The Mankato Family YMCA is growing and our facility, parking andcommunity presence need to catch up.The upsurge in membership enjoyed over recent years brings with it a responsibility to provide not only more programming space, but a facility that has reliable plumbing, heating, air conditioning, parking and more. This year, the Y is embarking on a $3 million remodeling and renovation campaign to improve the facility and its service to a growing membership. There are four major components of this plan: Lower level renovation; parking lot expansion; front lobby remodeling; and an expansion of Y programming to the East side of Mankato. 
Lower Level RenovationThe HVAC systems in the locker rooms are either overdue for replacement or near their projected replacement dates. The proposed lower level renovation not only provides a comfortable and consistent experience for members, but provides a complete makeover of the locker rooms themselves: New plumbing, flooring, walls, lockers, equipment and associated amenities. The new HVAC system ensures a comfortable experience for all members, and the addition of new program space that will come with the remodeling satisfies a desire for better accommodations for yoga and other classes. Parking Lot ExpansionEven before the rise in membership, the lack of parking space at the Y was identified as the top area of member dissatisfaction. Many have cited it as a reason for terminating their memberships. During the three peak times per day, the 180 spots in the Y lot are simply not sufficient. The problem is compounded in winter months, with obscured parking stall lines and long walks across the lot to the Y. The too-common results are members being upset with their Y experience before entering the building, and visitors’ first impressions one of congestion. Many frustrated members have cited the ease of parking and proximity at 24-hour fitness centers.
Front Lobby RemodelingAs the community identifies the Y as more a gathering place than merely a fitness center, it should follow that we provide a comfortable place for people to relax and enjoy each other’s company. This should be the first impression upon entering the Y. The planned remodeling opens up the lobby area and places the emphasis on member comfort and amenities. The result will be more lounge area space. A pro shop and breakfast/lunch counter is also in the design in which T-shirts, water bottles and other Y merchandise will be sold along with healthy food items. East Side ProgrammingIt’s time to make permanent an east side presence for the Y. Of health-seekers who are not members of the Y, the overwhelming reason given is location. Through years of anecdotal input, it’s abundantly clear that the community would benefit from an east side presence. And while the specifics of a second Y location remain to be determined, the renovation project includes funds to begin programming at schools, churches and fields. The Y has already made a significant imprint in the area with The Chesley Skate Park on Jaycee Court, which serves pre-teen through college-age skaters and bikers. It’s an exciting environment ripe for further expansion into recreation options such as volleyball, basketball and tennis. The plan’s injection of more programming into the east side is a significant step to demonstrate the Y’s commitment to further benefit the greater Mankato area through our programs and services. Renovation at the Y proves we’re committed to our traditional home and eager to make it work for the growing membership. Meanwhile, we’re responding to the call for YMCA programming on the east side. The Mankato Family YMCA is indeed growing up – rooted in tradition while embracing for an exciting future. |
CONTRIBUTE TO THE 2012 CAPITAL CAMPAIGN HERE |
Personal Training
PERSONAL TRAINING Be the best you yet. Our personal trainers are nationally certified and have educational backgrounds in exercise science-related fields. They work with you to help you reach your goals, whether you are just starting out with your program or training for a triathlon. To learn more about the YMCA personal trainers' backgrounds and get started, please stop by the Life Center, or call 345-9814. Benefits of working with a Certified Personal Trainer: Learn how to begin an exercise program safely and intelligently. Learn the proper use and form for strength and conditioning equipment Increase the efficiency and effectiveness of your workouts Continued motivation Decrease injury risk A ...
Brother/Sister
BROTHER/SISTER PROGRAM Making a positive difference in the life of a kid who needs it. That's the role -- and reward -- of the Brother/Sister volunteer. The Brother/Sister program creates a unique bridge connecting caring adult mentors to youth. Mentors help youth increase their self-confidence, social and communication skills, positive behaviors and and help improve relationships at home, school and within the community. The Basics To ensure mentors and their matches have the betw experience possible we recruit, screen and train mentors. We also provide ongoing support of the relationship and coordinate the monthly group activities. Matches meet once a week for two to three ...
Camps
Summer Camp 2012 A tradition for so many Mankato area youth. Where lasting experiences and friendships take shape. Preschool camps School age camps School age specialty camps Teen Camps Skateboarding camps Helping pay for camp The YMCA is offering kids the opportunity to earn their way to camp. The 2012 coupon book will give kids a chance to earn the dollars to help pay for their camp experiences. To participate, kids and a parent must attend a fundraising meeting on Tuesday, March 20. That will also be an ideal time to register for a camp to make sure they secure a spot.
