August News: Life with a Y includes You
Life with a Y includes You
For more than 135 years, the YMCA of Western North Carolina has lifted up the people of our region, steadily and without fanfare. Some of our most important work is not immediately visible. It happens quietly – when a family receives food without losing dignity. When a senior is expected by name. When a child finds courage in the water. When recovery has a room full of witnesses. This is the quiet power of the Y. Everyday, ordinary work that has extraordinary impact across our communities. We invite you to consider the Y from a fresh perspective by watching this short film. Thank you for being part of life at a Y!
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
The best part of the school day
The Y is here to help your family start the new school year strong! Our safe, affordable afterschool programs give kids a place to learn, play, and make friends when the school day ends. Financial assistance is available for students in Asheville City, Buncombe County, and McDowell County public schools. Sign up today.
The game is growing
This fall, the Y is launching the area's first High School Girls NFL Flag Football program. These leagues offer an empowering way for girls ages 14–17 to stay active, compete, and connect with a strong community of athletes. With expanding opportunities for college scholarships, elite competition, and a place in the 2028 Olympic Games, now is the perfect time to take the field.
Looking for more leagues? We also offer coed NFL Flag Football leagues for ages 5–13. Find all our options here.
Fall back into sports
There are more ways for kids to get in the game this fall. YMCA soccer and volleyball players will build skills, make friends, and learn teamwork in a fun, supportive environment. Offerings vary by location and date. Learn more and sign up here.
Be a safe space for youth
Learn how to listen and support youth in our community at the Youth Mental Health First Aid training on Aug. 19 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. in McDowell County. This free training teaches adults how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health challenges among children and adolescents ages 12-18. If you’re interested, please contact Chaka-Khan Gordon at [email protected].
Future leaders start here
This fall, teens can learn how to use their voices and make a difference in the Y's Youth and Government program. Participants will take on real-world topics, challenge ideas, and grow as leaders alongside other motivated peers. The program starts in September at select locations. Stay tuned for more details. Learn more and fill out an interest survey here.
Need a break? We've got you.
The Y has you covered when you've got things to do. Parents Night Out is the perfect opportunity to enjoy some time off while your child has fun with us. We offer programs at multiple locations on a variety of dates. You don't have to be a member to register, although members get the best rate. Available for ages 1-12. Find a session that works for you here.
Y members can use Kids Club when they need time to run errands or get some work done. This benefit gives you the opportunity to leave the facility while your child enjoys fun activities and makes new friends. Programs are offered at multiple YMCA locations with a variety of dates and times. Available for ages 1-12. Click here to find a time that works for you.
Safe swimmers, safe kids
The Y believes everyone deserves to enjoy the water with confidence. Our swim lessons are designed to teach this lifelong skill to swimmers of all ages in a safe and supportive environment. New sessions start this fall. Click here to learn more and find the option that works best for you.
Calling all campers
Mark your calendars! Registration for next summer at YMCA Camp Watia opens on Sept. 1. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable summer filled with fun, adventure, and new friends. Click here to learn more.
HEALTHY LIVING
Clean pools, happy swimmers
Summer is the busiest season for our pools. To keep them in peak condition, we’ll be deep cleaning several facilities over the next few weeks. Be sure to check our social media, website, and mobile app for updates.
Here’s the closure schedule:
- Asheville Y South Pool: Aug. 16-22
- Asheville Y North Pool: Aug. 23-30
- Black Mountain Y: Aug. 24-30
- Corpening Memorial Y: Aug. 16-23
- Hendersonville Family Y: Aug. 21-23
- Reuter Family Y: Aug. 26-30 (including hot tub, steam room, and sauna)
Get guidance on your goals
Did you know members get complimentary access to expert wellness advice? With a Coaching Connection session, you'll get guidance on how to achieve your fitness goals at the Y. Learn more and reserve an appointment here.
Get fit together
Fitness is more fun together! Group exercise is for people of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. Join a class to move, groove, and sweat your way to your health and wellness goals. Change up your routine and find a new class here.
Live life to the fullest
Join us on Sept. 22 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Reuter Family Y to celebrate Healthy Aging Day! This free community event is dedicated to celebrating healthy aging and supporting older adults. This event will feature class demos, informative lectures, free health screenings, vendor booths, giveaways, and more. Learn more here.
Recover and rebuild together
Cancer survivors can reclaim their health and reach goals together with LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA. This free 12-week program helps participants rebuild strength, increase endurance, and connect with others in a supportive community. Upcoming sessions begin on Sept. 1 at the Woodfin Y and on Sept. 14 at the Black Mountain Y. To sign up, click here.
Discover something new
There’s something for everyone at the Y! Each month, we offer a variety of clubs, workshops, support groups, and more at our centers. Explore all our upcoming events here.
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Holiday hours
All YMCA centers will close at 1 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 7 in observance of Labor Day.
Feeding our neighbors
Each week, the Y is in the community distributing healthy produce, simple recipes, and valuable nutrition information that's easy to understand. This service is free and open to the public; no questions asked. Find our mobile food market schedules here.
Do you have extra egg cartons? We can use them! We accept clean, closable egg cartons in 6, 12, or 18 count. You can drop them off at any YMCA location.
Join the team
Help us keep kids safe, healthy, and on track for success this school year! We’re hiring afterschool counselors at multiple locations. You’ll take care of kids while learning new skills and working as part of a team. Apply here.
Interested in other ways to work with us? We’re hiring for a variety of roles, including lifeguards, instructors, and more! View all job openings here.
What do you know about the Y?
As a member of the YMCA of Western North Carolina, you experience the Y from the inside. But we still want to understand what comes to mind when you think about the organization and its role in our region.
Please take this quick survey to share your thoughts and help the Y better serve our community.
Your wishes, your way
August is Make a Will Month, making it the perfect time to consider including the YMCA in your estate plan. Ensuring the future of programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body is a wonderful legacy. Donors who give at a certain level, either with a financial contribution during their lifetime or a planned gift, will be welcomed into our Heritage Club. To learn more about joining this esteemed group, please contact us.