Blog — Page 2 — Greater Joliet Area YMCA

Save During the YMCA’s 2026 Summer Kid Zone Sale

July 22, 2026

We know that learning doesn’t end when the school bell rings. The way your children spend time outside the classroom can make a big difference in their personal development and your family-life balance. The YMCA’s Kid Zone Program provides a safe place for children to keep their mind and body active while learning social skills and positive values. Our caring professionals are committed to helping kids build confidence and character.

Registration for the YMCA’s Before and After School Kid Zone program for the 2026-2027 school year is underway!

Families who register for Kid Zone between Friday, July 24 and Monday, August 3 will pay a $0 Registration Fee, a savings of $50!

To learn more about the Kid Zone Program at your local Y branch, click below.

* – Indicates new program for 2026-27 School Year

C.W. Avery Family YMCA – Serving Plainfield School District 202

C.W. Avery Family YMCA – Serving Valley View CUSD 365U

Joliet Community YMCA – Serving Joliet, Troy, and Rockdale School Districts

Morris Hospital YMCA – Serving Morris, Saratoga, Seneca*, and Mazon-Verona-Kinsman* School Districts

Village of Shorewood YMCA – Serving Minooka CCSD 201*

Financial Assistance
At the Y, no one is turned away due to the inability to pay. To learn more about our financial assistance program, please click here or stop by your local branch today.

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Make a Splash: 2026 YMCA Summer Membership Sale

July 22, 2026

Whether you want to learn to swim, start a new workout routine, or spend quality time with friends and family, the Y has something for everyone. And now is the perfect time to join!

Starting July 24 and continuing through August 10, new and alumni members who join the Y will pay a $0 Joiner’s Fee, a savings of up to $120!

OUR FACILITY MEMBERS ENJOY:

Access to Three Branches
Your membership gives you unlimited use of the Greater Joliet Area YMCA’s three YMCA locations in Plainfield, Shorewood and Morris which includes:

Three indoor pools and our family aquatic center, all fully programmed with activities for the entire family, including family swim time, swim lessons, aquatic fitness programs and lap lane access.
Three wellness centers, all equipped with state-of-the-art cardio and strength equipment.
Free fitness orientations and daily group exercise classes (programs vary by location).

Quality Programming
YMCA Facility Members pay lower rates on programs including our before and after school Kid Zone Program, swim lessons, sports programs and personal training, among a slew of other options.

Unlimited Guest Passes
Facility Members may bring one guest per day to the Y.

Refer a Friend Opportunities
Members who refer a friend that joins the Y may also receive a free month of membership. (Some restrictions apply.)

Free Access to the My Y Rewards Program
Upon enrolling in the My Y Rewards Program, you’ll earn points each time you check-in, take a class, or refer a friend to the Y. In fact, you’ll earn your first 50 points for simply enrolling in the program. You can then redeem your points for fun Y swag and program and membership credits.

Financial Assistance
At the Y, no one is turned away due to the inability to pay. To learn more about our financial assistance program, please click here or stop by your local branch today.

So Much More
A complete list of member benefits can be found here.

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JETS Swim Team Set to Host 2026 Fall Swim Clinics

July 22, 2026

The JETS Swim Team offers a range of practice groups, from beginner to advanced, based on age, skill, speed and commitment. To be placed on the beginning level of the team, swimmers must be able to swim freestyle for one length of the pool (25 yards) without stopping while demonstrating the ability to comfortably swim at the surface with arms reaching forward over the water, their face in the water, and taking breaths to the side. They must also swim 25 yards of backstroke without stopping, showing they are comfortable floating on their back while maintaining a rhythmic, supportive kick.

A member of both YMCA and USA Swimming, the JETS prepare for and participate in a variety of meets throughout the year, although competition is not mandatory. The team practices 3 to 6 days per week, depending on group placement, at the C.W. Avery Family YMCA, Village of Shorewood YMCA, and Morris Hospital YMCA branches. Swimmers are encouraged to attend practices and work hard, however 100% attendance is not required.

Fall Swim Clinics

If you’re interested in joining the JETS, please join us at one of our upcoming Swim Clinics. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the JETS and to meet our team and coaching staff. Throughout the week, coaches will be evaluating swimmers for team placement. A YMCA membership is not required to participate in the clinic.

Registration opens for Facility Members on Saturday, July 25 and for Community Members on Saturday, August 8.

Cost: $25

C.W. Avery Family YMCA

August 24-26
5-6 p.m. (Ages 6-10)
6-7 p.m. (Ages 11-17)
REGISTER ONLINE

Morris Hospital YMCA

August 25-27
5-6 p.m. (Ages 6-17)
REGISTER ONLINE

Village of Shorewood YMCA

August 31-September 2
5-6 p.m. (Ages 6-10)
6-7 p.m. (Ages 11-17)
REGISTER ONLINE

To learn more about the JETS, please contact:

Dave Hedden
Director of Competitive Aquatics
[email protected]

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Letting Kids Be Kids: Registration for YMCA Days Out of School Programming Opens on July 25

July 21, 2026

The Greater Joliet Area YMCA offers Days Out of School programs at each of its full-facility branches as well as Messiah Lutheran Church and the Salvation Army Joliet Corps Community Center for children when school is not in session. Whether it’s an Institute Day or Holiday Break, your child is invited to join the Y and kids from all of our Kid Zone sites for days full of fun and adventure.

Children, grades K-8, may be signed in at the Y as early as 7 a.m. and signed out as late as 6 p.m. Advanced registration is required and space is limited. The registration deadline is 48 hours prior to the day of school. Financial assistance is available. CCR&R and DHS funds are also accepted.

REGISTRATION OPENS SATURDAY, JULY 25

Scroll down to learn more about the Day Out of School program available at your local Y branch.

C.W. Avery Family YMCA

Serving: Plainfield School District 202
Program Information

Serving: Valley View School CUSD 365U
Program Information

To learn more, please contact:
Lori Barrie
[email protected]
(815) 267-8600, ext. 205

Joliet Community YMCA

Serving: Joliet District 86 Elementary Schools, Rockdale District 84, Troy District 30C, and Laraway CCSD 70C
Program Information

To learn more, please contact:
Tori Dutkiewicz
[email protected]
(815) 782-0827

Joliet Community YMCA (Teen REACH)

Serving: Joliet District 86 Middle School Students Enrolled in the YMCA’s Teen REACH After School Program
Program Information

To learn more, please contact:
Alana Bailey
[email protected]
(815) 782-0828

Morris Hospital YMCA

Serving students in Morris School District 54 and Saratoga School District 60C
Program Information

To learn more, please contact:
Jordan Overton
[email protected]
(815) 513-8080, ext. 513

Village of Shorewood YMCA

Serving: Minooka CCSD 201
Program Information

To learn more, please contact:
Jenna Duffels
(815) 763-5900, ext. 617
[email protected]

CANCELATION GUIDELINES
Cancelations made less than 72 hours in advance of Day Out of School will be subject to the full program fee for each child registered. Members who are currently receiving financial assistance through the Y’s scholarship fund will be charged their agreed upon Day Out of School fee. Members who are currently receiving financial assistance through the State of Illinois’ Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) will be charged $25. Fees will also apply to students who are registered for Day Out of School, but do not attend.

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C.W. Avery Family YMCA Set to Offer Adaptive Group Fitness Class

July 20, 2026

ALL ABILITIES YOGA
Date: Friday, August 7
Time: Noon – 1 p.m.

The C.W. Avery Family YMCA invites participants of all levels and abilities to engage in movements that are focused on mind and body wellness as well as flexibility. We encourage participants to be prepared to stretch, move, and learn ways to improve their mind and body while meeting others in a welcoming environment.

Cost: Free and open to the community. Registration is required.

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Helping You Live Better: Upcoming Nutrition and Heath Education Seminars at the Morris Hospital YMCA

July 15, 2026

The Morris Hospital YMCA is excited to team up with Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers for nutrition and health education seminars throughout the rest of the year! Free and open to the community, these informative sessions will provide invaluable support and guidance for individuals looking to establish and maintain healthy lifestyles.

All programs will be held at the Morris Hospital YMCA. Open to ages 18 and up.

NUTRITION SEMINARS

Healthy Eating for Kids
Tuesday, August 18
4:30-5:30 p.m.

Join us for an informative seminar designed to help parents and caregivers build healthy eating habits for children. Together, we’ll explore balanced nutrition and active lifestyles for kids, share simple and delicious recipes for busy families, and offer practical tips for packing lunches that keep kids energized throughout the school day. We’ll also provide helpful strategies for handling picky eaters with confidence and ease, making mealtimes more enjoyable for everyone.

Nutrition Tips for GLP-1 Success
Wednesday, September 16
4:30-5:30 p.m.

Are you using Ozempic, Wegovy, or another appetite-suppressant medication? While GLP-1 medications can help reduce appetite, they don’t teach you how to nourish your body properly. Join us to learn how to quiet “food noise” and build sustainable, healthy habits through smart nutrition and practical lifestyle strategies.

Living Gluten-Free? What You Need to Know About Celiac Disease
Tuesday, October 20
4:30-5:30 p.m.

Take control of your health by gaining a better understanding of Celiac disease and the important role nutrition plays
in managing it. Join us to learn practical tips for living a safe, gluten-free lifestyle, from reading labels and avoiding cross-contamination to making confident food choices. We’ll also share helpful strategies for navigating everyday social situations, including school, gatherings, and dining out, so you can feel prepared and empowered wherever you go.

Counting Carbs, Living Well: A Guide to Managing Diabetes
Wednesday, November 18
4:30-5:30 p.m.

Do you or a loved one have diabetes? Gain the knowledge and confidence you need to better manage blood sugar through smart nutrition and informed food choices. In this seminar, you’ll learn how to read and understand nutrition labels, measure healthy portion sizes, and make simple, delicious food swaps that support balanced blood sugar, sustained energy, and overall health.

HEALTH EDUCATION SEMINARS

Help for Migraines
Wednesday, August 19
5:30-6:30 p.m.

Presented by: Shelby Trotter, Clinic RN, and Stephanie Henline, APRN, Morris Hospital Neurology Specialists

This comprehensive seminar will explore the full spectrum of migraine care, beginning with an overview of brain pathophysiology and the common triggers that can lead to migraines. We’ll discuss the impact migraines can have on daily life and mental well-being, and review acute, preventive, and emerging migraine treatments. You’ll also learn about non-pharmaceutical approaches and lifestyle strategies that can help you better manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Building Strength and Mobility As We Age
Wednesday, September 23
10-11 a.m.

Presented by: Tracy Lopina, Physical Therapist, and Belinda Hill, Physical Therapy Assistant, Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers

Age is just a number. It doesn’t define who you are, what you have achieved, or what you can still accomplish. Join staff from Morris Hospital’s Physical Therapy team for an informative session focused on helping older adults stay strong, active, and independent. You’ll learn practical tips to maintain your strength and mobility, improve your balance, prevent falls, and support overall wellness at every stage of life.

Women’s Health at 40 and Beyond
Tuesday, October 6
5:30-6:30 p.m.

Presented by: Heidi Miller, APRN, Morris Hospital Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialists

Join us for an informative and empowering discussion designed to help women better understand their evolving health needs
in their 40s and beyond. This session will explore the physical and hormonal changes associated with menopause, review the benefits and considerations of hormone therapy, and highlight the importance of maintaining strong bone health. We’ll also cover key information on breast cancer and the importance of early detection, giving you the knowledge and confidence your need to take charge of your health at every age.

Arthritis Relief
Monday, November 16
4:30-5:30 p.m.

Presented by: Dr. Belal Said, Rheumatologist, Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers

This engaging and easy-to-understand program, designed especially for seniors, will focus on rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Join Dr. Said to learn practical strategies for reducing joint pain, improving mobility, and staying active so you can continue enjoying the activities you love with greater comfort and confidence.

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