Since 1945, The YMCA in Idaho Falls has been working to help families and youth in the city become pillars of the community. Each sports season, up to 2,000 youth and adults participate in the programs.
The YMCA makes sure to be accessible to anyone who wants to participate by giving financial assistance to those who need help to pay for the sports. The YMCA also has a fitness center that assists people both young and elderly alike.
“We have a lady that comes in two times a week,” said Tanner Rohne, the CEO of the non-profit. “When she started utilizing personal training at the YMCA, she could barely walk up a flight of stairs and participate without some form of balance assistance. She's been in personal training for about six months now, and we have seen a great increase in her balance. She no longer needs the assistance of resources to walk throughout our facility. She's able to go up and down the stairs unassisted, big smile on her face. And she's just built so much confidence in herself.”
Rohne also said there are several programs for families including sports like basketball, soccer, flag football, volleyball and more. Volunteer coaches donate at least 2 hours a week. The YMCA’s childcare program offers care for toddlers up until kindergarten and before and after school care from kindergarten to sixth grade.
“We know that a child's best resource for development is the love and nature and nurture of a community,” Rohne said. “As we've all heard the phrase, it takes a village to raise a child. “We're just an extension of that village for the family. “Providing care, providing love, providing nurture, as well as food and snacks during the day to allow kids the opportunity to grow and play.”
While the back-to-school season is coming up, the YMCA needs volunteers to help gather school supplies. When Christmas comes around, they will open their Christmas tree lots as well. As always, you can call them at 208-523-0600 or check out their Facebook, other social media and their website for more information.