission I love. Like
YMCA members, I belong to a place that builds strong kids, strong families, and strong communities. Together we enhance the quality of life for the region.
When I started as the Y’s planned giving director and learned all about “your father’s YMCA” from our Heritage Club members. According to my calculations, joining the YMCA's Heritage Club is akin to taking out a huge life insurance policy on yourself. At the 25 year anniversary of the club a few years ago, over 95% of the original members attended -- still alive and kickin' (or doing Zumba, cardio, or some other activity)! (Dudley Bray would be happy to sign you up, I'm sure!)
Among the lessons learned… Did you know Cincinnati’s own Walter Laufer swam against Tarzan, Hollywood’s Johnny Weissmuller (and won)? (See and read more about Mr. Laufer in the front lobby of the Carl H. Lindner YMCA in the West End.)
How about the beginning of the first
English as a Second Language program in the U.S. in Over-the-Rhine to teach Cincinnati’s German settlers? And the 1893 founding of the Salmon P. Chase School of Law before it went to NKU? All the YMCA.
The good ole days weren’t necessarily so good. Even in some baby boomers’ not too distant memories, Y pools were, uh, clothing-free – something to do with the filtration system, I think. And, it turns out those, um, vibrating belt machines were
designed to do more than make you jiggle.
Needless to say, things have changed.
Let’s start with a look at YMCA leadership. You’ll notice a big difference: diversity! Not only is this $40 million organization headed by the capable hands of its first female CEO, but my colleagues leading the many branches and Association efforts reflect the make-up of our community. As the leader of the YMCA of the USA’s national diversity initiative, our CEO also ensures Cincinnati’s commitment to inclusion.
Our diversity contributes to other changes from your fathers’ YMCA. Like Camp. Sure, campers find the S’mores are as tasty and they still sing the Mangy Moose theme song as loud as before.
Now you’ll find international camp counselors building friendships with teen counselors and campers, making our world a little bit smaller. The high ropes course offers personal challenges that aid self-discovery.
Even though some of the methods may change (
note the Banana Boat and Blue Tree), I’m reminded that there are some constants that remain over time. Exhausted campers (and staff). Gaining new experiences. Warm summer memories.
And summer turns to autumn. As a working mom of two rambunctious boys, I eagerly await the back-to-school season! The YMCA evolved with society and became the largest childcare provider in America.
Today, Cincinnati’s YMCA operates 111 program child care, CincyAfterSchool, and 21st Century Community Learning Center sites, in addition to its 17 branches and summer camp locations. And 90% of the 410 youth in our tutoring program increased an average of 27.5% in their district benchmark scores!
To endure, non-profits, like the YMCA, must constantly assess and adjust to the needs of its community and offer relevant services. No doubt, the changes from your fathers’ YMCA underscore the growth of our great Cincinnati community.