Welcome to the Y. M. C. A! This summer an increasing number of childcare services have made their way to Vanderhoof through the hands of the YMCA and it’s catchy theme song.
“We love singing the song,” shouted a group of middle schoolers during a YMCA camp day.
The Young Men Christian Association is a Canadian organization dedicated to offering programs tailored to a community’s individual needs.
Taking place at the The Gospel Chapel, the YMCA has started full and half-day childcare programs in March and, have much planned for the future, said Sarah Geisheimer, 26, Vanderhoof YMCA co-ordinator.
“It’s still in the works but we are planning an art program for school-aged children for around October, and a low-impact aerobics program for seniors for sometime in the fall as well,” said Ms. Geisheimer.
The YMCA was offered a one-year agreement with the District of Vanderhoof to deliver recreational programs. So far the enrolment has been high however the YMCA’s long-term role in the community will be defined by what the people in Vanderhoof want, said Chris Kinch, director of membership and programs for the YMCA of Northern BC.
“If you want to build something more sustainable you have to look two-to-three years down the road. So right now were still trying to gather information and make connections,” said Mr. Kinch
The YMCA has started to make appearances at various community events including the recent air show and farmers market. The purpose of the booth is not only to spread awareness of YMCA programs in town but to help make connections with community members. It is expected by mid August the organization will have a much clearer view of what will be coming to Vanderhoof for the fall, and hopefully the office will have set hours by then so people can drop in with suggestions and ideas, said Mr. Kinch.
“It’s a bit of building the plane while your flying it but sometimes you just need to hit the ground running,” said Mr. Kinch.
