GREATER JOLIET AREA YMCA

The Joliet Community YMCA (JCY) is an innovative initiative that brings vital YMCA youth development, sports, and family programming to neighborhood locations throughout the greater Joliet community.

With offices located on the main campus of Joliet Junior College (JJC), the Joliet Community YMCA partners with area churches, local school districts, and other likeminded community organizations to provide year-round programs for Joliet residents of all ages. This initiative reaffirms the YMCA’s ongoing commitment to equity, access, and innovation in serving the community.

This week, we are highlighting the amazing staff members who bring JCY programs to life. Today we shine the spotlight on the amazing duo of Before & After Care Director Tori Dutkiewicz (pictured right) and Child Care Manager Alex Howard (pictured left). Tori and Alex head up our Kid Zone program, which serves students in Joliet District 86 Elementary Schools, Troy District 30C, Rockdale District 84, and Laraway CCSD 70C. Learn more about them in the Q&A below. 

Q: Can you tell us a little about yourself? Where are you from and what is your background/experience with the Y?

Tori: I was born and raised in Joliet and attended Troy 30C schools, as well as Joliet West High School. I graduated from Benedictine University with a bachelor’s degree in social sciences and a minor in education. I am currently working on completing my master’s degree in child and adolescent development psychology. Prior to joining the Y, I worked in the special education field for 12 years. I have been with the Y since 2023. 

Alex: I am from right here in the Joliet area! My first career was in sales and brand management before shifting to be a stay at home mom. As my daughter got older, I wanted to have an impact on the lives of the youth in our community. I began my Y career working in Kid Zone and at summer day camps. I’m so excited to start my role as Child Care Manager and look forward to helping all the wonderful families at the Y and throughout the community!

Q: Why do you have a passion for youth development?

Tori: Knowing that I have a tiny part in the growth and development of children in our Kid Zone program encourages me to do what I do. I find joy in helping kids discover their passions, accomplish tasks they might find challenging, and create new friendships. I have extensive experience working in special education classrooms and consider myself an advocate for inclusion. I believe in providing a safe space for children to grow and thrive as they become leaders for future generations.

Alex: I know my childhood was deeply impacted by adults providing positive influences in my life. Now that I am a mother myself, I see the need for youth to have consistent and positive support from adults outside of their home and school environment. It’s important for people like counselors, instructors, and coaches to recognize and nourish the great potential of kids in our community.

Q: What stands out about the YMCA community? 

Tori: There is nothing like the community here at the Y! I remember participating in swim programs at the Galowich Family YMCA as a kid, and the experience was fantastic! Now, on a day-to-day basis, I see how dedicated YMCA staff members are developing and maintaining programs for children and families. Everyone is genuinely friendly and willing to assist in any way they can. They put their heart and soul into everything they do. The way we keep our members and program participants at the forefront of our mission is another key way that Y programs stand out.

Alex: The YMCA really is like a family. From the employees to members, the relationships we create with each other are so meaningful and fulfilling, it makes coming to work a very positive environment.

Q: What excites you about upcoming JCY programs?

Tori: As a Joliet native, I am excited to be a part of the Joliet Community YMCA because I know the passion of our team will help Joliet and the surrounding communities grow. I am grateful for the partnerships we have with our local school districts and, as we continue to offer safe and fun before and after school programming, I look forward to enhancing our curriculum to reflect the needs of the students we serve.

Alex: We are so excited to expand offerings for families thanks to our partnerships with the Salvation Army Joliet Junior College, and Messiah Lutheran Church! These youth programs and family events are a great addition to the Y, and we hope to see our Kid Zone students and families there!

Q: What activities do you enjoy outside of the Y?

Tori: When I am not at work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and dog. We love to travel and find new dog-friendly cities to explore. In my spare time, I also like to read and practice yoga.

Alex: My favorite thing to do is spend time with my daughter. I spend time gardening, although right now the garden doesn’t like me very much. I also enjoy going to motocross races and watching various ‘extreme’ sports.

We are so proud to have Tori and Alex leading the way for our before and after school team! To learn more about YMCA Kid Zone, click here.