“The swimming pool, the aquatic center, definitely an important component not offered in a lot of places, as well as the rec facility, the work out rooms, the gymnasium,” said Grochala. “We certainly want those available for our residents. That’s essentially what the city bond paid for.”
Mike Grochala says the YMCA seems to be trying to focus on youth development and social responsibility.
“They have their healthy living component, the youth development component and a social responsibility component. I think they’re trying to strengthen those other two legs. This has been primarily a wellness center from their operational standpoint, and I think they’re trying to establish those other two legs to help support the overall mission of the YMCA,” said Grochala.
In a statement, the YMCA says the reimagining process will allow the organization to determine a path forward with the right mix of offerings to meet community needs.
“The “Y” is so much more than a fitness and well being center,” said Joan Schimml of the YMCA of the North. “We are most successful when we have a balance of programs and services from Healthy Living, Youth Development, and Social Responsibility,” the statement read.
Schimml said the YMCA must weigh all the option to ensure sustainability now and in the future.
