We are very excited to announce that the Junior Wolves youth sports program, made possible through an innovative partnership between the Joliet Community YMCA (JCY) and Joliet Junior College (JJC), was recognized as a finalist for the 2026 Governor’s Hometown Award. As part of this honor, a delegation from the YMCA and JJC traveled to Springfield on August 19 to present more about the program and the positive impact it is having on youth in our community.
Officially launched in February 2025, Junior Wolves provides year-round YMCA youth sports leagues and camps on JJC’s main campus in Joliet, giving local youth access to high-quality facilities close to home. Through the program, kids of all ages have the opportunity to learn and train alongside JJC student-athletes and coaches, as well as YMCA staff.
The partnership also extends beyond the playing field. Through the Paws on the Street program, JJC student-athletes volunteer in the YMCA’s after-school Kid Zone program, where they mentor, encourage, and inspire younger students. Together, JCY and JJC are creating opportunities for young people to be active, build confidence, develop meaningful relationships and discover their potential – both on and off the field.
Now in its 18th year with Serve Illinois, the Governor’s Hometown Awards continue to bolster the commission’s mission to improve Illinois communities by enhancing volunteerism and instilling an ethic of service throughout the state.
To learn more about the exciting programs the Joliet Community YMCA has to offer the community, please click here.
Pictured in top photo (left to right): Joliet Community YMCA Sports Director Zach Jarosz, Joliet Junior College Assistant Athletic Director & Assistant Baseball Coach Nick LoFurno, Joliet Junior College, Director of Athletics & Head Baseball Coach Gregg Braun, Illinois State Senator Rachel Ventura, Greater Joliet Area YMCA President & CEO Katy Leclair, Greater Joliet Area YMCA Director of Branch and Program Operations Lisa Behounek, Joliet Community YMCA Executive Director Brooke Hall,, and Joliet Junior College Dean of Student Success Angie Kaysen-Luzbatek.
