METROPOLITAN YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF GREATER FORT WAYNE

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT: Youth programs at the YMCA Of Greater Fort Wayne help create a sense of belonging, instill core values, and encourage young people to discover their purpose and unleash their potential. Youth today face many new challenges. When Cassie returned to full-time work in 2021 after a decade at home raising her three children, she needed to find a way to balance her career with her well-being. Rejoining the YMCA and participating in the Skyline Branch's early morning workouts provided the perfect mix of health and social connection she craved. But the Y became even more crucial for her family when they discovered the Trail Buddies program. Cassie's 14-year-old-son, who lives with multiple brain malformations and developmental delays, has always loved going on bike rides. As he outgrew his toddler bike seat and trailer, Cassie and her husband found new adaptive equipment to be too expensive. That's where the Y's adaptive and inclusive programs made a difference. After signing up for Trail Buddies, the Y's adaptive bike riding program for all ages, their family found a new way to enjoy bike rides as a family. "I'll never forget his face on that first ride," Cassie recalls. "He was so happy and laughed the whole time." The Trail Buddies program has become a cherished part of their spring and summer routine, offering joy and a sense of community. For Cassie, the Y isn't just a place to exercise. It's a supportive network that fosters meaningful connections and offers vital programs for families like hers. "Our membership at the Y is great for me personally and professionally, but it's also amazing for my son. The Y actively looks for ways to include everyone." In 2024, the Trail Buddies broke their previous record by providing 261 rides to individuals with diverse abilities. Thanks to the generosity of our members, the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne granted $921,450 in program scholarships to 4,968 individuals.

HEALTHY LIVING: As part of our newest strategic plan, the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne is committed to moving our community towards becoming one of the top 10 healthiest communities in the United States within the next decade, as measured by the American College of Sports Medicine's American Fitness Index Rankings. Currently the community we serve ranks 83rd out of 100. Through our mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all, the Y is uniquely positioned to positively impact the community we serve by putting the Y within reach of everyone. The Y offers fitness programs for all ages, youth sports, aquatics, plus specific programs to improve health outcomes. The Diabetes Prevention program is one example, helping members make small but important lifestyle changes. When Rhonda received blood work results indicating she was pre-diabetic, she knew she had to act. Unwilling to rely on medication alone, Rhonda discovered the YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program. She immediately felt welcomed and supported by coach Lauren and the friendly members of the group. Rhonda's group bonded over shared experiences, and the program offered a supportive environment where participants exchanged tips and encouraged each other. For Rhonda, adding water aerobics and strength training helped her break through a plateau, giving her more energy and the ability to keep up with her active grandson. "It was comprehensive," she said. "We learned to eat healthier, exercise, and track our progress. It was about making small, actionable steps." Similarly, Priscilla was shocked to learn she was pre-diabetic. With a family history of diabetes, she felt overwhelmed and turned to the Y for support. From her first visit, Priscilla felt safe and encouraged. "Lauren's positivity was contagious." The year-long journey was filled with ups and downs, but Priscilla achieved her health goals ahead of schedule, impressing her doctor and proving to herself that sustainable lifestyle changes were possible. Both women encourage anyone hesitant to take that first step and join. "You won't want to leave," Priscilla assured. "The program gave me a future, a healthy future." Rhonda and Priscilla's stories highlight the life-changing programs offered through the Y's Diabetes Prevention Program, which is recognized by the Centers for Disease Control as meeting the highest quality standards of the National Diabetes Prevention Program. To better serve the community, in 2024 alone, the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne contributed $2,384,238 in financial aid to 34,764 individuals, enabling them to enjoy the benefits of Y membership.