Member Spotlight- McPherson YMCA
The McPherson YMCA at 220 N. Walnut continues to serve as far more than just a fitness center for the community. From aquatics and sports programs to childcare and wellness opportunities, the YMCA offers activities and services for residents of all ages. Senior Branch Director David Foster explained that the McPherson branch became the 13th full-facility branch of the Greater Wichita YMCA nearly a year ago, opening the door to expanded benefits and renovations. “If you’re a member of the McPherson YMCA, you have full access to all other 12 branches in the Greater Wichita Area,” Foster said. “One reason that’s really exciting, and important, is we have four outdoor water parks, so you can go to any of those for free during the summer.” He added that McPherson members can also take advantage of nationwide YMCA access when traveling across the country.
The YMCA also continues to focus heavily on youth and family programming through childcare, camps, and recreational opportunities. Foster shared that the YMCA’s summer camp program recently began at Lincoln Elementary School with around 30 children enrolled. “We do offer after school childcare and summer camp,” Foster said. “Once the school year starts, we provide after school care at Lincoln Elementary School as well.” He noted that the organization hopes to continue expanding its childcare programming through partnerships with schools and other community organizations. Families can also take advantage of the YMCA’s Kid Zone, gymnastics and tumbling classes, swimming lessons, basketball leagues, and numerous youth fitness activities designed to keep children active and engaged throughout the year.
In addition to youth programming, the McPherson YMCA remains committed to improving the health and well-being of area residents through fitness classes, personal training, and specialized wellness programs. One of its most impactful offerings is the Live Strong program for cancer survivors. “We actually started that Live Strong program as a cancer survivor program, and it is free to anybody in the community that either is going through cancer or has been through cancer,” Foster explained. Participants receive a free YMCA membership during the 12-week program while taking part in strength training, healthy living education, and group support sessions. “Just the camaraderie that that group has is really good,” Foster added. With two indoor pools, a wellness center, spin room, gymnasium, gymnastics gym, pickleball courts, and extensive fitness equipment, the McPherson YMCA continues its mission of enriching the spiritual, mental, physical, and social well-being of the community it has served since 1906. For more information abut the McPherson YMCA and all of the programs they offer visit their website or give them a call at 620-241-0363. Photos taken at Chamber Connections hosted by the McPherson YMCA can be seen here.