We pride ourselves on being more than just a fitness center–we are integrated into our community. Our mission is to put Christian principles into practice by providing programs that promote a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all individuals. In line with this mission, the Y is dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse community where everyone feels a sense of belonging.
Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident in the various programs and initiatives we offer. One of these is our Christian Emphasis program, which aims to keep the "C" in the YMCA by demonstrating the love of Christ through service, encouragement, and caring for the spiritual needs of our members and the wider community. This program serves as a reminder that the Y is not just a physical space, but also a place where individuals of all faiths can come together and find support and encouragement.
Additionally, we offer numerous community-focused programs that are designed to make a positive impact on the lives of those around us. One of these is our Y Healthy Kids Network Backpack Program, which provides nutritious meals to Ohio children in Licking and Muskingum counties, ensuring they have access to healthy food even when they are not in school. Through this program, we are not only addressing food insecurity, but also promoting healthy habits and nutrition in our community.
Another important initiative is our Safety Around Water (SAW) program, which teaches children and families the skills necessary to stay safe in and around water. Drowning is a leading cause of death for children, and through this program, we are working to prevent these tragedies from occurring in our community.
We are also proud to be a part of Five Days of Action, an annual week-long campaign that raises awareness about child sexual abuse and educates adults on how they can prevent it. As an organization that values the safety and well-being of all individuals, we are committed to creating a safe environment for children and doing our part in preventing abuse.
As an organization that values inclusivity and building connections, we participate in Welcoming Week–a week-long event focused on the importance of embracing diversity and creating a welcoming community for everyone. Welcoming Week provides a platform to showcase how people from different backgrounds can come together and build stronger connections. We are committed to continuing this tradition and promoting the message of acceptance and belonging in our community.
We believe that finances should never be a barrier to accessing our programs and services. That's why we offer a financial assistance program that ensures no one is turned away for an inability to afford our fees. Through this program, we are able to provide support and opportunities for those in our community who may not otherwise have access to resources and programs that promote a healthy lifestyle. We are committed to making our services accessible to all, regardless of financial constraints, and strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
Furthermore, the Y acknowledges the importance of diverse representation in our fitness programs. That's why we offer adaptive fitness programs, classes, and equipment to make fitness accessible for all individuals, regardless of their abilities. We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to lead a healthy and active lifestyle, and we are dedicated to providing that opportunity to all.
In addition to our programs, the Y also offers volunteer opportunities in Ohio for our members to give back to the community. By volunteering, individuals can make a positive impact in the lives of others while also building connections and a sense of community.
At the Y, we believe that diversity and inclusion go hand in hand with our mission to promote a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals from all walks of life can come together, feel accepted, and find support. We are committed to making a positive impact in our community and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Join us at Buckeye Valley Family YMCA and become a part of our diverse and inclusive community today.