More Than a Gym — A Place to Belong
Our members often say it best, “I love all the programs and activities, but I especially like the friendly staff and atmosphere. Everyone and everything are wonderful!” That simple statement from Rachel at the Benjamin Harrison YMCA reflects what we hope every person feels when they join us: that you’re not just entering a fitness center, you’re stepping into a community.
When you walk through the doors of the YMCA, you can feel it through the energy, the smiles and the sense that you truly belong. For generations, the Y has been more than a place to exercise; it has been a place to connect, grow and thrive together.
Being Welcoming Is Woven Into Our Mission
At the Y, being welcoming isn’t something we do once in a while, it’s woven into every part of our mission. From our staff who greet you by name to the classmates who become friends, the atmosphere is one of encouragement and care.
“Exceptionally welcoming and helpful. Shout out to Cindy, Jenna and Natalie. The Fishers Y is a great experience! Take advantage of their programming and activities. We enjoy being a part of the Y as members! We love the cleanliness of the gym, the friendliness and availability of the staff, and the efficiency and number of machines,” says Byron from Fishers YMCA.
For families, the Y is often where healthy habits are created and memories are made. Parents see firsthand how every child matters here.
“A great place to get healthy and meet other families. Staff is very considerate of all persons in need of accommodations. We love the sports, pool, swimming lessons and the gym upstairs. There is a lot of programs to choose from to meet your health - wellness goals,” says Stacey from the Baxter YMCA.
Celebrating Belonging: Welcoming Week, Sept. 12–21
This month, the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis will take our commitment to belonging even further. We are proud to join Welcoming America, other organizations and YMCAs across the country to celebrate Welcoming Week, Sept. 12–21. Each year, Welcoming Week elevates the growing movement of communities that fully embrace new Americans and their contributions to the social fabric of our country.
Neighbors Coming Together to Celebrate What Unites Us
This week-long celebration is an opportunity for neighbors, both immigrants and US-born residents, to get to know one another and celebrate what unites us as a community. It’s a natural extension of the Y’s mission and what our members already experience every day: a space where everyone is seen, supported and valued.
As Bonita from the OrthoIndy Foundation YMCA puts it:
“Friendly staff who are willing to help members to achieve their goals and enjoy their time while they are getting fit physically and mentally.”
Gary from Irsay Family YMCA at CityWay added:
“Everyone is so friendly and helpful. There are many fun activities and things to do as families too besides just classes, working out in the gym, etc.”
Welcoming Isn’t Just What We Do — It’s Who We Are
At the YMCA, every person who walks through our doors is valued, respected and welcomed. During Welcoming Week and all year long, we live out our promise: welcoming isn’t just what we do, it’s our middle name.
