Grand Traverse YMCA

Jay Buckmaster,  President, and CEO of GTBay YMCA (& President of TC Sunrise Club):

Jay has a long history of YMCA service; formerly he organized programs in Wichita, KS, and Tampa, FL.  Under his direction, the new Traverse City YMCA celebrates its 3^rd birthday 0n September 22, 2017.  Jay Buckmaster outlined the three Major Focuses of the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA and the outstanding progress achieved in these past 3 short years.

In youth development, the YMCA addressed the child care crisis by greatly expanding their Child Development Center to serve 78 families and filling this capacity within 6 months.  The growing need in the Traverse Bay area continues to expand and plans are in process to serve 100 or more families in crisis. Presently there are 140 on the waiting list.

Low-income young families require day-care and the expense is a major burden for working parents.  It was pointed out that child-care average cost approaches $1,000 per month.

YMCA child care is unique and special.  Children under their care receive not only typical supervision, housing, food and essential care, but also exercise, water safety, play school training; all in a very safe environment.  During Q&A, Randy Camps complimented Jay Buckmaster since the YMCA service of child care is well above PAR compared to what the average child care facility offers.

 

The YMCA continues to advocate for active older adults and provides dedicated space and programming for improving the health, strength and endurance of active seniors.  The goal is to combat the aging process by evidence-based group fitness classes.  The exercise equipment and trainers are qualified to assist everyone to excel in essential training and activity.  All Y members young and older are fortunate to have the YMCA services and facilities available at a reasonable cost.  For low-income or needy people, the TBay YMCA does have programs and cost-sharing initiatives available for the various levels income and need.

 

The YMCA is the leader in swim lessons for our region.  In particular, the YMCA is the only provider of drowning prevention program called “Safety Around Water”.  This 5-week program is offered for free to 3rd-grade students.  This is completely funded by donations and is critically important in keeping our youth safe around the many lakes, boating and water sports.

The YMCA is a large contributor to our local economy – each year the YMCA payroll amounts to over $ 3 million.  Also, the YMCA invests another $690,000 back into local businesses.  The Grand Traverse Bay YMCA is grateful and eager to partner with other forward-thinking organizations to move toward solutions to meet the community’s most pressing needs.

Anyone interested in joining the “Y” can find essential membership information, programs and activities.  The Y is a non-profit organization is dependent on volunteers and public donations in order to meet our community’s expanding social needs.