To put christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

Human Services , Physical Fitness & Community Recreational Facilities , Sports , Young Mens or Womens Associations

Youth development the ymca of northwest florida is an association of men, women and children of all ages and from all walks of life joined together by a shared passion to strengthen the community for everyone. Thanks to the generous support of donors, we were able to make the y experience open to everyone, including those who were in need regardless of their financial situation. Last year our local community outreach totaled over 400,000 to ensure that everyone had an opportunity to participate. We have been the community's leader in childcare for more than 40 years, responding to the critical need for quality childcare that supports and strengthens all families. We are dedicated to nurturing the potential of kids in a safe and fun-filled environment where kids and young teens can learn, grow, and thrive together. Last year we reached over 1,400 children in afterschool programs at our branches and on-site at schools, serving about 400 youth on any given day. We are the largest local provider of school-age childcare and continue to expand the quality of our programs through a curriculum that emphasizes educational enrichment and vigorous, active play. During summer months and school breaks, children need a safe program that combats summer learning loss and physical inactivity. Ymca camp promotes hands-on learning and interaction with a diverse group of others - a great alternative to hours of screen time or an empty house - and offers plenty of exercise. We reached over 1,000 children through our summer day camp and school holiday camps last year. The summer camp at the pullum branch and northeast branch proactively served children with disabilities through the national inclusion project's let's all play program. Through our state-licensed voluntary pre-kindergarten program (pullum branch), we develop school readiness skills for 4-year-old's to help prepare them for future success in school. At the end of last school year, every child in this program tested above the state readiness average for children entering kindergarten. We serve 20 children through this program. In y sports programs, we build skills, teach values, and promote fun. An alternative to highly competitive programs, we have no tryouts. Rather, each child plays at least half of every game, and we encourage parent involvement. Last year, over 1,500 children and 200 volunteers actively participated in sports including soccer, flag football, basketball, volleyball, and baseball. In a coastal florida community, our children's safety in and around the water is a top priority. Swim lessons at the y give children the skills to be safe in the water, plus a sense of accomplishment from learning something new and a great way to exercise for life. We taught over 1,300 swim lessons last year, while providing thousands the chance to enjoy recreational pool time. Healthy livingwe believe that personal wellness is vital for the men, women, and children we serve. Our goal is to create opportunities for our members to feel healthy, welcome, and connected as they grow in spirit, mind, and body. This year, over 12,000 men, women, and children from all walks of life gathered at the y for fitness and fellowship. We expand our definition of healthy living beyond our buildings. Our corporate cup games promote wellness in the workplace while building company pride and camaraderie. Weight loss challenges offer adults the support and good-natured competition needed to make lasting changes in their health. Our senior program (pullum branch) provides specific classes and opportunities for physical activity as well as social connection for our active older adult members, who comprise about 20% of our overall membership. Social responsibilitywe believe that the y's resources belong to the community, so we share our facilities with individuals and groups. We open our buildings to community groups such as scouts, churches, and other nonprofits who need a place to meet, work, and pla