Category: News & Announcements

Duneland YMCA and Duneland School Corporation announce partnership to develop Chesterton Middle School property

Posted on by Megan Mussche

Duneland YMCA and Duneland School Corporation announce partnership to develop Chesterton Middle School

August 9th, 2022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHESTERT0N, IN, AUGUST 9, 2022 – The Duneland School Corporation (DSC) and the Duneland YMCA (YMCA) will begin talks to transform the current Chesterton Middle School (CMS) into an education, health, and wellness hub. Responding to DSC’s request for a community partner, the YMCA is working to be a catalyst for change and collaboration in Chesterton and the Duneland communities through the development of a healthy living campus on the current middle school site.

The YMCA and DSC have a long and successful history of program, service, and facility-based partnership. The development of the CMS site as the new home of the YMCA would be a continuation and expansion of the relationship between the two organizations. The Y is currently engaged in collaborative discussions with a wide variety of non-profit agencies and major employers in the region. Included in this group of potential, collocated partners are: Town of Chesterton, Duneland Chamber of Commerce, Franciscan Health, Northshore Health Centers, Jacob’s Ladder, Porter Starke Services, and Visiting Nurses Association.

“To better address the expectations of the Y’s members, and meet the needs of the community, the Y was looking to renovate or replace our current facility,” said YMCA Board Chair Elizabeth Adcock. “The opportunity presented by the Duneland School Corporation, and the middle school site will allow the Y to exceed member expectations as well as meet current and emerging needs in collaboration with providers and employers whose work compliments, supplements and supports our own.”

Chesterton Middle School, located between West Morgan Avenue and Porter Avenue in Chesterton, was previously the site of Chesterton High School from 1922-2000. As part of its long-term capital improvement plan to reduce operational costs, DSC is moving from nine school buildings to eight. Plans call for DSC to continue housing district administrative offices, student programs in early childhood, virtual, and alternative education, a wellness clinic for corporation employees, and a 25-meter competition pool for competitive club and school programs on the east side of the current CMS site. Parts of the building west of the pool are not part of future plans and set to close when construction at the Liberty and Westchester campuses is completed. Due to construction delays, the Liberty and Westchester campuses will not be ready for students in grades 7th & 8th until August 2024. As a result, CMS will continue to host 7th & 8th grade students through May 2024. The facility, in need of extensive renovation and site work, will be reimagined and repurposed by the YMCA and its partners.

“Long-term sustainability, evolving relevance, and transformational impact are strategic priorities for the YMCA,” said YMCA CEO Dave Kasarda. “The opportunity presented to the YMCA and our potential partners allows us to address these mandates as well as collaboratively multiply resources, significantly expand our reach and increase access to needed programs and services across a broader cross-section of the Duneland communities.”

The YMCA has moved through a comprehensive planning and investigative process seeking input and direction from its membership and community leaders, as well as current and potential partners.

This insight, along with information provided by nationally recognized consultants and market research has helped the Y envision itself as a catalyst for positive change and collaboration. The YMCA’s volunteer leadership has chosen to engage the school corporation on the redevelopment of the middle school property as a result of its study, the recommendation of its consultants and the endorsement of potential partners.

“The Y has been very deliberate and disciplined in its approach to identifying community needs, seeking collaborative partners and considering locations that will enhance operations,” said Elizabeth Adcock. “We believe that the CMS site and an expanded relationship with DSC affords the Y the best opportunity to change the way we and are partners support each other and serve the community.”

The YMCA is a nonprofit organization, serving over 5,000 people annually via programs, outreach, and events throughout the Duneland Communities. The Duneland YMCA is part of the national YMCA movement, operating in 10,000 communities across the US. The YMCA, which does not deny services due to an inability to pay, serves the community by providing opportunities for individuals of all walks of life focusing on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

“The school corporation is excited about the possibilities this partnership presents for extended and innovative use of the CMS site in service to the entire community,” said Duneland School Corporation Superintendent of Schools Dr. Chip Pettit. “The School Board and I look forward to participating in the development process with the Y and its impressive list of potential partners.”

Locker Rooms Closed August 1-7

Posted on by Megan Mussche

LOCKER ROOMS CLOSED
August 1-7, 2022

The Duneland Family YMCA Locker Rooms will be closed from August 1-7. We are excited to continue our facility-wide improvements with the updating of the Men’s and Women’s locker rooms. Both locker rooms will be closed from August 1-7 for cleaning and improvements. If you rent a locker, please remove your items before August 1.

Please accept our sincerest apologies for this disruption and know you have options! Below are answers to your most frequently asked questions regarding the locker room closure. Please call us at (219)926-4204 if you can’t find what you’re looking for.

We apologize for any inconvenience. We are grateful for your support and patience as we continue to improve our facility!

How long will the locker rooms be unavailable?

The Locker Rooms will be unavailable beginning Monday, August 1, through Sunday August 7th.

Why are you closing the locker rooms all at once instead of staggering the closures?

Due to contractors and maintenance needed, the Men’s and Women’s Locker Rooms must be closed at the same time.

Where can I change clothes?

While we understand the the option is inconvenient, the restrooms located at the front of the building will be available. 

What’s changing in the locker rooms?

We will add new cosmetic touches such as paint and clean the locker rooms. 

We are grateful for your support and understanding! Please continue to check your inbox and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our leadership team with questions or concerns. 

NEW GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES BEGIN IN JUNE

Posted on Updated on by Megan Mussche

New Group Exercise Classes Begin June 6th!

NEWLY ADDED – Additional Group Exercise & Water Exercise (See Updated Schedule Below!)

Beginning June 1st

Water Aerobics: M/W/F 10-11am. Debbie Hurley

Beginning June 6th

  • Cardio Dance – Wednesdays at 9am w/ Lindsey Didelot
  • Les Mills CORE – Mondays & Fridays at 9:45-10:15 w/ Jill in Studio 2
  • Spin Fusion – Tuesdays & Thursdays 9-9:45am w/ Donna Skeesick
  • Strength 101 – Tuesdays & Thursdays 10:15 – 11:00am w/ Donna Skeesick
  • Functional Stretch – Tuesdays & Thursdays 11:15-11:45 w/ Donna Skeesick

Class Descriptions:

  • Cardio Dance: Dance your way to fitness! This dance-based cardio class incorporates a wide variety of medium- and low-impact aerobic dance moves to a variety of high-energy beats. It’s like a dance party!
  • Spin Fusion: This intense, 45 minute class, combines cardio and core! We will spend 30 minutes working through a traditional Spin class with hill climbs, intervals, and sprints, followed by a 15 minute core circuit utilizing dumbbells and body weight. This classes focuses on improving cardio endurance, sculpting and strengthening your core, and building lean muscle.
  • Functional Stretching is a class for all ages, body types, and fitness levels. It combines gentle stretching and basic yoga poses. This class will help guide your awareness to the muscles that may be associated with your aches and pains. Benefits include; improved flexibility, balance, joint mobility, and breath awareness.
  • Strength 101: Strength 101 consists of basic and beginner cardiovascular and strength training exercises. This class is designed to help participants gain stamina, and build lean muscle mass, while increasing balance and flexibility. Perfect for anyone new to exercise and looking for a low-impact group class.

    Benefits

    • Improved muscular strength & conditioning.
    • Improves cardiovascular endurance.
    • Improved muscular balance & function.
    • Improve form and learn modification techniques.
    • Enhanced variety for a more well-rounded workout.
    • Boosts your metabolism.

Summer at the Y!

Posted on Updated on by Megan Mussche

Ready, Set, Summer!

The Duneland Family YMCA is excited to announce swim lessons, the pool schedule, and a summer membership special!  

The Duneland Family YMCA’s 2022 pool season will be May 31-June 29. This summer the Duneland Family YMCA will partner with the Duneland School District to use the pool at the Chesterton Middle School, located at 651 W Morgan Ave, Chesterton, IN 46304, instead of the Y’s outdoor pool. The Duneland Family YMCA will not open its outdoor pool this year due to maintenance needed for the outdoor pool. We are grateful to the Duneland School Corporation and the Chesterton Middle School for their generosity and partnership in allowing the YMCA to use their aquatic facility as the YMCA explores new avenues to serve our community. 

The pool at the Middle School will still host swim lessons, open swim, and aqua aerobics run by the Y. All members and guests will need to enter through Door #11. The pool will be open from 10:00am-3:00pm beginning May 31st. Members can swim in the pool from 1:30-3:00pm Monday-Thursday. The pool is open free to the public and members Fridays from 1:00pm-3:00pm. View the pool schedule at www.dunelandymca.org/swim/   or pick up a copy at the Y. The schedule features Aqua Aerobics, Swim Lessons and Open Swim.

The Y will be offering swim lessons for children ages 3-14. Class sizes are limited to ensure the best teaching outcomes for each child. Private lessons are available by appointment and instructor availability. Registration is open now through June 5 for June lesson session at  www.dunelandymca.org/programs or at the Y Welcome Center.

The Y is making it easier to spend summer at the Y with a membership offer! Join the Y May 9-July 1st and pay no join fee! At the Y, you can enjoy no long-term contracts – which makes joining low pressure and high pleasure.

For more information about the open swim, lessons or any of our other summer aquatic programs, contact Jaime Kenning at (219)926-4204 or [email protected]. For information on Memberships, please contact Megan Mussche at [email protected]. The Duneland Family YMCA, located at 215 Roosevelt St. in Chesterton, is a charitable nonprofit focusing on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. 

2nd Annual Spin-A-Thon

Posted on Updated on by Megan Mussche

2nd Annual Duneland Family YMCA Spin-a-Thon

It’s time to gear up for the Duneland Family YMCA’s 2022 Spin-a-Thon! This annual fundraiser exemplifies the power of community – as we discover the impact we can have when we all come together for a common cause. Win opportunity for others while you ride or dance to raise money and attention to the good works of the YMCA. Your participation and contributions send kids to camp, teaches children to swim, aides seniors, and provides services to those who cannot afford them. Sign – up or donate today! Riders and sponsors needed!

For further information call Megan at the Y at (219) 926-4204.

BLOOD DRIVE – April 8th, 8:00am-1:30pm

Posted on by Megan Mussche

American Red Cross Blood Drive
April 8, 8:00 AM - 1:30 PM

The American Red Cross is issuing an emergency appeal for blood donations as communities throughout the state face a potential crisis with blood supplies dropping to critically low levels. That is why the Y is partnering with the American Red Cross and hosting a Blood Drive on Friday, April 8th, from 8:00am -1:30pm.

Link to register today: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=duneymca

As a thank you, all donors will receive a ‘I Donated Blood’ T-Shirt, while supplies last!

Blood donors are needed now to help ensure lifesaving blood is available for Hoosiers who need it. One donation of blood, which takes less than one hour, can help save up to three lives.O-negative and O-positive blood donors are most needed now. O-negative and O-positive blood is the universal blood type, meaning donations can be transfused to all patients, including trauma victims, cancer patients, and those undergoing surgery. Thank you for doing your part!

More Than A Gym | Spotlight – Dr. John Forchetti & Bruce Dombey

Posted on by Megan Mussche

Our diverse and dedicated members are the fabric of our organization.

So many of our members have powerful stories to share. Read our member spotlight and see why we’re so proud of the community they’ve cultivated.

Bruce Domeby’s energy and enthusiasm is infectious. Bruce began coming to the Y to play indoor pickleball this past winter. Bruce has been around the Y for the majority of his life, but when he began visiting the Duneland Y to play pickleball this past winter, he found he had a special connection with the Duneland Y.

Bruce saw a flyer at the Duneland Y with Dr. (John) Forchetti’s name. Dr. Forchetti is the namesake of our Forchetti Family YMCA Center for Early Learning. Through his generosity and donation, we were able to relocate our Early Learning Center to 270 E. Burdick Road. Bruce was able to arrange a time to meet Dr. Forchetti at the Y this month and thank him for his life-saving work, something that means so much more than any donation could.

20 years ago on March 4, 2022, Bruce woke up to what he thought would be a normal day, until he started feeling some pain in his chest. The pain progressed, so he went into the hospital in Portage.

When he arrived at the hospital, the doctors determined he was having a heart attack and needed to be transferred to Valparaiso for immediate surgery. Bruce’s cardiologist was Dr. John Forchetti, who successfully placed a stent in Bruce’s coronary artery to clear the blockage to his heart, saving Bruce’s life.

Bruce recalls that after Dr.Forchetti had successfully cleared the blockage, everyone cheered like they were at the ballpark and someone had hit a home run. 

Bruce says that he is forever grateful for Dr.Forchetti, that he swung for the fences that day, saving his life and giving him the opportunity to experience many joys, one of the most notable being the joy of having four grandchildren.

These days, Bruce lives life to its fullest, being very involved with multiple sports including several local Pickleball groups. He frequents the Duneland Family YMCA, and you can probably find him on the Pickleball courts at our facility. 

Dr. John Forchetti with Bruce Dombey

HISTORICAL WOMEN IN THE Y MOVEMENT

Posted on by Megan Mussche

HISTORICAL WOMEN IN THE Y MOVEMENT

There is no better time to celebrate the accomplishments and impact of YMCA women than Women’s History Month. At the Y, we are honoring Women’s History Month by recognizing the inspirational roles and achievements that women have made throughout the Y’s history.  

Women have played a vital role since the YMCA’s inception in the United States. Women were commonly included in debating societies, outdoor clubs, theatrical and music organizations, and in due time were included in leadership roles within the organization. 

Let’s go on a journey throughout history to honor and lift up the women who were instrumental in the Y’s legacy. 

1886 When the YMCA was founded by George Williams in 1844, the organization was open only to men. Eventually, the YMCA welcomed women in unpaid roles such as volunteer teachers and fundraisers. However, in 1886 Ellen Brown became the first female YMCA employee as the “boy’s work secretary.”  

Brown started a night class at the YMCA that quickly expanded into a department. It was clear that it was only a matter of time before women were to be recognized and offered paying jobs.  

Ellen Brown via Kautz Family YMCA Archives

1914-1918 Just a few days after the declaration of World War I, the YMCA had already set up and established around 250 recreation centers, known as huts, and would go on to build temporary huts across Europe. These huts were there to support both soldiers and civilians and were manned by thousands of volunteers. There were some notable YMCA supporters who provided assistance during WWI, one of which was Princess Helena. 

Princess Helena Victoria of Schleswig-Holstein became a notable member and chairwoman of the organizing committee of this group. She helped to open the YMCA to women by creating the first YMCA Women’s Auxiliary during the first month of WWI. 

But not only did Princess Helena play an important role during WWI in Y’s history but YMCA records show that 5,145 women served under the YMCA banner during this time. 

Princess Helena Victoria and YMCA women via Kautz Family YMCA Archives

1946 After World War II, women began to take new positions and opportunities that did not exist before war. The world had changed and so did the Ys, welcoming more women and people from different races and religions. By 1946, approximately 62 percent of YMCAs were allowing female members, and shortly after women made up 12 percent of the YMCA’s membership.  

The war empowered women to gain strength and mobility in the workplace. Slowly, more and more women served in a variety of positions in YMCAs across the world.  

Kautz Family YMCA Archives

1963 Violet Pauline King Henry was the first black woman to become a lawyer in Canada, as well as the first black person to graduate from law school in Alberta, Canada.  

In 1963, she became the community branch executive director of the Newark (N.J.) YMCA and later in 1976, she was appointed executive director of the Organizational Development Group of the National Council of YMCAs, the first black woman to hold a position at that level. Henry helped open the path for women and the black community in Y history. 

Kautz Family YMCA Archives

1970 Jean Ann Durades was the first African American woman to become field consultant with the YMCA. In 2019, she was inducted into the YMCA Hall of Fame. Jean Ann has been involved in cultural, civic and change-making activities.   

Durades helped African American and Hispanic youth through their college and career preparation through the YMCA government-funded programs in Chicago for many years. She said in the 2019 National YMCA Hall of Fame Inductee Interview, “I saw these young people growing and becoming more aware of themselves and getting more solid with their commitment to the Y and it was very gratifying.”Durades worked for the YMCA for 27 years between Chicago and Minneapolis. 

Jean Anne Durades via Y Archives

1975 One of the founding members of the San Jose YMCA, Xinia Brenes Jenkins was deeply involved in the Costa Rican youth movement. The Latin American Confederation of the YMCAs reached out to Jenkins for her assistance in instituting a national Costa Rican YMCA in 1975.  

In 1990, she was an important extension and contributor to Latin American YMCAs becoming a development executive. Jenkins’ work for the Costan Rican YMCA focused on providing programs for refugees, relief for those affected by housing shortages, and offering vocational skills training for women and agricultural skills training for Costa Rican Indians. 

Xinia Brenes Jenkins via Kautz Family YMCA Archives

2018 Patricia Pelton from Canada was elected as the first female president of the World YMCA. When elected, she stated, “the women leaders in our movement, past and present, have worked so hard to pave the way and see this day. Inclusion in leadership benefits us all. This. Change. Is. Momentous.”  

The World Alliance of YMCAs awarded Pelton the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. This prestigious medal is presented to YMCA volunteers and staff who have made outstanding contributions to the development of the YMCA in addition to other community work.  

Patricia Pelton via ymca175.com

2021 YMCA of the USA names Suzanne McCormick as Next President and CEO. Suzanne is the 15th person and first woman to lead the Y in the United States. Before joining YMCA of the USA as CEO, Suzanne spent five years as president and CEO for United Way Suncoast and 13 years at United Way of Greater Portland in Maine, including four as president and CEO. 

Suzanne McCormick via ymca.org

Throughout the Y’s 177-year history, many incredible women have helped expand the work of the Y and strengthened the organization’s ability to serve communities around the world. We are proud to honor these women today.

Duneland Y Launches Blood Pressure Self Monitoring Progam

Posted on Updated on by Megan Mussche

Duneland YMCA Launches NEW Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program  

The Duneland Family YMCA will begin offering the YMCA’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program, designed to help participants with hypertension lower their blood pressure by following an evidence-based program that combines blood pressure self-monitoring, nutrition education seminars and personalized support.

The Y developed this program to help individuals better manage hypertension and improve their overall health. According to the American Heart Association, more than 80 million Americans have high blood pressure, but less than half have it under control. Research shows that the simple process of checking and recording blood pressure at least twice a month over four months may lower blood pressure in some people with hypertension. In addition, evidence shows that proper nutrition, particularly with a reduction in sodium intake, may help reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressures.

“The Duneland Family YMCA is proud to launch the Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring program for free to our community,” said Jill Catherman, Healthy Living Coordinator. “The Y is the leading community-based organization dedicated to improving the nation’s health and this program is a great example of putting that commitment into action.”

As part of the Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring program, participants will measure their blood pressure at least two times a month for four consecutive months—a minimum of eight times–and record their blood pressure readings in a self-selected tracking tool. A nutrition education component will encourage the participants to practice healthier eating habits, including reducing sodium in their diet.

The program is free to both members and nonmembers and is facilitated by Healthy Heart Ambassadors, appointed and trained by the Y, who will show participants how to use a blood pressure monitor, encourage self-monitoring and facilitate monthly nutrition education seminars.

The Duneland Family YMCA is looking for adults with high blood pressure who could benefit from participating in this program. Benefits include:

  • A simple, evidence-based program that may lower blood pressure
  • Personalized support from a Y Healthy Heart Ambassador
  • Tips for maintaining cardiovascular health
  • Easy-to-use, portable self-tracking tool
  • Heart healthy nutrition education seminars

Participants must meet the following criteria to participate in the program: 

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must be diagnosed with high blood pressure
  • Must not have experienced a recent cardiac event
  • Must not have atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias
  • Must not be at risk for lymphedema

For more information visit www.dunelandymca.org/bpsm/ or contact Jill Catherman at [email protected].

Valentine’s Day Membership Special

Posted on by Cylie Miller

VALENTINE'S DAY MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL

At the Y, you don’t need a resolution to start a new routine. You’ll find countless opportunities to get moving and experience the joy of better health. All it takes is one first step!

YMCA members enjoy:

  • In-person and virtual fitness options
  • Free new member Wellness Consultation
  • Fun Zone childcare while you work out
  • Unlimited group fitness classes
  • Member-pricing on YMCA programs, including Youth Sports and swim lessons!

Find Your Passion. Find Your Y at the Duneland Family YMCA. Join the Duneland Family YMCA to experience the joy of better health. All it takes is one first step.

LIMITED TIME VALENTINE’S DAY MEMBERSHIP OFFER: Become a Duneland Y member between February 11 – February 15 and pay $0 join fee. If you stay for 3 months, you’ll get 1 month free! It’s our idea of romance.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

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