Summer Hours Begin May 26
We look forward to seeing you at the Y this summer! Please note that summer hours go into effect starting Sunday, May 26.
Galowich Family YMCA
Monday-Friday: 5 a.m.-9 p.m.
Saturday: 6 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sunday: Closed
Morris Community YMCA
Monday-Thursday: 5 a.m.-9 p.m.
Friday: 5 a.m.-8 p.m.
Saturday: 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
Sunday: Closed
Smith Family YMCA
Monday-Friday: 5 a.m.-8 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sunday: Closed
MEMORIAL DAY HOURS
As a reminder, all Greater Joliet Area YMCA locations will close at 1 p.m. on Monday, May 27 in observance of Memorial Day.
Outdoor Fitness Classes Return the Week of June 3
National Water Safety Month: Tips for Keeping Your Family Safe In and Around Water
May is National Water Safety Month, which aims to raise awareness about the well-being of individuals around bodies of water. Swimming is not only a great physical activity, but it’s also a popular pastime enjoyed by families throughout the summer. And, with drowning being the leading cause of death among children, the Greater Joliet Area YMCA encourages you and your family to practice water safety year-round.
If you’re looking to help keep your family safe around the water, you may want to consider these helpful tips before or during your next trip to the pool:
Sign-Up for Swim Lessons
Enrolling your child in swim lessons at a young age is extremely beneficial. Children, ages 1-4, have a decreased risk of drowning when they’ve participated in swim lessons. And, as an adult, it’s always great to take a refresher course or ‘dive’ into swim lessons yourself.
Did you know the Galowich Family YMCA offers a learn-to-swim program for adults?
The Y’s ‘No Fear Fridays’ swim program is underway! Throughout the month of May, adults, ages 18 and up, are invited to learn basic swim skills and improve their health and well-being during this new class on Fridays from 9:15-10 a.m. at the Galowich Family Y, located at 749 Houbolt Road in Joliet.
Swim with a Friend
It’s important at any age to have a friend or family member accompany you while swimming. The risk of drowning can happen at any time, so having a friend or family member close by is important in case of an emergency.
Get Certified or Re-Certified in CPR
Understanding CPR is an excellent life skill to have, and is especially important when you’re around water. Being able to perform CPR during a medical emergency can help to save a life. The YMCA offers CPR classes at its Joliet and Plainfield locations.
To learn more about CPR classes at the Y, visit the Y’s website.
Have a Phone Available for Emergencies
Whether you’re heading to the beach or the pool, be sure to have the ability to contact 911 if an emergency should arise.
To learn more about water safety, check out this great article, courtesy of the American Red Cross.
As a reminder, summer swim lessons will get underway on Monday, June 3. Families are invited to take advantage of the Y’s Early Bird offer and save $5 on Summer 1 swim lessons through Tuesday, May 28. To learn more about swim lessons at the Y, please visit the Y’s website or contact your local YMCA’s Aquatics Director.
Bring Your Family Together: Exciting Activities for Mother’s Day
On Sunday, May 12, the Greater Joliet Area YMCA joins millions of people in celebrating Mother’s Day, a day dedicated to showing appreciation for all mothers and mother-figures. Planning the perfect activity to make your mom feel extra special can be tough, but it can be a simple activity the entire family will enjoy.
If you’re looking for fun, family-friendly activities for your Mother’s Day weekend, you may want to consider these great ideas:
Explore the Outdoors
If the weather permits, take a stroll, go for a bike ride or have a picnic outside. Exploring the outdoors with your mom will give you the opportunity to enjoy the spring weather and each other’s company.
Plan a Trip to the Gym
Kick off your Mother’s Day with a trip to the gym or try a new fitness class together. This is a great bonding activity and it will give you both the energy to tackle your day.
The Y offers many group exercise classes, which are included with your Y membership. And, you can bring your mom to the Y by using one of your complimentary guest passes. When planning your trip to the Y, be sure to use your branch’s online schedule to view all of your favorite free group fitness classes.
Volunteer with the Family
Spend a day with your mom giving back to a cause your family cares about. Volunteering is an excellent way to celebrate Mother’s Day and give back to your community.
Make a Meal Together
Instead of heading to a busy restaurant for brunch or dinner, make a meal for your mom at home. Cooking is a wonderful way to connect with your family and give your mom a break.
Continue the family fun after Mother’s Day at the Y! The YMCA offers numerous family activities and programs throughout the year. To learn more about programs and activities available at the Y, visit our website at www.jolietymca.org.
For additional Mother’s Day activities, check out this great article, courtesy of Country Living Magazine.