Young Mens Christian Association Of Flint

Social Responsibility The YMCA of Greater Flint is the place that can make our community whole - where common ground is plenty, differences are assets and opportunity is for all. We have been listening and responding to our community's most critical social needs for more than 100 years. Y programs, such as our school-based Safety Around Water, community-based Safety Around Water, Income-Based Memberships, Safe Places Afterschool Program and the numerous camps for kids with special needs, are just a few examples of how we deliver resources and support that empowers our community to effect change, bridge gaps, and overcome obstacles. The Y Safety Around Water (YSAW) program is two programs, one based in the schools partnering with Flint Community Schools, the other community based with partners Crim Fitness Foundation, PAL (Police Athletic League). In 2024, 200 4th grade students participated and an additional students in the community program participated in multi-week water safety courses. YSAW provides these students with simple and straightforward ways to ensure their safety in and around the water. The goal of the YMCA of schools and community partnership is to lessen the number of deaths due to drowning, currently the second leading cause of accidental death for youth in Michigan and the nation. This rate of drowning increases if the youth is male, African-American, and impoverished. In a community which experiences a poverty rate of approximately 44% with a large African-American urban population this is an important issue. Overwhelmingly, students who participated in the program improved their swimming safety skills and became safer around water as a result. The YMCA is dedicated to reaching children in ways that will keep them safe and improve their quality of life. Swimming is more than a recreational skill, it's a skill that can save lives, and it is vitally important that we provide this opportunity to kids from all socio-economic groups at an early age. The YMCA of Greater Flint raises money annually to support its financial assistance program. Over, 6,800 people in our community were able to receive scholarships to participate at the Y because of our Partner with Youth Campaign. At the YMCA, we believe that no one should be turned away because of their inability to pay. We provide income-based pricing for memberships, youth programs, and camping experiences throughout the year. Through our partnerships at Camp Copneconic, we are able to provide camping experiences for children with diabetes, cancer, Crohn's and Colitis, children from foster programs and a variety of other unique situations. Through our extensive partnerships, we continue to positively impact our community in the areas of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. These partnerships include Camp Kesem at the University of Michigan, Camp Kesem at Michigan State University, the Sikh Youth Alliance of North America, the Autism Support and Resource Center of Genesee County, Michigan District Lutheran Church, Camp Quality, the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, Hurley Children's Hospital, National Kidney Foundation, and the American Diabetes Association.

Healthy Living The Y is a leading voice on health and well-being. We bring families closer together, encourage good health, and foster connections through fitness, sports, fun, and shared interests. As a result, over 6,800 people in our community are receiving the support, guidance, and resources they need to achieve greater health in sprit, mind, and body. This is particularly important as our nation struggles with an obesity crisis, families struggle with work/life balance, and individuals search for personal fulfillment. Our programs are accessible, affordable, and open to all faiths, backgrounds, abilities, and income levels. In 2024, we provided approximately $914,427 in financial assistance to people who otherwise would have faced economic barriers to participation. We also provide ample opportunities for youth to come to the Y regardless of their ability to pay.

Safe Places Another way the YMCA of Greater Flint is developing youth in our community is through the Y Safe Places initiative. Through this program, the Y provides safe, quality services to youth, grades K-12, residing in the Greater Flint Area at NO COST to families. The two Safe Places sites, provide year-round programming to maximize every opportunity to reach targeted youth. In addition to being easily accessible for neighborhood youth and families, Safe Places has established the following goals: (1) To provide quality care for all children; in a safe, structured environment; (2) To improve quality of life, health, and self-esteem; (3) To support and strengthen the family unit; (4) To help children develop to their fullest potential; and (5) To teach the importance of physical activity throughout life.

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