Young Men's Christian Association of the Inland Northwest

Healthy Living: The YMCA is a leading voice on health and well-being. We bring families closer together, encourage healthy lifestyles, and foster connections through fitness, sports, fun, and shared interests. As a result, 33,116 people in our community are receiving the support, guidance, and resources they need to achieve greater health in spirit, mind and body. This is particularly important as our nation struggles with an obesity crisis, families struggle with work/life balance, and individuals search for personal fulfillment and social connection. Our programs are accessible, affordable, and open to all faiths, backgrounds, abilities, and income levels. In 2024, we provided $1,013,338 in financial assistance to people who otherwise would have faced economic barriers to participation. Health, Well-being and Fitness are cornerstones of the YMCA. Group exercise classes are available for all ages, activity levels and interests. Healthy lifestyles education and support programs are offered that specifically address areas such as cardiac rehabilitation, diabetes prevention and childhood obesity. Wellness Coaches provide guidance with personal fitness at all levels. The following unique programs serve targeted populations with specific health and wellness needs, at no cost. - LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a holistic program for cancer survivors combining physical activity, caring relationships and stress reduction techniques to improve the quality of their lives. - Pathways to Wellness is an individualized program created with health care providers from CHAS Health Clinics, a Federally Qualified Health Center in Spokane, for low-income patients compromised by chronic disease. Sports and Recreation activities and programs bring people together with shared athletic and recreational interests. Youth Sports programs teach new skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Fun and love for the game is emphasized over winning. Aquatics programs offer a wide variety of water activities for all ages. Grant funding provides for low-income children to receive swim lessons at the Y for no charge, promoting water safety for all. Family Time is encouraged throughout the facilities. Everything from the design of the buildings, including dedicated Family Activity Centers, to the programs we offer promotes families having fun and growing together. No-cost special events for families are offered at each branch and off-site at various locations for members, program participants and the community throughout the year.

Youth Development: We believe that all children deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. That's why we help young people cultivate the values, skills, and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health, and educational achievement. Our YMCA programs, such as Early Learning, School Age Afterschool Child Care, Teen Programs, and Day and Resident Camps, offer a range of experiences that enrich cognitive, social, physical, and emotional growth. Youth Development Programs impact numerous young lives in our community. Subsidies and direct financial assistance make participation possible. In 2024, we provided $549,336 in financial assistance to youth who otherwise would have faced economic barriers to participation. Early Learning Programs are for our youngest children, ages 4 weeks to 6 years. We use developmentally appropriate curriculum for these infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. It is our commitment to ensure access to an environment and programming that fosters a love of learning and prepares each child for Kindergarten. Parents play an important role in policy and program decisions. The Central Y Childcare Center is participating in a Department of Early Learning pilot program to establish statewide quality standards for childcare providers equipping children with skills and confidence for Kindergarten and classroom success. School Age Child Care includes licensed before- and after-school child care serving 17 elementary schools in 4 local school districts as well as full day programming on school holidays and summer vacation. Structured time includes dedicated reading time, fun games that reinforce classroom learning, field trips, and daily physical activity. We provide individual attention at the end of their day to make sure each child is progressing. Summer Day Camps offer learning opportunities in a more casual setting. Weekly themes give children the choice to pursue individual interests. A variety of indoor and outdoor activities keep children busy, engaged and entertained throughout the summer months. Summer Food Service Program reduces food insecurity through the summer months for all children in our programs as well as community outreach to low-income neighborhoods. Any child can access meals through the Y, or at any of our outreach sites. Last year we provided 22,344 summer meals and 35,824 snacks at our five locations, including three branches. The Teen Centers offer youth ages 12-18 a safe place to develop healthy relationships with caring adults and peers. Purposeful social time is scheduled each weekend with fun activities, guest speakers and fellowship. Teen Programs improve the quality of life for vulnerable youths from all backgrounds, equipping them to become our future leaders through: - Life-changing mentoring relationships with caring adults - Sustainable life skills through gardening and greenhouse production - Engaging with the community as productive members of society - Motivation through setting and achieving reachable goals - Guidance on basic workplace expectations and job skills preparing tomorrow's workforce - Tutoring assistance fostering student engagement and supporting academic achievement - Team building activities developing social and emotional skills required for strong character - Community service projects teaching the value of giving back and instilling a sense of belonging - Leadership opportunities developing confidence and competence to achieve goals and success in life YMCA Camp Reed provides a comprehensive resident camping program on Fan Lake approximately 35 miles north of Spokane. Programming includes: - Summer resident camp for youth ages 8-14 - Leadership training programs for teens ages 16-18 - Mini-camp for youth ages 6-8 Camp Reed specializes in traditional, resident summer camp activities including arts & crafts, target sports, mountain biking, waterfront activities, and drama. Camp programs also encourage and facilitate opportunities for personal growth and youth development. Camp activities are under the supervision of mature, trained staff and emphasize fun, leadership development, self-esteem, socialization, building confidence and an appreciation of nature. Camp Reed is also utilized by many local non-profit community organizations and schools for youth programs, outdoor education and retreats.