Membership for All
The frosty, long dark days of winter have settled in and with them an occasional weariness creeps into our bones dulling our energy and dimming our spirits. No wonder we find ourselves daydreaming of warmer climes, lying on the sunny beaches of Jamaica or swimming in the tropical waters of Martinique. Alas, for most of us, though, these exotic winter getaways are not in the cards. In lieu of flying off to such alluring locales, though, there exists a very special, cheerful, friendly and downright fun spot right here in this small western Massachusetts town of Westfield. Thankfully, it doesn't require an expensive plane ticket or lots of discretionary income or leisure time. It's open seven days a week and its sparkling clean swimming pools boast some pretty warm water. Its gym is bright and airy and its fitness rooms hold state of the art exercise equipment. But, the best thing about the YMCA of Greater Westfield, by far, is the people. If you're needing a mood elevator through these cold, sunless wintry days, find your way to the red brick building located at 67 Court Street, right next to City Hall. Walk through the doors of our lobby and experience for yourself this unique 120-year old community center, bustling with people from all walks of life. You will see children playing in the pool, teens lifting weights, and adults of all ages working out, playing racquetball, and participating in a wide assortment of classes from book clubs to ballroom dancing to aqua exercise.
If you were to ask our members what brought them to the Y, you would hear a multitude of reasons, from wanting to lose weight to seeking better health to learning a new skill. If you took that question one step further, asking why they still keep coming, you would hear, they feel stronger, healthier, etc...Figured prominently, though, in this medley of reasons would be something very deep and integral to our humanity and that is, they have connected with others; they have formed relationships and friendships. Some would express that the Y has become like family to them, a 2nd home away from home. Truly, what could be more satisfying than that? Surely an island vacation mid winter would be splendid, but that day in and day out knowing that there are people who truly care about you, people with whom you not only have lots of laughs and fun, but who have become an extension of your family, that is what is so special about a YMCA membership.
And, it's available for all. No matter what your income level, you can afford the YMCA.
A new initiative at the YMCA of Greater Westfield is now in place to ensure this reality. It is called, "Membership for All" and it's made possible thanks to the many generous donors who support the YMCA's Annual Appeal. "Membership for All" is an income-based membership program designed for households making below $55,000/year for families and $35,000 for individuals. At its core, this initiative expresses the YMCA's mission to reach out and involve all people in our communities. Perhaps there could be no better time for this initiative to take effect. The increasingly difficult economic downturn holds even more reason to find time in our lives to nurture our families and ourselves.
Thankfully, individuals and families can find a reprieve from the harsh edges of life. Come into the YMCA, have a swim in our sparkling pools, join a fitness class, take some swings at the ball in the racquetball court, or step to the Latin rhythms of the tango dance in ballroom dancing. If you're looking for something a bit quieter, try one of our writing classes or our beginning painting course or if you really want to de-stress, try our mindfulness meditation program.
Cliché that it may be, there is something for everyone at the YMCA of Greater Westfield. Stop by for a tour. We'll help determine your income-based membership rate. Complete a simple application and become a member of one of Westfield's longest standing community organizations. You won't be sorry. More than likely, you might just feel you have made one of the best decisions of your life.
The YMCA of Greater Westfield was founded in 1888 and is 120 years old. Approximately 5,600 members are served from Westfield and the surrounding communities. For more information on Y membership and/or programs or to receive a program brochure, please contact the YMCA at (413) 568-8631.