Category: youth development

2024 Eastside Turkey Trot

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

Get Ready for the Eastside Turkey Trot 5K: A Thanksgiving Tradition You Won’t Want to Miss!

Lace up your sneakers and get ready to burn off some pre-Thanksgiving calories at the Eastside Turkey Trot 5K! This fun and festive event, happening on Thanksgiving morning, is a partnership between the Eastern Community YMCA and Second Sole of Toledo. Whether you’re a seasoned runner, casual walker, or somewhere in between, the Turkey Trot is the perfect way to kick off your holiday celebrations.

Race Day Details:

  • When? Thursday, November 28, 2024
  • Where? Eastern Community YMCA, 2960 Pickle Road, Oregon, Ohio (or choose our Virtual Option)
  • Race Time: Registration opens at 7:30 AM, and the race kicks off at 9:00 AM!

Why Should You Join?

It’s more than just a race – it’s a Thanksgiving tradition! With a fast 5K road course, you’ll run (or walk) through city streets, all starting and finishing at the YMCA. And if you’re really speedy, be the first male or female to reach the one-mile mark and win a turkey – yes, the runner, not the turkey, has to finish the race!

Awards & Prizes:

There’s something for everyone:

  • Overall Male/Female & Masters (40+) and Grand Masters winners get gift certificates from Second Sole.
  • Age group awards go at least five deep, so there’s plenty of chances to win.
  • And don’t forget the Costume Contest! Show off your best turkey-inspired outfit for a shot at the Best Overall Costume, Best Turkey Look Alike, or Race Director’s Choice.

Race Day Perks:

  • Shirts: Pre-register by November 17th to score a LONG SLEEVE TRIBLEND shirt and a $10 Second Sole shoe discount.
  • Refreshments: Post-race goodies include fruit, baked goods, and sports drinks. You’ll also get quick results with disposable bib chips so you can head home and enjoy your Thanksgiving feast.
  • Early Packet Pickup: Beat the rush by grabbing your race packet at Second Sole on November 26th and 27th.

How to Register:

  • Pre-register by November 17th for just $24.
  • Late Registration/Day of Race: $30.
  • Register online at runsignup.com or in person at Second Sole for a $2 discount!

Can’t make it in person? No worries! We have a Virtual Option so you can still support the YMCA Scholarship Fund and keep the tradition alive from wherever you are.

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up today, bring your friends and family, and start your Thanksgiving with a little extra fun and fitness at the Eastside Turkey Trot!

Sign Up Today!

Honoring Our Heroes: YMCA Programs Supporting Military Families and First Responders

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

As we enter Military Family Month this November, the YMCA of Greater Toledo is proud to celebrate the bravery, dedication, and sacrifice of our active duty military, veterans, first responders, and their families. With a range of programs and memberships, we’re here to support the health, wellness, and overall well-being of these heroes in our community, offering specialized memberships, discounted rates, and partnerships tailored to their unique needs.

Task Force 20 Membership: Supporting Veterans with PTSD

In partnership with Task Force 20, a local non-profit, the YMCA offers veterans struggling with PTSD a way to improve their mental health through fitness and wellness programs. Task Force 20’s mission is to connect veterans to supportive activities that help reduce the rate of veteran suicide. Veterans interested in joining the YMCA under the Task Force 20 Membership can reach out to Task Force 20 directly to start this journey.

Hero Discount Membership: Giving Back to Those Who Give So Much

For active duty military, veterans, and first responders, we offer a 15% discount on memberships. This discount is our way of honoring the service and dedication of these individuals. Signing up is simple: visit any of our 10 YMCA locations, let our membership team know you’re applying for the Hero Discount Membership, and provide the required documentation within seven days.

Department of Armed Forces Membership through YMCA Military Outreach

The YMCA of Greater Toledo also participates in the Department of Defense’s Armed Forces Military Outreach Programs. Through this initiative, we offer memberships for military families. Members interested in enrolling should contact their Commanding Officer for further details.

25 Years of Supporting Military Families

For over 25 years, YMCAs across the country have celebrated Military Family Month in November, providing an opportunity for Americans to recognize the sacrifices of military personnel and their families. Throughout the year, YMCA’s programs and initiatives offer spaces for families to connect, kids to build friendships, and adults to achieve their health and wellness goals.

The YMCA’s Military Outreach Initiative has provided over 87,000 Y memberships to military members and families nationwide, and over 164,000 children have benefited from childcare support. The Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA), in partnership with the U.S. government, continues to support these families through programs like the Respite Child Care program.

Learn More

Military Family Month is a time to recognize the dedication and sacrifices made by our military families, and the YMCA of Greater Toledo is committed to supporting these families all year long. Whether through specialized memberships, childcare services, or community programs, we’re here for you.

To learn more about the Y’s military programming visit our hero opportunities webpage .

Thank you to all of our local heroes and their families!

Ten Older Adult Falls Myths from the National Council on Aging

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

Falls Prevention Awareness Week is September 23-27. Falls are the leading cause of injury related ER visits for older adults, the major cause of hip fractures and responsible for more than half of fatal head injuries. Below, the National Council on Aging shares 10 myths related to older adult falls.

After exploring these myths, theYMCA of Greater Toledo wants to remind you that we are here to help! Our Tai Chi for Falls Prevention is an evidence-based program that works to improve balance, muscle strength, flexibility and more. Visit our Chronic Disease and Prevention page for more info.

Myth 1: Falling happens to other people, not to me.

Reality: Many people think, “It won’t happen to me.” But the truth is that 1 in 4 older adults fall every year in the U.S.

Myth 2: Falling is something normal that happens as you get older.

Reality: Falling is not a normal part of aging. Strength and balance exercises, managing your medications, having your vision checked and making your living environment safer are all steps you can take to prevent a fall.

Myth 3: If I limit my activity, I won’t fall.

Reality: Some people believe that the best way to prevent falls is to stay at home and limit activity. Not true. Performing physical activities will help you stay independent, as your strength and range of motion benefit from remaining active. Social activities are also good for your overall health.

Myth 4: If I stay at home, I can avoid falling.

Reality: Over half of all falls take place at home. Inspect your home for fall risks. Fix simple but serious hazards such as clutter, throw rugs and poor lighting. Make simple home modifications, such as adding grab bars in the bathroom, a second handrail on stairs and non-slip paint on outdoor steps.

Myth 5: Muscle strength and flexibility can’t be regained.

Reality: While we do lose muscle as we age, exercise can partially restore strength and flexibility. It’s never too late to start an exercise program. Even if you’ve been a “couch potato” your whole life, becoming active now will benefit you in many ways—including protection from falls.

Myth 6: Taking medication doesn’t increase my risk of falling.

Reality: Taking any medication may increase your risk of falling. Medications affect people in many ways and can sometimes make you dizzy or sleepy. Be careful when starting a new medication. Talk to your health care provider about potential side effects or interactions of your medications.

Myth 7: I don’t need to get my vision checked every year.

Reality: Vision is another key risk factor for falls. Aging is associated with some forms of vision loss that increase the risk of falling and injury. People with vision problems are more than twice as likely to fall as those without visual impairment. Have your eyes checked at least once a year and update your eyeglasses. For those with low vision there are programs and assistive devices that can help. Ask your optometrist for a referral.

Myth 8: Using a walker or cane will make me more dependent.

Reality: Walking aids are very important in helping many older adults maintain or improve their mobility. However, make sure you use these devices safely. Have a physical therapist fit the walker or cane to you and instruct you in its safe use.

Myth 9: I don’t need to talk to family members or my health care provider if I’m concerned about my risk of falling. I don’t want to alarm them, and I want to keep my independence.

Reality: Fall prevention is a team effort. Bring it up with your doctor, family and anyone else who can help. They want to help you maintain your mobility and reduce your risk of falling.

Myth 10: I don’t need to talk to my parents, spouse, or other older adults if I’m concerned about their risk of falling. It will hurt their feelings, and it’s none of my business.

Reality: Let them know about your concerns and offer support to help them maintain the highest degree of independence possible. There are many things you can do, including removing hazards in the home, installing safety features like grab bars or walk-in bathtubs, finding a falls prevention program at the Y or setting up a vision exam.

Refresh Healthy Habits this School Year with the Y

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

September is Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, and as children and families start their new school year routines, it’s a perfect time to reflect on and refresh your family’s healthy habits. As families settle into new school-year routines this month, the YMCA of Greater Toledo is offering tips to help Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan families incorporate healthy eating and physical activity into their lives.

Eat & Drink Healthy

Make water the drink of choice and encourage everyone to fill half their plates with fruits and vegetables by offering two or three servings at every meal. As a family choose a new fruit and veggie every week to taste together. Place a full pitcher of water on the table during meals and allow children to pour their own water. Keep full water bottles available in cars and back packs.

Play Every Day/ Go Outside

Children should have at least an hour a day of unstructured play outside (when possible) and break a sweat at least three times a week by getting 20 minutes or more of vigorous physical activity. Join your children in games that get your hearts pumping and body moving.

Get Together

Eat as a family as frequently as possible. Involve kids in meal planning, preparation and clean up. In addition, take a break from electronics and spend one-to-one time each day together, enjoying one another’s company.

Reduce Recreational Screen Time

Time spent in front of a television, computer, tablet, cell phone or video games should be limited to two hours or less per day. Make a family plan to reduce screen time at home (i.e., turn off screens during meals, charge electronics/screens in the kitchen overnight, go for a walk after a meal, set a timer to remind you to power down the screen).

Sleep Well

Kids and adults need to keep a regular sleep schedule; unwind together in the evenings by reading a book or listening to soft music to ensure your bodies are preparing for sleep. Kids are growing and need 10-12 hours of healthy sleep per night. Adults should aim for seven to eight hours nightly.

YMCA of Greater Toledo and Imagination Station Announce the June Membership Swap

Posted on by Rosalyn Whickum

Toledo, OH –  June is the month for double the fun and double the benefits for YMCA of Greater Toledo and Imagination Station Members. Again this year, the two organizations are partnering to hold their Membership Swap for the entire month of June. This partnership allows members of either organization to experience the benefits and programs of the other at no additional cost. 

“We are thrilled to partner once again with Imagination Station for our annual Membership Swap,” said Shonna Moon, Executive Director of Membership of YMCA of Greater Toledo. “This initiative not only provides added value to our members but also fosters a sense of community by connecting families with new experiences.”

“Imagination Station is excited to welcome YMCA members into the science center to discover, learn and make memories,” said Aubry Hall, Membership and Volunteer Manager at Imagination Station. “Summer is the perfect time for families to explore our community. This partnership encourages healthy, active lifestyles while inspiring a love for STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math.”

What: Annual Membership Swap between YMCA of Greater Toledo and Imagination Station

When: June 1 – June 30, 2024

Details: Throughout the month of June, YMCA members will have free access to Imagination Station, Toledo’s hands-on science center, while Imagination Station members can enjoy full access to all YMCA of Greater Toledo facilities. This unique opportunity encourages families to explore new activities, promote physical wellness, and inspire scientific curiosity.

YMCA Members at Imagination Station:

  • Free science center admission for YMCA of Greater Toledo members

Imagination Station Members at YMCA:

  • Free access to YMCA of Greater Toledo branches

  • Participation in fitness classes, enjoy our outdoor swimming pools (Eastern Community YMCA & Sylvania YMCA / JCC), gym facilities and Family Fun Zones 

How to Participate:

Members must present their valid membership card and a photo ID at the respective facility’s front desk to enjoy reciprocal benefits.

For more information about the Membership Swap, visit https://www.ymcatoledo.org/imagination-station-membership-swap/ 

 

 

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About YMCA of Greater Toledo: The YMCA of Greater Toledo is dedicated to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living, and fostering a sense of social responsibility. With 10 area branch locations offering a wide range of programs, the YMCA is committed to strengthening the community.


About Imagination Station: Imagination Station provides a critical layer of science enrichment by serving as an educational partner for teachers, schools and parents. It’s with a thoughtful blend of exhibits, experiences, education and excitement that Imagination Station inspires visitors to pursue STEM careers in Northwest Ohio.

 

Dive into the Sun: 4 Reasons to Sign Up for Outdoor Swim Lessons

Posted on by Rosalyn Whickum

With the sun shining bright, now is the perfect time to consider taking you or your child’s swim lessons to the great outdoors. Whether someone is just starting out or aiming to refine their skills, outdoor swim lessons offer a refreshing experience like no other. Let’s explore four reasons why diving into outdoor swim lessons can make a splash in your summer routine!

Natural Vitamin D Boost

Embrace the warmth of the sun and soak up its natural goodness during outdoor swim lessons. While indoor pools offer controlled conditions, nothing beats the feeling of sunlight on skin as you swim through the water. Basking in the sun stimulates the production of vitamin D, significant for bone health and overall well-being. So, while perfecting those swim strokes, you and your child can also absorb nature’s vitamin D factory.

Enhanced Spatial Awareness

Outdoor swimming introduces dynamic elements such as shifting sunlight and natural surroundings, enhancing spatial awareness. Navigating these conditions challenges swimmers to adapt and become more attuned to their environment, improving water safety and confidence. Whether adjusting strokes or gauging distances, outdoor swim lessons deepen the connection between body and surroundings.

Connection with Nature

Anyone can find tranquility in nature while practicing swimming skills outdoors. Surrounded by blue skies, fresh air, and the gentle rustle of trees, each session leaves people feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Outdoor swim lessons offer a welcome escape from the daily hustle, allowing youth and adults to focus fully on swim skills.

Community Connection

Forge bonds with fellow swimmers and instructors in the inviting atmosphere of outdoor swim lessons. Whether sharing tips, cheering each other on, or enjoying post-swim snacks, outdoor sessions foster camaraderie and belonging. Building relationships within the swimming community enhances motivation and overall enjoyment of the learning journey.

Experience the joys of outdoor swim lessons and unlock a world of benefits beyond the poolside. From vitamin D boosts to community connections, outdoor swimming offers a refreshing and rewarding experience for swimmers of all ages and levels. Don’t wait any longer—embrace the sun, dive into outdoor swim lessons, and make a splash in your summer routine.

Sign Up Today!

Walk/Bike to School Day Activities Encourages Safer Routes for Biking and Walking in School Neighborhoods

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum
YMCA of Greater Toledo Partners raising awareness for safe routes 
 
The Toledo Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program, of Live Well Greater Toledo and the YMCA along with their partners including the Toledo Public School District (TPS), the City of Toledo Transportation Dept., Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and numerous other participating organizations will join students and families from Garfield Elementary, 1103 N. Ravine Pkwy., Toledo, OH   43605 on May 08, 2024 to raise the awareness of the need for safer routes for bicycling and walking to school.
 
Walk to School Day activities can better the health of students through physical activity, increase student attendance, better academic achievement, create community connectedness, and enhance the air quality around schools. Through a partnership between the Toledo Safe Routes to School program and the City of Toledo, routes most frequently used by students are being improved through infrastructure projects, such as; sidewalk installation, curb bump outs, pedestrian refuge islands, and countdown crosswalks.
 
On May 8, 2024, families with students from Garfield Elementary were encouraged to utilize a remote drop off location at a nearby park (see attached map). Parents of students who typically are bussed or driven to school can utilize the remote drop off as an alternative on this day. Adult volunteers from multiple organizations and the school district will walk the students to school along a route located on N. Ravine Pkwy. This event is supported by the ODOT Safe Routes to School program that provides funding for school districts to encourage students to walk or bike to school. These programs also allow students to practice pedestrian safety, get physical activity before school, reduce traffic congestion around schools, and create healthy habits to last a lifetime. Multiple schools throughout the district will be celebrating National Walk and Bike to School Day on May 8th .  
 
This program is being organized by the Toledo SRTS program, and made possible by funding provided through the ODOT Safe Routes to School Grant. The YMCA was awarded a two year rolling grant for $114,280.00 to continue SRTS education and encouragement programs in the TPS District and to update the current district School Travel Plan (STP) that will identify the infrastructure and non-infrastructure barriers students encounter daily that make it difficult to walk or bicycle to and from school safely and comfortably. The STP update will study the neighborhoods of all 41 K-8 elementary buildings and the high school buildings. The YMCA has been providing non-infrastructure programs such as walk and roll to school days, bicycle fix-it and safety days, walking school buses, and much more in the TPS district since 2014.   
 
 Available for interviews the day of the event: 
Jenny Hansen, YMCA of Greater Toledo, SRTS Coordinator 
Stephanie Bartlett, City of Toledo Transportation Dept.   

Six Tips to Keep in Mind for National Water Safety Month

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

Six Tips to Keep in Mind for National Water Safety Month

May is National Water Safety Month. When the weather starts to heat up, the pools, lakes, oceans, rivers and other bodies of water start calling! While swimming can be a very enjoyable activity this summer, it is important to remind all parents and caregivers of the importance of water safety. The YMCA of Greater Toledo is sharing these six tips on how children can stay safe in and around the water.

Tip # 1: Make sure children know to always ask permission before going in or near the water.

Teaching your children to be water smart is the first step in water safety – be sure they understand the importance of asking permission before going in or near the water.

Tip # 2: Never swim alone without a water watcher.

When children are swimming, make sure they are actively supervised at all times. Teach your children that they should only swim in locations where a lifeguard is on duty, or where a responsible adult agrees to watch the children in the water without distractions.

Tip # 3: Supervise your children whenever they’re in or near water.

Whether it’s bath time or taking a dip in a pool or waterfront, make sure your children are within arm’s reach at all times.

Tip # 4: Don’t engage in breath holding activities.

Both adults and children should not hold their breath for a prolonged amount of time while swimming, as this can be dangerous.

Tip # 5: Wear a life jacket.

Inexperienced or non-swimmers should always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while in or around the water.

Tip # 6: Don’t jump in the water to save a friend who is struggling in deep water.

If an adult or child finds their friend in deep water unexpectedly, their natural reaction may be to jump in the water to try and save them. Even if they are a great swimmer, a panicked person will overpower them, pulling the rescuer under water. The Y’s Safety Around Water program teaches the “reach, throw, don’t go” concept of using a long object to reach for them, and pull them to safety. By using this technique, an adult or child can help their friend without compromising their own safety.

Four Ways to Get the Most out of Summer Camp

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

fOUR WAYS TO GET THE MOST OUT OF SUMMER CAMP

As spring turns into summer, the YMCA of Greater Toledo wants to share four ways that summer camp can help give your child the experience of a lifetime.

Find Your Adventure

Summer is a time for kids to explore and expand the limits of their imagination. At the Y summer child care, every day is a new adventure!

YMCA (School-Age) Summer Adventure participants will enjoy a weekly visit to the Sylvania Outdoor Adventure program and spend all day outside on the campus of the Sylvania YMCA/JCC.

This includes activities like:

• Outdoor Swimming
• Archery
• Fishing
• Canoeing
• Hiking
• Outdoor skills and more

Find Your Spark

In YMCA summer specialty camps, kids discover hidden talents and passions they never knew they had.

Our sports and specialty camps have fun covered from basketball to soccer, legos, and ninjas. Specialty Camps focus on youth development through fun and engaging preschool, school-age, and teenagers curriculums.

Each camp specializes in a unique theme of activities, projects, and more. Some of the camps include:

  • All About Animals Camp
  • Baseball Camp
  • Fit Kids Camp
  • Science Discoverers

Find Your Circle

YMCA Storer Camps is an experience like none other. Kids come away with new skills, confidence and friendships that broaden their perspectives and strengthen their character. a wide variety of skill set tracks and activities, including:

  • Sailing
  • Horseback riding
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • High ropes course
  • Climbing tower
  • Arts and crafts
  • Disc golf

Campers also enjoy nature hikes, campfires, and making new friends, all while learning to succeed in a community environment and of course, having fun!

Find Your Friends

At any of our YMCA camps,  kids will make new friends and have tons of fun as they explore new adventures each day! 

Find your adventure. Find your spark. Find your circle. Find your Friends. Find your Y. Visit  www.ymcatoledo.org/ymca-summer/  to learn more about what the YMCA can offer your child this summer!

And in 2024, national partner Peanuts, along with outdoor-loving Beagle Scout Snoopy, are helping us increase summer camp access across the globe so more kids can experience the adventure. Learn more here.

YMCA Storer Camps

Campers ages 7 through 17 gain self-esteem and confidence by challenging themselves with a wide variety activities, including: sailing, horseback riding, kayaking, canoeing, high ropes course, climbing tower, arts and crafts, disc golf, target or team sports and much more. Campers also enjoy nature hikes, campfires, and making new friends, all while learning to succeed in a community environment and of course, having fun.

Learn More

Specialty Camps

Every year as a break from school approaches, parents are looking for fun activities to keep their children active and engaged. Our camps are the perfect solution! Basketball to soccer, legos and ninjas, our sports and specialty camps have fun covered. Specialty Camps focus on youth development through fun and engaging curriculums for preschool, school age, and teenagers. Each camp specializes directly with a unique theme of activities, projects and more.
Learn More

Summer Child Care

Children enrolled in the Y Summer Adventure Program will have opportunities to experience our unique program, which includes weekly hands-on field trips, an outdoor education day at the Sylvania YMCA/JCC, swimming several days each week, and STEM based programming at our highly rated facilities across the Toledo area. Summer Adventure is about learning skills, developing character, making friends, and most importantly having fun!
Learn More

The Impact of Volunteer Coaches: Empowering Youth Through Sports at YMCA

Posted on by Rosalyn Whickum

The Impact of Volunteer Coaches:
Empowering Youth Through Sports at YMCA

Did you know that every year, the YMCA of Greater Toledo’s Youth Sports program introduces over 4,5000 children to the world of sports and teamwork? It’s an incredible opportunity to shape young lives and foster a love for physical activity that lasts a lifetime. But to continue making this impact, we need your help.

Volunteer coaches play a crucial role in our program, providing more than just instruction on the field. They create a safe and supportive environment where children can learn and grow, instilling values like teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance along the way. By dedicating just a few hours each week, volunteer coaches have the power to make a significant difference in a child’s life.

Learn More
Find Volunteer Opportunities

Becoming a coach at the YMCA means becoming part of a larger family—a community united by a shared mission to empower youth and strengthen communities. While prior coaching experience is helpful, what truly matters is a willingness to serve as a mentor and role model for young athletes.

Our volunteer coaches receive training, equipment, and resources to ensure they feel confident and prepared to lead their teams. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or someone who simply wants to give back, there’s a place for you in our Youth Sports program.

If you’re interested in making a positive impact in your community and empowering the next generation of athletes and leaders, consider becoming a volunteer coach at the YMCA. Visit the Member Service Desk at your local branch or contact the Sports Coordinator to learn more about how you can get involved.

Together, we can make a difference—one child at a time. Join us in building a healthier, stronger community through the power of sports and mentorship.