Member Spotlight – McPherson Family YMCA
The McPherson Family YMCA, located at 220 N. Walnut, is a non-profit, charitable organization that has been in the community since 1906. Their Board consist of 22 members, all which are volunteers. “The YMCA is blessed with support from United Way, Community Foundation, the MRC and many others,” said Gwyn Muto, McPherson YMCA CEO. The YMCA offers confidential financial assistance with a scale up to 90% and at times has done 100% until members can get back on their feet. “We do not turn anyone away” said Gwyn. “If any counselors, teachers or principals know of any children in the community that are less fortunate and don’t have the means, please let us know. We can get those kids a free membership and a safe place to go. That is what the YMCA is about.”
“We have great fitness equipment, classes and instructors,” said Tyler Glidden, Sr. Wellness Director. “We offer personal training for members and community fitness classes for some of the senior living in town. We have connected with the McPherson High School and have provided instructors to teach YOGA for their physical education classes. We even offer corporate wellness to anyone interested in offering wellness for their employees. It can be a great benefit for employees and potentially lower cost of health insurance.” If interested contact Tyler at the Y, (620) 241-0363.
Kyle Roberts, the YMCA Aquatic Director, informed us that one of the ways the YMCA reaches out to the community is by offering a free, six-week, aquatic SAW (Safety Around Water) program to second graders of the local elementary schools. “The program takes place during the school year and helps kids with awareness of the dangers around an open body of water. After discussing the dangers, the students are then able to get in the water. The program is tailored to each students’ skills and abilities,” said Kyle.
Ameilea Alexander is the Childcare Director and oversees the after school programs at Lincoln and Washington Elementary, with about 30 kids at each site. They currently have a few openings at the Washington School if anyone is interested. They also have an ambassadors leadership program at the Middle School once a week for the 6th, 7th and 8th graders. “We discuss leadership and how they can better improve. The students also get to attend a leadership camp in the summer,” said Ameilea. She also oversees the MRC after school arts program at the elementary schools on Wednesdays for kids interested in working on art.
Meaghan Reamy, the Sports Director, announced the upcoming spring soccer academy on March 31st for 3-6-year olds teaching fundamental skills. She also has a program called Connect which is aimed at middle school students to build team development skills and building friendships.
Check out these photos on Facebook from Chamber Connections hosted by the McPherson YMCA.