Your Y at Home Newsletter
YMCA OF GREATER WAUKESHA COUNTY

STAYING IN TOUCH

Friday, April 10, 2020

The YMCA has been serving the greater Waukesha County community for over 125 years. On March 18 -- for the first time ever -- we closed our facilities and paused our programming in accordance with Governor Evers’ Executive Orders, so we can do our part to flatten the curve and protect those most vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus.

Throughout our history, we have stayed relevant by adapting to our community needs. Today is no different. We are working to serve our members and community in new ways, and I know together we will emerge stronger. While there is nothing like live classes and in-person connections at one of our Ys, we have invested in virtual fitness and on-demand programs because we know how important it is to you to maintain your health and wellness.

As a supporter of the Y, I want to thank you. Your support of our organization shows just how much you value the Y as trusted community resource. Our hope is that our members and donors continue to support us, which will allow us to further our commitment to helping our community.

Currently, we are focused on supporting our long-term organizational needs to ensure our ability to resume operations when it's safe and appropriate to do so. We have dedicated staff resources to meet critical, on-going communication and response to member needs. Our leadership team is hard at work developing financial models, planning for summer programs, and cleaning facilities for when we re-open.

We miss our talented and creative program staff and look forward to their return to deliver the high quality programs we are known for. We know that initially our YMCA will operate a little differently, but in a short time, we look forward to deepening our community impact. In typical YMCA spirit, we have a can-do attitude.

I continue to be amazed at the dedication and care directed to our organization. Our Board Executive Committee leads weekly conference calls to provide their expertise as we navigate through key decisions. During this time of uncertainty, we know how important it is to continue to engage with our volunteer leadership.

Please know the YMCA is working diligently to ensure the health and safety of our community and to make the best-informed decisions that will allow for our organization to be in a strong position upon your return. Just as you have been a loyal supporter of the YMCA and have been there for us, we are committed to being there for those who need us most.

Hope is what we need most at this time and Easter is such a beautiful opportunity to celebrate and believe in the future. "…There is a message in Easter for people of all faiths and even for those who claim no particular faith at all. Within Easter lies hope, joy, freedom, promise, and second chances." I wish you and your family hope, love, and faith.

Have a blessed Easter weekend,
Chris Becker, CEO