Category: social responsibility

Rainy Day Blessings

Posted on by Rosalyn Whickum
All rainfall in some way or another is a blessing despite the inconvenience we may feel it causes.
 
Today, the fortieth day after the celebration of Easter on March 31st this year, is Ascension day.
 
It is the day recorded in the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles in the Holy Bible when Jesus ascended in Heaven after His Resurrection. Cathedral and Church bells🔔⛪🔔 in many parts of Christendom will ring today to remind us of this special event.
 
An old tradition has it that Ascension day rain is especially good  if it touches you as it has touched the Lord Jesus as He ascends to Heaven. So let today’s rain fall on you even if it is for a second or two.🌧️
 
The Hymn written by Charles Wesley, the famous Methodist Clergyman
describes this day well:
 
Hail the day that sees Him rise, Alleluia!
 
Highest Heaven its Lord receives,
Yet He loves the earth He leaves,
Though returning to His throne,
Still He calls us all His own, Alleluia!🙏🙏🙏
 
May you feel showers of blessing this day! Amen.
 
– Abimbola Fajobi, Director of Christian Mission

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.

Mental Health Community Care at the Y

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

Mental Health Community Care at the Y

The YMCA of Greater Toledo is always encouraging community members to care for themselves and others.

Mental health is how we think, feel and act. At the Y, we recognize that we all have mental health, and mental health is an important part of our overall health and social-emotional well-being, as well as a core component of our identity.

The Y supports the mental health of individuals and communities in all the work we do to help people reach their full potential—whether that’s teaching life skills to youth in our summer camps, supporting our staff, helping people achieve their best physical health or helping newcomer immigrants access services. This type of non-clinical support is called “community care” and includes:

· Understanding mental health as something we all have—it is how we think, feel, and act.

· Applying positive self-care practices routinely.

· Engaging in conversations in a genuine way, with empathy and the intent of building meaningful relationships.

· Understanding and applying trauma-informed guiding principles when interacting with others.

· Understanding the impact of social determinants of health, systemic racism, discrimination and marginalization on mental health.

· Modeling emotion regulation, co-regulation, and effective coping skills.

· Recognizing signs that someone may be struggling.

· Connecting individuals to primary and specialty support when needed.

· Providing initial response in crisis situations.

· Initiating dialogue and collaborating with others to embed mental health informal care support throughout the community.

All the above are informed by practices found in social-emotional learning, trauma-informed care and suicide prevention. Through this work, we can reduce the risk and impact of mental illness, provide early intervention, and support the process of healing and recovery. We also provide a critical bridge to formal mental health care providers when needed.

 

Everyone can play a role in mental health community care. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Y encourages you to identify simple ways you can care for yourself and others, such as:

 

· Using your powers of observation to notice when someone may be struggling with a hard day, moment or situation.

· Intentionally asking “how are you?” and encouraging honest answers so others can share and feel heard.

· Bringing empathy, compassion and kindness to your daily interactions.

· When you notice someone struggling, connecting them to mental health resources like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (800-273-8255 or https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org).

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.

Press Release: YMCA of Greater Toledo COMMITTED TO SAFETY, ACHIEVES PRAESIDIUM ACCREDITATION

Posted on by Rosalyn Whickum

Toledo,OH – The YMCA of Greater Toledo, has been awarded Praesidium Accreditation® by Praesidium, the leader in abuse risk management. Praesidium Accreditation® is a prestigious honor that publicly demonstrates the organization has worked to achieve the highest industry standards in abuse prevention.

To achieve Accreditation, the YMCA underwent a rigorous process to implement Praesidium’s Accreditation Standards focusing on eight primary operational areas within their business: policies, screening and selection, training, monitoring and supervision, consumer participation, internal feedback systems, responding, and administrative practices. Praesidium then verified the YMCA’s successful implementation of these standards. The YMCA will be accredited for three years, and during this time will commit to uphold fundamental organizational values and stringent safety practices that demonstrate their commitment to protecting those in their care from abuse.

Praesidium Accreditation® provides solid proof of sound risk management practices and the honor distinguishes the YMCA from others in their industry. “We are pleased to send the message that we will not compromise the safety of those in our care—for any reason,” said Brad Toft, YMCA of Greater Toledo, President/CEO. “As an entire organization, we are dedicated and committed to proactively keeping those in our care safe from abuse.”

The YMCA embodies inclusivity, uniting individuals of all genders and ages through a collective dedication to empowering children, advocating for wellness, and cultivating a community-minded ethos. For further information, please visit ymcatoledo.org. 

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About the YMCA of Greater Toledo

The YMCA of Greater Toledo embodies inclusivity, uniting individuals of all genders and ages through a collective dedication to empowering children, advocating for wellness, and cultivating a community-minded ethos.  For further information, please visit ymcatoledo.org. 

Y Achievers is tailored for individuals aged 14-18. It emphasizes high school completion, career readiness, and preparing youth for post-high school life. The program includes homework help, leadership training, career exploration, college/trades preparation, community service projects, work readiness, and life skills development.

About Praesidium

Praesidium specializes in preventing sexual abuse in organizations that serve youth and vulnerable adults. Over a period in excess of 30 years, the company has reviewed over 4,000 cases of abuse within organizations to determine the root causes of sexual abuse within organizational settings. Praesidium employs more than 50 staff, including licensed social workers, lawyers, health care researchers, and other experts. The company has served over 5,000 clients with a broad range of products and services to aid organizations in preventing abuse, including online and instructor–led trainings, organizational risk assessments, model policies, and background checks. Having trained more than one million people online and hundreds of thousands in person, Praesidium is the largest and most comprehensive sexual abuse risk management firm globally. 

CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION
5 DAYS OF ACTION

Empowering Communities: The Impact of Supporting Anthony Wayne YMCA

Posted on by Rosalyn Whickum

Empowering Communities: The Impact of Supporting Anthony Wayne YMCA

GIVE TODAY

Updated: 03.26.24

In a world where many often experience financial barriers, finding ways to support one another becomes vital. Crystal Tollstam, the Executive Director of the Anthony Wayne YMCA, captures the essence of community support in her words: “The YMCA’s yearly fundraiser is crucial for helping people in need in our community.” These words resonate deeply, reflecting the mission of the YMCA to provide inclusive opportunities for all, regardless of financial constraints.

 

At the heart of the YMCA’s mission is the belief that everyone deserves access to programs that promote health and well-being. Thanks to generous donations, the Anthony Wayne YMCA is able to provide memberships and free programming, ensuring that individuals and families from all walks of life can participate. This inclusivity not only fosters physical health but also nurtures a sense of belonging and community spirit.

For Juliana and Josie Gillen, members of the Anthony Wayne YMCA, the impact of this community support is profound. They share, “The YMCA has been a staple in our lives… the level of comfortability is unmatched.” This sentiment echoes the sentiment of many who find solace and encouragement within the YMCA’s welcoming environment. Beyond just a gym, it becomes a place where relationships flourish and personal growth is nurtured.

“The Anthony Wayne Y has had a tremendous positive impact on the lives of my wife and I. We have both experienced life-changing transformations both physically and holistically. Going to Y has become part of an everyday routine and we have seen such great health improvements in our mood, in our sleep, in our cardiovascular and overall strength, increased energy, and in the ability to find balance in our lives. We don't know what we would do without the Y in our lives and feel blessed every day to be a part of the Y family!”
Rob and Nicole Kemmer, Members
“The YMCA's yearly fundraiser is crucial for helping people in need in our community. Thanks to donations, it provides memberships and free programming, giving everyone a chance to improve their health and well-being. By removing financial obstacles, the YMCA ensures that everyone can benefit from its programs. This collective effort not only brings our community together but also shows compassion and support for those facing challenges.”
Crystal Tollstam, Executive Director
“The YMCA has been a staple in our lives since we can remember. More recently as we’ve gotten older, we’ve grown to appreciate the Anthony Wayne branch because of the phenomenal management, friendly community and the level of comfortability is unmatched. Because of the YMCA, we have been able to grow in so many different ways. As me and my sister get older and busier with our schedules going to the gym is the time we carve out to do something together. The YMCA has become such a big part of our lives, and we love our YMCA community.”
Juliana and Josie Gillen, Members
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Rob and Nicole Kemmer’s testimonial further underscores the transformative power of the Anthony Wayne YMCA. They express gratitude for the holistic shifts they’ve experienced, from physical health to emotional well-being. Their story is a testament to the YMCA’s commitment to the wellness of mind, body, and spirit, recognizing that true health encompasses more than just physical fitness.

Supporting the Anthony Wayne YMCA isn’t just about funding a facility; it’s about investing in the health and vitality of our community. It’s about ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, has the opportunity to thrive. By contributing to the YMCA’s yearly fundraiser, individuals are not only supporting their own health journey but also extending a hand to those who may need it most.

The Anthony Wayne YMCA stands as a place where barriers are broken down, friendships are forged, and lives are transformed. Together, let’s continue to support the Anthony Wayne YMCA and build healthier, more vibrant communities for all.

Annual Campaign Watch: Wolf Creek YMCA

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

WOLF CREEK & 2024 ANNUAL CAMPAIGN

This year’s Annual Campaign theme is  “Y for You. Y For All,”.  Annual Campaign impact goes beyond traditional membership fees, driving essential programs and activities that support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

41.2% of the 12,114 members at the Wolf Creek Y receive financial assistance. The Annual Campaign makes this possible, empowering the Y to be a force for positive change in the community. Let’s explore how your contribution to the Annual Campaign can make a significant impact on the lives of individuals and families at the Wolf Creek YMCA.

“The Y gives me a chance to exercise, and it also gives me a great sense of community.” - Bob Lineen

The Wolf Creek YMCA goes beyond traditional fitness programs, offering a diverse range of activities to cater to the varied interests and needs of our members. From pickleball to arts & humanities, and water exercise classes, the Y becomes a hub for active engagement. Bob Lineen, a member, expresses, “The Y gives me a chance to exercise, and it also gives me a great sense of community.” Your support directly contributes to fostering a healthy and connected community.

Youth Programming

Youth empowerment lies at the core of our mission, and the numbers speak volumes. In 2023, more than 3,000 youth participated in various programs, including sports like soccer,  swim and piano lessons. These initiatives not only provide children with self-confidence but also instill a sense of belonging and deliver various physical health benefits.

Personal Training Success Story

The impact of the Wolf Creek YMCA extends beyond the physical activities offered. Personal training testimonies, like that of an 83-year-old member, showcase the life-changing outcomes made possible by your support. “Thanks to personal training with Terri for the past 4 years, I am able to do things most 83-year-olds are not able to do,” shares the member. The Y has become a source of strength, allowing individuals to maintain an active lifestyle and enjoy an exceptional quality of life.

Your Support Matters

The Wolf Creek YMCA Annual Campaign is not just about raising funds; it’s about creating a positive ripple effect that transforms lives. Your support directly contributes to the success stories, statistics, and testimonials that make our community stronger, healthier, and more connected. Join us in giving to the Wolf Creek YMCA’s Annual Campaign, and let’s continue making a difference together. 

Why you should consider a role in YMCA Child Care or Aquatics

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

As a non-profit organization, the YMCA relies heavily on its staff to deliver quality services to its members and the community. In particular, the child care and aquatics departments require qualified staff to fulfill their duties. Without these essential team members, the YMCA would be unable to provide vital services to the community, such as instilling a love of learning in children and teaching them how to swim.

However, like many other businesses and organizations, the YMCA is experiencing a lull in hiring. The biggest needs for staff are in child care and aquatics, which are essential services that cannot be provided without qualified staff. This is where you come in. By joining the YMCA team, you have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of children and adults in your community.

One of the benefits of working for the YMCA is the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. As a staff member, you have the chance to help children learn and grow and to teach them valuable life skills like swimming and water safety. In addition, the YMCA offers several benefits to employees, such as free membership, flexibility, and paid time off. These benefits can make a significant difference in the quality of life for staff members.

Furthermore, working at the YMCA can be an excellent opportunity to learn applicable skills for future employment opportunities. The organization offers training and development opportunities that can help you grow professionally and advance your career. The YMCA also offers full-time positions within the organization, which can provide a stable and fulfilling career path.

Working for the YMCA can be a rewarding experience that offers the opportunity to make a positive impact on the community. By joining the team, you can help provide essential services to children and adults and learn valuable skills for your future career. If you are passionate about helping others and making a difference, consider joining the YMCA team today!

View Open Positions

The Impact of Sharing Your Y Story

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

At the YMCA, we’re more than just a gym or a fitness center. We’re a community where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can come together to grow, learn, and support one another. One of the most powerful ways we do this is by sharing our Y stories with each other.

Your Y story is a unique reflection of how the YMCA has impacted your life. Maybe you found your passion for healthy living through a fitness program, or maybe you met your best friend in a group exercise class. Perhaps you enrolled your child in our Child Care program and saw them develop new skills and relationships.

Whatever your Y story may be, we believe that it deserves to be heard. By sharing your story, you’re not only honoring your own journey, but you’re also inspiring others to discover the benefits of the YMCA community.

We’re inviting members, staff, and volunteers to share their Y stories with us through text, photo, or video. Additionally,  those who submit a Y story on video, will be entered into a drawing for a YMCA gift card.

 
 

EVERYONE HAS A Y STORY

Share yours today!

SHARE CONNECT BELONG

By listening to each other’s stories, we’re able to catch a glimpse of all the hope, strength, and determination across the YMCA and how everyone’s living the Y’s values.
 Beyond the chance to win a prize, sharing your Y story is an opportunity to connect with others and contribute to the larger mission of the YMCA. By listening to each other’s stories, we’re reminded of the values that unite us: Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility.
 

Whether you’ve been a part of the YMCA community for years or are just starting to get involved, we want to hear from you. Your Y story is important, and we’re grateful for the chance to learn from and be inspired by your experiences.

WLRN Women’s Empowerment Panel

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

On October 6 the YMCA of Greater Toledo’s, Women’s Leadership Resource Network hosted a professional development panel that featured insightful women leaders across the community to share their expertise, wisdom, and differing perspectives. 

The panelists included: 

 Lisa Hawker Chief Growth Officer, Hylant Group, Inc

Wendi R. Huntley, Esq. President & CEO, Connecting Kids To Meals

Andrea Gwyn, FACHE President, Mercy Health – St.Anne Hospital

Wendy Pestrue, JD President & CEO, United Way of Greater Toledo

Sharon Speyer Regional President, The Huntington National Bank

The panelist were introduced by WLRN Chair and Eastern Community YMCA Member Experience Director, Erin Fisher. The panel discussion was moderated by Rosalyn Whickum, YMCA of Greater Toledo Digital Media Specialist. Nearly 30 people were in attendance, representing the YMCA and other companies and organizations in the Greater Toledo community. 

“It was such an honor to be on a panel with these amazing community leaders!, said Lisa Hawker of Hylant Group, Inc. 

The YMCA’s WLRN looks forward to holding similar professional development events in the future. 

The event was recorded and is available to view below.