Greater Joliet Area YMCA

GREATER JOLIET AREA YMCA

C.W. Avery, Central City, Galowich, Morris

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Safety Starts with You: C.W. Avery Family YMCA Offering American Red Cross Lifeguarding Courses This Spring

With more than 100 years of leadership in aquatic safety, the Y is proud to offer lifeguarding certification courses at the C.W. Avery Family YMCA this spring! Get certified and make a difference in your community. Certifications are valid for two years.

Prerequisites to participate in courses:

-Must be 15-years-old or older

-Must be able to complete a continuous 150-yard swim, two minutes of treading water without the use of hands, followed by an additional 50-yard swim.

-Must complete a timed swim to retrieve a 10-pound object from under 7-9.5 feet of water.

American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification with Water Park Option

The purpose of the American Red Cross Lifeguarding course is to provide entry-level lifeguard participants with the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatics emergencies and to provide care for breathing and cardiac emergencies.

Class Options:

April 24-26 or May 8-10

Please note: Course curriculum includes both in-person and online training. At the end of the course, participants will test for Red Cross Lifeguard, First Aid, and CPR/AED certifications. Optional training/testing for Waterpark Lifeguard certification is available for an additional fee.

REGISTER TODAY

American Red Cross Lifeguarding Recertification

The Lifeguarding Recertification Course is designed for those who have previously completed a lifeguarding certification. Participants will review course content, practice and test skills, and review emergency team response.

Class Options:

April 11-12 or May 30-31

Please note: Course curriculum includes both in-person and online training. Students who successfully complete this course will receive a certificate for Lifeguarding with CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and First Aid.

REGISTER TODAY

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YMCA Staff Profile: Meet JETS Assistant Head Swim Coach Manny Arriola

The JETS YMCA Swim Team, one of the area’s most historic youth swimming clubs, is a year-round competitive swimming program that offers instruction and training for swimmers, ages six and up. This fall, we were excited to welcome Manny Arriola as the team’s assistant head swim coach. Manny has been a familiar face in YMCA aquatics programs for the past three years, and brings a wide range of instructional experience to his new role. You can learn more about him in the Q&A below.

Q: Can you describe your background in aquatics and past experience with the YMCA?

My swimming journey began when I was nine years old. I swam for the Chicago Wolfpack Aquatic Club (CWAC) until I started high school. I then became a member of the swim and water polo teams at Saint Ignatius College Prep in Chicago.

I started my coaching career in September 2023 as an assistant for the JETS, and I have enjoyed working with all the amazing staff and coaches I have met during my time here. I have learned a lot about coaching from all of them. In addition to working with the JETS, I previously served as head lifeguard at the Galowich Family YMCA, which allowed me to teach training classes to prospective lifeguards. I have also worked with swimmers as a private swim instructor. 

Q: Why are you passionate about the JETS program?

With my competitive swimming background, I’ve always had a strong desire to stay connected to the sport. I gained countless life lessons as a swimmer and becoming a coach has given me the chance to give back to the community. Coaching for the JETS has given me a new perspective and allowed me to help shape the next generation of swimmers, both in the pool and in their day-to-day lives. What makes this experience even more meaningful is that I share the core values of the JETS and the YMCA as a whole. Supporting swimmers and their growth – physically, mentally, and emotionally – has been incredibly fulfilling. I’m truly grateful to be part of a community that reflects the values I believe in, and I’m proud to represent both the JETS and the YMCA

Q: What are the most important things parents/swimmers should know about the benefits of YMCA aquatics programming?

One important thing for parents and swimmers to understand is that YMCA aquatics programs go far beyond teaching swim lessons, they also help instill valuable life skills along the way.  From the earliest days of learning to float, to developing resilience after a tough race, every step becomes part of a meaningful Y story- one filled with growth, encouragement, and achievement. We also emphasize that our programs are inclusive, welcoming swimmers of all ages and skill levels. And, with the dedicated work of our instructors and directors, swimming at the Y is truly life-changing. It’s inspiring to witness how the Y transforms beginners into confident swimmers and more confident individuals overall.

Q: What is your overall coaching philosophy? 

I believe coaching goes beyond teaching technique; it’s about being a mentor and a positive influence. My coaching philosophy centers on empowering swimmers for personal growth in addition to athletic development. As a coach, I strive to instill the core values of the YMCA while helping swimmers build confidence, character, and resilience. Swimming uniquely combines individual achievement with team unity, offering a space where athletes learn to push themselves independently while supporting and growing alongside their teammates. Swimmers have the opportunity to meet new people, form friendships, and have fun – all while learning new skills. My goal is for swimmers to one day look back and recognize how much they improved not only as athletes, but as individuals. It’s this balance that makes the sport, and the coaching role, so meaningful.

Q: What are things to watch from the JETS during the fall/winter season?

With more than 200 swimmers, this is the largest the JETS team has ever been and we are so proud to expand our reach throughout the communities we serve. The launch of the JETS program at the Morris Hospital YMCA is a huge development. Welcoming a wave of new swimmers from Morris and the surrounding communities of Grundy County has been a great step forward for the program. Another milestone on the horizon is the anticipated opening of the new Village of Shorewood YMCA next spring, which will continue the expansion of the JETS program. The prospect of bringing in new swimmers and hosting more meets has generated a lot of enthusiasm among swimmers and families alike. It’s truly an exciting time to be a part of the JETS.

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time outside the Y?

I have a variety of hobbies, but swimming remains one of my favorite ways to relax during my free time.  I still swim recreationally during my time off. If I had to choose my favorite swim strokes, I would pick backstroke and freestyle, but my favorite events overall are the individual medleys. I also enjoy reading, especially philosophy books and comic books, which I enjoy for their thought-provoking ideas and creative storytelling.

We are so excited to have Manny helping lead our JETS! To learn more about YMCA aquatics programs, click here.

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YMCA Staff Profile: Meet Aquatics Director Coni Schram

The Morris Hospital YMCA is proud to welcome Coni Schram as our new Aquatics Director! Coni brings more than 20 years of aquatics experience to the Y, and we know she will do an amazing job leading programs in our lap pool. You can learn more about Coni in the Q&A below. 

Q: Where are you from and what is your background in aquatics? 

I live in New Lenox where I was an Aquatics Supervisor at Lincoln-Way High School for 24 years. 

Q: Why were you interested in joining the Y team? 

The culture. Right from the start, I have been welcomed with open arms and embraced with a supportive environment by the staff team and members.  

Q: What do you find most rewarding/inspiring about working in aquatics? 

I love to see the progression of a person who is learning to swim. It is very rewarding to see the advancement in skill and watch confidence grow. 

Q: How can members of the community benefit from YMCA aquatics programs? 

There are a lot of programs our members can benefit from. We offer group swim lessons, private swim lessons, and adaptive swim lessons. We also offer multiple water exercise classes that have numerous advantages: enhancing cardiovascular health, improving strength and flexibility, and aiding in stress management, all while being low-impact on joints and muscles. 

]You don’t have to be an expert swimmer to enjoy the programs and benefits of our pool.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time? 

I love being outside. I enjoy sports, travel and spending time with my family.

We are so excited to have Coni leading the Y’s aquatics team in Morris! If you would like to join the Y team as a lifeguard or swim instructor, apply online today. To learn more about YMCA aquatics programs, click here.

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Greater Joliet Area YMCA Offering Lifeguarding and Lifeguarding Instructor Courses This Spring

You’re in good hands when you learn lifeguarding at the Y. We have been an industry leader in aquatic safety for more than 100 years, and we are excited to host multiple spring courses to help new and experienced lifeguards hone their skills in preparation for the summer. All course certifications are valid for 2 years.

AMERICAN RED CROSS LIFEGUARDING COURSE
The purpose of the American Red Cross Lifeguarding Course is to provide participants with the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize and respond to aquatic emergencies and to provide care for breathing and cardiac emergencies, injuries and sudden illnesses until EMS personnel take over.

Prerequisites:

  • Must be 16-years-old or older.
  • Must be able to complete a swim a continuous 150-yard swim, two minutes of treading water without the use of hands, followed by an additional 50-yard swim
  • Must complete a timed swim to retrieve a 10-pound object from under 7-9.5 feet of water.

PLEASE NOTE: Participants who fail to complete the swim test will receive a 50% refund. Attendance at every class is mandatory. No refunds will be given to participants who miss classes or who are unable to meet testing requirements at the end of the class successfully.

Location: C.W Avery Family YMCA (Includes Water Park Option)
Dates and Class Times: Saturday, March 29 (9 a.m.-5 p.m.), Sunday, March 30 (9 a.m-3 p.m.), Monday, March 31 (9 a.m-5 p.m.)
Cost: $250 for Facility Members/$300 for Community Members
REGISTER TODAY

Location: Galowich Family YMCA
Dates and Class Times: Tuesday, May 20-Friday, May 23 (3-7:45 p.m.), May 24 (8 a.m.-2:45 p.m.)
Cost: $250 for Facility Members/$300 for Community Members
REGISTER TODAY

AMERICAN RED CROSS LIFEGUARD INSTRUCTOR/TRAINER RECERTIFICATION COURSE
The Lifeguarding Instructor/Instructor Trainer Recertification course is designed to help existing Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructors (LGI) and Instructor Trainers (LGI/T) renew their certifications by reviewing course knowledge and skills. This course is required to maintain certification and is available exclusively through blended learning.

PLEASE NOTE: To enroll in this course, you must already hold the appropriate Lifeguarding Instructor or Instructor Trainer certification.

Location: Galowich Family YMCA
Date and Class Time: Friday, April 18 (9 a.m.-5 p.m.)
Cost: $110 for Facility Members/$115 for Community Members
REGISTER TODAY

Location: C.W. Avery Family YMCA
Date and Class Time: Friday, May 2 (9 a.m.-5 p.m.)
Cost: $110 for Facility Members/$115 for Community Members
REGISTER TODAY

If you have any questions please contact Facilities, Aquatics, and Risk Operations Director Cindy Moss at 815-267-8600, ext. 228 or by email at [email protected].

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C.W. Avery Family YMCA Set to Offer Junior Lifeguarding Academy Course

The Y’s Junior Lifeguarding Academy program allows tweens and teens (ages 11-14) to step inside the world of lifeguarding and learn lifesaving skills including first aid and CPR.*

Participants also get to experience real-life scenarios, work through team-building exercises and assist in teaching swim lessons.

Dates: March 15-May 24
Class Times: Fridays from 4:30-5:30 p.m.

PLEASE NOTE: All approved Junior Lifeguard applicants must complete an entire session. Make-up classes will not be available.

Participants must pass the following swim requirements before proceeding with the program:
-200 yard swim
-2 minute tread
-Retrieval of a 10-pound brick from the deep end floor, which includes a return swim on back within 100 seconds.

Students must wear a one piece swimsuit to every class (girls swimsuits must have a racing back or X-back), bring 2 towels, a water bottle, snacks, a notebook, and pen or pencil. A Junior Lifeguard t-shirt, whistle, and lanyard will be provided after the class portion of the course is completed and must be brought to all subsequent classes and volunteer shifts.

Following the completion of this course, Junior Lifeguards must complete a minimum of 20 volunteer hours by August 13 and will be required to attend in-service/shadowing sessions by appointment between June 5 and August 13.

*PLEASE NOTE: Participants do not earn CPR certification for completing this course.

Cost: $180 for Facility Members/$360 for Community Members

REGISTER TODAY

If you have any questions please contact Cindy Moss at 815-267-8600, ext. 228 or by email at [email protected].

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Meet C.W. Avery Family YMCA Lifeguards Nancee Furlan, Michael Auld, Mike Burcham, and Debbie Stevens

YMCA lifeguards pictured left to right: Nancee Furlan, Michael Auld, Mike Burcham, and Debbie Stevens.

Working at the YMCA is an experience that can help individuals in any stage of their life. And, whether you are a retiree looking to stay active and embark on a second career, or someone hoping to use their spare time to make a positive impact on their community, the Y is the perfect place to start.

Mike Burcham (age 67), Nancee Furlan (65), Michael Auld (61), and Debbie Stevens (56) have all become lifeguards at the C.W. Avery Family YMCA in recent years, and they are enjoying every minute of it!

“I swim here regularly and I heard from (Aquatics Director) Cindy Moss that they were hiring lifeguards,” Burcham said. “I had been a lifeguard back in the 70’s, so I ended up taking the course to retrain. The pool is so well organized and safety is the number one priority of everyone on the deck.”

Furlan, a retired teacher, also had previous experience as a lifeguard.

“I used to work at the downtown Joliet Y when I was in college. I was worried at first about whether I’d still pass the swim tests, but it worked out fine,” she said.

Auld, who first joined the Y in 2006, said that being able to give back to the community in which he’s been a long-time member is a rewarding aspect of joining the part-time staff team at the C.W. Avery Family YMCA.

“I had the time on my hands and this gives me an opportunity to do something helpful,” he said.

For Stevens, seeing her daughter go through lifeguard certification was a key factor in becoming a lifeguard herself.

“My daughter was getting ready to become a lifeguard at her college in New York and for a portion of her training a family member had to be on-site. Since I had to be there, I figured I’d take the class as well and get certified myself,” Steven said. “When I came back to Plainfield, I saw the need for lifeguards and, since I was trying to get myself back into swimming anyway, I decided to join the team.”

Though they took their own paths to start working at the Y, the journey since starting on staff has been one taken together.

“We know that there is an age gap between us and the majority of the group that works in the aquatics department,” Furlan said. “So it’s been nice to have others in the same peer group going through the same experience. I’ve felt much more comfortable and we’ve all started to bridge the gap as a group.”

Aquatics Director Cindy Moss expressed that the group provides invaluable contributions to the lifeguard staff team.

“Our staff is reflective of the greater Y community in that we bring together individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds and career experience,” Moss said. “Mike, Nancee, Michael and Debbie have all done an amazing job and we are so thankful for their dedication to keeping Y members safe when using our pools.”

In addition to collaborating with other lifeguards, building relationships with Y members themselves has been a highlight of working at the Y.

“One of the things I enjoy is being able to chat with the swimmers that come in every day and have become regular friends,” Stevens said.

“The interactions are fun,” Auld said. “It’s amazing to see kids progress from being afraid to jump in the water to being totally excited about swimming.”

Burcham said that he has been asked by multiple members about working at the Y. 

“A few of them are only a year or two away from retirement and are looking for something new. I tell them how great it is to work here and that I really look forward to every day,” he said. “When you watch the families enjoy time together and you’re one of the ones helping keep them safe, you walk away feeling good about your day at work.”

On behalf of the Y, we would like to thank Mike, Nancee, Michael, and Debbie for their continued service. If you would like to join the Y’s aquatics team, apply online today.

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