Weekly Update from the CEO

As the sun sets on the fifth week of our closure, we are all beginning to settle into the "new normal" that is working remotely, attending virtual exercise classes, and educating, entertaining, and engaging our children from home. We hope you and your families remain in good health and spirits. This week, I'd like to give you a quick update regarding our initiatives, both new and existing.

 

The Staff Emergency Relief Fund (SERF) was launched late last week. It was created for any West Suburban YMCA employee who has been furloughed due to COVID-19 and is in need of financial assistance. Requests are coming in each day, and we are fortunate to be able to provide some relief to our furloughed staff.

 

We continue to address pressing needs in the Newton community. This week was our third week of delivering groceries to the vulnerable for the Newton Food Pantry. We've delivered well over 500 bags of groceries so far during our new Wednesday morning routine!

 

We also provided Stop and Shop gift cards to our Newton Corner Place residents. The gift cards were generously donated by the Rotary Club of Newton, and we are so thankful for their continued partnership and support.

 

Over the next few weeks our program staff will be reaching out to children who have participated in our Y programs. Staying at home and social distancing is challenging for adults, but even more so for children. We know how hard it is for them to be away from their friends, school and routines.

 

With our "Calls for Kids" initiative, we are hoping to say hello and let them all know we are here and thinking of them. While they are away from our physical building, they are not away from our thoughts!

 

Be sure to check out the Family Fun at Home section of our website to find activities for all ages, updated weekly, from some of your favorite Y program staff!

 

Lastly, we wanted to say thank you again to those of you who have chosen to stay with us by continuing to pay your membership dues in the form of a donation. We have been overwhelmed by your generosity and kindness during this difficult time.

 

It was so wonderful to connect with so many of you via our check in calls. These calls were very special to all of us at the Y, and we'd like to share some of the encouraging and inspiring feedback we received:

Words cannot possibly express how honored we are to be your YMCA. Stay well, be safe and let us know if you need anything at all.

 

With gratitude,

 

Jack Fucci

President and CEO

WEST SUBURBAN YMCA