Eric Basilio Alba, Four Corners Elementary School site director, reads to students at the Salem YMCA as part of its after school program. The program has been suspended but the YMCA continues providing other services during Salem’s “stay home” period. (Submitted photo)
The Salem YMCA is a community service organization that has served the community for over 125 years. The nonprofit focuses on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
The Salem YMCA is in a unique situation with the ongoing construction of a new YMCA building. Its fundraising for the new building continues. When operating, the Y serves over 8,500 members, plus thousands more who attend YMCA camps, use child development services, or enroll in swim lessons and youth sports programs.
According to CEO Sam Carroll, the Y has been doing its part to help navigate the coronavirus. It is currently providing first responders with free childcare in Polk County at Monmouth Elementary School. They are also providing members with access to online health and wellness classes along with educational activities.
Due to social distancing restrictions, all the usual programs and services are on hold. They have provided online fitness classes on their website. Because they could not have their annual Good Friday event, they held a virtual prayer breakfast on Good Friday with Anthony Munoz, a member of the NFL Hall of Fame.
In addition, at the event, they presented the Inaugural John Mistkowi Community Service Award to Salem Chief of Police Jerry Moore. This award is given to someone who consistently demonstrates a commitment to the Salem community and service to others before themselves. A replay of the event can be found at www.theyonline.org.
During this time, the YMCA is in need of sanitizing products. Call 503-581-9622 or visit the website.
People can make cash donations: The YMCA of Marion and Polk Counties, PO Box 110, Salem, Oregon 97308 or donate online: www.theyonline.org
Mary Louise VanNatta is a Salem public relations professional writing regularly for Salem Reporter. During the quarantine, she will be connecting with Salem nonprofits. Tell her about your nonprofit needs at [email protected] and follow her on Facebook.
