Metropolitan Young Mens Christian Association

HEALTHY LIVING: As part of our newest strategic plan, the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne is committed to moving our community towards becoming one of the top 10 healthiest communities in the United States within the next decade, as measured by the American College of Sports Medicine's American Fitness Index Rankings. Currently the community we serve ranks 83rd out of 100. Through our mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all, the Y is uniquely positioned to positively impact the community we serve by putting the Y within reach of everyone. The Y offers fitness programs for all ages, youth sports, aquatics, plus specific programs to improve health outcomes. The Diabetes Prevention program is one example, helping members make small but important lifestyle changes. When Rhonda received blood work results indicating she was pre-diabetic, she knew she had to act. Unwilling to rely on medication alone, Rhonda discovered the YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program. She immediately felt welcomed and supported by coach Lauren and the friendly members of the group. Rhonda's group bonded over shared experiences, and the program offered a supportive environment where participants exchanged tips and encouraged each other. For Rhonda, adding water aerobics and strength training helped her break through a plateau, giving her more energy and the ability to keep up with her active grandson. "It was comprehensive," she said. "We learned to eat healthier, exercise, and track our progress. It was about making small, actionable steps." Similarly, Priscilla was shocked to learn she was pre-diabetic. With a family history of diabetes, she felt overwhelmed and turned to the Y for support. From her first visit, Priscilla felt safe and encouraged. "Lauren's positivity was contagious." The year-long journey was filled with ups and downs, but Priscilla achieved her health goals ahead of schedule, impressing her doctor and proving to herself that sustainable lifestyle changes were possible. Both women encourage anyone hesitant to take that first step and join. "You won't want to leave," Priscilla assured. "The program gave me a future, a healthy future." Rhonda and Priscilla's stories highlight the life-changing programs offered through the Y's Diabetes Prevention Program, which is recognized by the Centers for Disease Control as meeting the highest quality standards of the National Diabetes Prevention Program. To better serve the community, in 2024 alone, the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne contributed $2,384,238 in financial aid to 34,764 individuals, enabling them to enjoy the benefits of Y membership.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: Every individual deserves the opportunity to learn, thrive, and flourish. The YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne is committed to helping families improve their future through access to the Y's life-changing programs. Banking on Wellness - First Merchant's Bank has always believed in the power of community, and its collaboration with the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne as Mission Partners is a testament to this commitment. For the Commercial Relationship Manager and Market President, the Y is not just a gym - it's the cornerstone of their personal and professional lives. Their connection to the YMCA dates to childhood when their family arrived in Fort Wayne through a refugee program. "The Y welcomed us with open arms, teaching me to swim and providing a sense of belonging." This early experience has come full circle, as she now sees First Merchant's Bank's partnership with the Y as a way to give back to the community that supported her. Also, the Y has been a beacon of stability and community since relocating to Fort Wayne several years ago. Their enthusiasm for the Y's mission reflects the broader commitment to community health and wellness initiatives, which is amplified by First Merchants Bank's mission to elevate financial wellness. Together, First Merchants Bank and the Y offer financial literacy and wellness classes to YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne members, covering topics like saving to purchase a home, understanding loans, and protecting against fraud. "It's about making a difference in people's lives, both financially and physically. That's what gets us excited to come to work every day." As Mission Partners, First Merchants Bank and the Y are ensuring a healthier, more financially secure future for all. This collaboration is one example of how strategic partnerships can transform communities, proving that when we bank on wellness, everyone prospers.