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5 Action Steps for Helping Someone in Emotional Pain

Posted on by Rosalyn Whickum

Suicide is a major public health concern and a leading cause of death in the United States, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). However, knowing the warning signs for suicide and knowing how to get help can help save a life.

In honor of Suicide Prevention Month in September, the YMCA of Greater Toledo is encouraging community members to care for themselves and others. Here are 5 action steps from the NIMH for helping someone in emotional pain.

ASK

“Are you thinking about killing yourself?” It’s not an easy question but studies show that asking at-risk individuals if they are suicidal does not increase suicides or suicidal thoughts.

KEEP THEM SAFE

Reducing a suicidal person’s access to highly lethal items or places is an important part of suicide prevention. While this is not always easy, asking if the at-risk person has a plan and removing or disabling the lethal means can make a difference.

BE THERE

Listen carefully and learn what the individual is thinking and feeling. Research suggests acknowledging and talking about suicide may in fact reduce rather than increase suicidal thoughts.

HELP THEM CONNECT

Save the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number (call or text 988) and the Crisis Text Line number (741741) in your phone so they’re there if you need them. You can also help make a connection with a trusted individual like a family member, friend, spiritual advisor, or mental health professional.

STAY CONNECTED

Staying in touch after a crisis or after being discharged from care can make a difference. Studies have shown the number of suicide deaths goes down when someone follows up with the at-risk person.

Learn more about suicide prevention at nimh.nih.gov 

Upcoming Lifeguard Training

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

Lifeguard & Training

Upcoming Training Dates

No Classes Currently Available

 Do you enjoy people and helping to keep them safe? Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively affects the lives of the people in your community. Working at the Y, you’ll discover more than a job – you’ll enjoy a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.

Apply Now

2024 Weight Loss Challenge

Posted on by Rosalyn Whickum

ARE YOU READY FOR THE CHALLENEGE?

Sign Up Today!

Are you looking to make a positive change in your life and achieve your fitness goals? Look no further than the YMCA’s 2024 Weight Loss Challenge! This 8-week challenge is designed to help individuals of all fitness levels take the necessary steps toward a healthier lifestyle while providing a safe, motivating, and supportive environment. Here are seven reasons why you should sign up for the challenge today:

1. A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY

At the YMCA, we are dedicated to creating spaces where everyone can feel welcome, belong, and become their best selves. Our weight loss challenge is no exception, as you’ll be surrounded by a community of supportive individuals who are all working towards the same goal.

2 . EXPERT GUIDANCE

Our experienced wellness staff will be with you every step of the way, providing expert guidance on exercise, nutrition, and healthy lifestyle changes. You’ll have access to personalized coaching and support to help you achieve your goals.

3. A SAFE ENVIRONMENT

Safety is a top priority at the YMCA, and you can feel confident that our weight loss challenge is designed with your safety in mind. Our instructors will ensure that you are using proper form and technique during exercises to prevent injury.

4. MOTIVATION

It can be difficult to stay motivated when working towards a fitness goal, but the YMCA’s weight loss challenge provides the perfect environment to stay motivated and on track. You’ll have the support of your fellow participants, as well as the encouragement of our experienced instructors.

5. ACCOUNTABILITY

Accountability is key to achieving your fitness goals, and the YMCA’s weight loss challenge provides just that. You’ll be held accountable for your progress and encouraged to make healthy choices every step of the way.

6. FUN

Fitness should be enjoyable, and our weight loss challenge is designed to make working out fun! With various exercises and activities, you’ll never get bored and will be motivated to keep coming back for more.

7. PRIZES

Who doesn’t love prizes? The top five winners of the weight loss challenge across the association will receive a gift card, providing extra motivation to work hard and achieve their goals.

Don’t wait any longer to start your journey towards a healthier lifestyle. Sign up for the YMCA’s 2024 Weight Loss Challenge today and experience the benefits of a supportive community, expert guidance, and a safe and motivating environment.

Sign Up Today!

What’s Your Reason to Give on Giving Tuesday?

Posted on by Rosalyn Whickum

Many people associate the Y with a swimming pool, treadmills, or even a place to enjoy a cup of coffee. But the true power of the Y isn’t found within four walls. The Y is in the hearts and actions of every neighbor who believes in our vision of a better “us” and a stronger community for all.

Thanks to the support of neighbors like you, this year we have:

• Provided financial assistance to more than 26,000 community members, ensuring everyone can access our programs and services, regardless of ability to pay

• Provided more than 800 children with essential, life-saving skills through our Safety Around Water and swim lessons

• Served more than 2,600 kids through our childcare services

• Served nearly 1,800 school-aged children in our before and after-school enrichment programs

• Provided summer and outdoor education camp scholarships to nearly 2,200 kids, with priceless experiences and memories to last a lifetime!

• Served  more than 1,400 people through chronic disease prevention programs

• Collaborated with more than 500 local businesses, nonprofits and government agencies to serve our community

As we approach the holiday season, we need your help to ensure we can continue transforming lives. Please give on this
Giving Tuesday, November 2,8 and let’s make our community a better place for all.

Follow the YMCA of Greater Toledo on Facebook, so you can stay informed on all the ways the YMCA is impacting the community. 

Coming Soon: Monthly Experience Programs

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

The YMCA has always been known for its commitment to the community and the well-being of children. Beginning January 2024, the YMCA of Greater Toledo will launch a new “monthly experience” package for our youth sports and programs. This new format will be offered in addition to our traditional eight-week programming, now known as Academy programs. 

The monthly experience offers parents the opportunity to pay for only one month of participation, without any long-term commitment. Parents and guardians will also be able to plan ahead, registering their children for sports and programs four months at a time. 

One of the key advantages of this new program structure is the flexibility it offers families. Parents can now enroll their children in a program without worrying about committing to a long-term schedule.

This means that children can try out different programs and activities, without feeling tied down to one particular sport or program. This freedom to explore their interests and passions is essential for children’s development and growth.

Children will also have the opportunity to socialize and make new friends. The YMCA has always been a place where children can come together and interact with their peers in a safe and supportive environment. With the “monthly experience” package, children can meet new people and form new friendships with every program they enroll in.

Finally, this new program format allows children to develop new skills and talents. Whether it’s trying a new sport or participating in an art class, children can explore their interests and develop new skills that will benefit them in the long run. The YMCA’s experienced instructors and coaches are dedicated to helping children reach their full potential, and this new program format makes it easier than ever for children to access these resources.

We are so excited about the launch of monthly experiences for youth sports and programs. This is a fantastic opportunity for children to explore their interests, socialize with their peers, and develop new skills.  The YMCA’s commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment for children makes it the perfect place for children to grow, learn, and thrive. Mark your calendars! Member registration will open on December 4, and registration for non-members the following week on December 11.  

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