To our YMCA Members and Friends
,
Jewett Child Development Center Re-Opens:
The Yakima Family YMCA re-opened its Jewett Child Development Center on June 9
th
to provide quality early learning and child care options to local families. The Jewett Center is operating at limited capacity to comply with state protocols initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Y recognized the need for child care with more parents returning to work. Operating capacity will be expanded as Yakima progresses through the re-opening phases directed by the Governor and local health officials. If you have questions, please contact Julie Bremerman at:
jbremerman@yakimaymca.org
.
Camp Dudley Summer Camp Cancelled, but Renting Cabins:
The Y made the difficult decision to cancel the summer camping season at Camp Dudley. National operating protocols for camps made it nearly impossible to balance safety procedures, capacity limitations, staffing levels and a quality camping experience. Uncertainty as to re-opening of facilities under the current phased state system also made it difficult to move forward with camp. We look forward to restoring our outstanding Camp Dudley programming in the summer of 2021. We remain hopeful our fall schedule can proceed as planned.
With the Stay at Home restrictions now lifted, families can enjoy time at camp under regulated conditions. Limited cabin rentals are available for family camping outings. For information, you may contact our Camp Dudley Director, Kyle McPherson at:
kmcpherson@yakimaymca.org
.
Summer Day Camp Cancelled:
The YMCA also determined it must cancel our Summer Day Camp Program. This program runs out of our downtown facility. With no certainty as to dates for re-opening the building, we could not make a commitment to families and staff. In addition, state regulations imposed for re-opening Summer Day Camps reduced capacity, restricted activities and created financial shortfalls.
Our YMCA staff and volunteers made these decisions after much deliberation. The ability to offer quality programming under pandemic protocols while keeping participants and staff healthy was the primary concern. Evaluating community needs, availability of facilities, the YMCA mission and good stewardship of our limited funds also played a role. We apologize for the inconvenience and disruption this may create for some local families. Unfortunately, with Camp Dudley and Summer Day Camp, these were the best choices we could make under the current circumstances.
When Can the YMCA Re-Open?:
We can't wait to welcome you back! The YMCA is able to open our facilities in Phase 3 and youth programs in Phase 4 of the Governor's plan. We will continue to keep you updated and will soon provide you information on our re-opening that will include updated policies and practices.
June and July Membership Dues:
As a Y Member, we continue to value your support. Due to our continued closure we will be automatically skipping the monthly June and July bank drafts. And, if you are a member who pays annually, two additional months will be added to your current expiration. If you have questions, please contact our Membership Director, Drew Edgerly at
dedgerly@yakimaymca.org
.
Thank you for your understanding. We look forward to returning to full operations in the months ahead.
Sincerely,
Bob Romero
If you would like to continue to support the YMCA. We invite you to visit our website to make a donation.
