YMCA OF THE EAST VALLEY | Annual Report 2020
LETTER FROM
DARWIN
Lasting personal and social changes come about when we all work together. Every day we work side-by-side with our neighbors to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to thrive. Over the years, our programs continue to make a significant difference in our community, from preventing accidental drownings to providing emotional and physical support in our cancer survivor program and providing a safe and enriching place to be after school for over 5,000 youth every day. Since opening our doors in 1887, we have faced many challenging times, but perhaps no greater challenge than what we met earlier this year. The YMCA of the East Valley has persevered because of great organizational leadership and great community support each time we have faced a crisis. In March, when our doors closed, our transformational work did not stop. Just like challenges in the past, we pivoted programming to help our community with resources. When essential workers needed childcare, we provided care. After the homeless were left without community showers, we opened our doors to them. When members were left with nowhere to exercise, we started virtual exercise classes. And when many seniors in our community were left isolated, we made wellness calls to check in on them. We are proud to share with you some of that work from this last year. Without the STRENGTH IN OUR COMMUNITY, our Y would not be the strong pillar for a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Thank you for being part of our cause and story.
Darwin Barnett
CEO | YMCA of the East Valley
12,156
Total number of YMCA members receiving Financial Assistance
SAW Program at the YMCA of the East Valley YMCA of the East Valley has developed a unique partnership with Redlands Unified School District to have every 2nd grader go through our Safety Around Water program. Funded by the generous support of our donors, our Safety Around Water program has made learning life-saving water skills accessible for all second graders in our community.
YMCA CIRCUS The Redlands Family YMCA has been cultivating community through circus arts and a shared passion in creating jaw-dropping, aweinspiring, and grin-inducing circus routines - because it’s not a circus unless there are clowns. The oldest community circus in the world, The Great Y Circus has participants from ages 3 to 67. ®
578
Showers provided during stay-home orders “Providing the minimum of shower and hygiene needs for our local homeless residents during the early ‘darkest days’ of the pandemic was crucial to help avert potential Hep A episodes as well as minimize movement and possible coronavirus disease spread throughout the community.”
Dr. Craig Turley President | Redlands Charitable Resources Coalition
3
CYNTHIA
ANGULO When California issued the school closures and stay-at-home orders in March, many families and essential workers were left searching for a safe place for their children. As a single parent working in the healthcare field, Cynthia Angulo needed care for her two daughters, Arionna (8) and Jade (6), so she turned to the Y. “There are a lot of us single-parents out there, we have to work, but we have our kids, and we don’t have any time to take off work to take care of our kids,” shared Cynthia. During the closure, the Y was able to support the families of essential workers. “Providing child care for families during COVID-19 is a tangible outpouring of the Y’s mission. Our purpose has always been to be a place of support to the community,” says Breann Lindsey, Camp Director at the Redlands Family YMCA.
throwing a frisbee all the fun things kids are supposed to be doing,” Cynthia shared. Arionna and Jade enjoy the crafts and are always learning new things at Day Camp. “They are learning to make lanyards, or trying to,” laughs Cynthia. She remembers making lanyards when she attended the summer camp through her local YMCA as a child and teen.
With the start of the new school Arionna and Jade were already a year, parents struggled to find a part of the Y’s afterschool program solution for workplace demands when they started day camp. It was and kids learning from home. The Y comforting for them to see the pivoted its day camp programming familiar faces of their afterschool Y to offer KEY (Knowledge, Enrichment, teachers with so much uncertainty. & Youth Development) designed The Redlands Y Day Camp staff to support working parents while helped Arionna and Jade navigate schools are providing distance distance learning over the spring to learning. This program allows kids keep the girls on track. “It was very to be connected to their classroom, helpful for them offers homework to see adults assistance, and that they There are a lot of us singlephysical activity knew. The girls parents out there, we have for K-6th grade. love them,” to work, but we have our As a parent, said Cynthia. kids, and we don’t have any Cynthia strives to During this time to take off work to give her daughters unprecedented take care of our kids. the best time, Cynthia opportunities. is happy that “Being able to her daughters are experiencing give them the right educational new and fun things at the Y. “It’s setting that they need and also to the interaction, and they can go give them a chance to grow and outside and play. They are learning learn things themselves.” At the Y, basketball or soccer, tossing a ball
Arionna and Jade can start to explore their interest. Cynthia is excited for her daughters to discover what they are passionate about, “Do you like bugs, or do you like these sports, or would you like to stay inside and draw? There they get a chance to try all that.” At the Y, we believe that by offering quality affordable programs like day camp, we help support all in our community. “Bridging the gaps in our community means no one should be choosing between their child’s education and development or providing for their family,” says Breann. As we support workers in essential fields caring for our most vulnerable populations during this pandemic, it is through the generosity of donors like you that we can offer financial assistance to families in need throughout our community. “Thank you for supporting families like mine; you are helping pay for the full fee that we couldn’t afford on our own” shared Cynthia. “You are paying it forward to those children who can now get a better education and experiences.” 1. Public Policy Institute of California. 2002. California’s Young Children. Image. https://www.ppic.org/content/pubs/jtf/ JTF_YoungChildrenJTF.pdf.
Nearly 1 in 4 children in California lives with a single parent.1 5
CONNIE
ARMENDARIZ While visiting family, Connie Armendariz watched her ten-yearold granddaughter during her swim lessons at the YMCA. “I was so amazed at watching how great of a swimmer she became,” shared Connie. “I remember telling my daughter that my biggest regret was that I never pushed myself to go and learn. I was just too scared.” When she was in her youth, Connie was pushed into a pool by other kids. “I didn’t know the first thing about swimming or even floating. I was with my cousin, I remember, and she was yelling out to the lifeguards that I didn’t know how to swim, so they pulled me out. After that, I was terrified of the water.” Drowning is the fifth leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States and the leading cause of accidental death in children under five years of age.1 Over one third
of Americans reported that they have limited swimming ability with an even higher rate in underserved populations.2 With these stark facts, the Y believes teaching water safety is not a luxury; it is a necessity.
was her next big step. “I told them from the very beginning that ‘I don’t know the first thing about floating, so just be patient with me,’ and they were, they were very helpful.”
“It took years for me to push myself to go to the Y because I didn’t know where else to go. My granddaughter was my biggest motivator,” shared Connie, “She told me, ‘You can do it. I know you can do it!’ and that’s how I got started.”
Teaching adults to swim is about understanding their fears, says Roshelle Ogden, Aquatics Director for the YMCA of the East Valley. Instructors help build their students’ confidence by teaching them how to control their bodies to master the water.
The San Bernardino YMCA is where Connie headed, she was familiar with the Y, and it was close to home. “I felt very comfortable going there,” shared Connie. Getting in the pool with an instructor for swim lessons
As students progress, many seem almost to revert back to childhood, no longer fearful of the water they feel they can finally enjoy that pool party, beach trip, or family vacation they missed having fun at. “They
At the end of the lesson, they made me feel good about myself.
actually get to be a kid again, and it is really fun to see,” said Roshelle. Connie loved her time in the pool with her swim instructors. “They’d encourage me; they would lead me and guide me, and everything I did, they made it easier for me. At the end of the lesson, they made me feel good about myself.” “They took the fear away from me. I learned how to float and how to turn over, and I was shocked. I was amazed I could do that.” Connie was even able to swim across the pool with help. “They gave me confidence.” “It was very relaxing, and it helped me with my stress,” said Connie. “When I would come home, I was so relaxed. I felt better after. I just felt good about myself.” As a senior with a SilverSneakers ® membership and living with a fixed income, the cost of lessons became a hardship for Connie. “I’m on a budget, and it was getting hard for me. I was going every week, and it was hard for me. I felt I had to stop because I couldn’t afford it.” Connie shared her struggles with the San Bernardino Y staff; they informed her of our Financial Assistance Program. Connie applied and was able to receive help with paying for her classes. “If it weren’t for the assistance, I would have had to stop.”
1 in 4 nonfatal adult drownings happen in a swimming pool.3 6
With the help of your donations, we can bridge the gap in swim lessons and water safety education across the East Valley—especially in underserved communities. At the Y, we know that to create a community
If it wasn’t for the Y, where else would you go to learn how to swim? of strong swimmers, we need to eliminate financial and social barriers that limit many from learning these live-saving skills. “If it wasn’t for the Y, where else would you go to learn how to swim? I don’t know where I would have gone.” Connie said, “They made me feel like it is never too late.” 1. “Drowning — United States, 2005– 2009”. 2011. Cdc.Gov. https://www. cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/ mm6119a4.htm?s_cid=mm6119a4_w#fig. 2. Division of Unintentional Injury Prevention. 1995. Self-Reported Swimming Ability In US Adults, 1994. Image. “Drowning — United States, 2005–2009”. 2020. Cdc.Gov. https:// www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/ mm6119a4.htm?s_cid=mm6119a4_w#fig. 3. “Drowning — United States, 2005– 2009”. 2011. Cdc.Gov.
7
OUR REACH
IN NUMBERS
LEGAL AID
594 Families and individuals assisted with affordable legal aid.
The Y offers a wide variety of fitness programs for everyone. Our organization provides a welcoming community that will be supportive along a member’s health journey. You’ll find people in the facility looking to live a little bit healthier at every age and every level of activity. In addition to our local fitness facilities, we provide educational programs to promote healthier decisions and offer a variety of classes that support physical, intellectual, and spiritual strength.
YMCA MEMBERSHIPS
34,764 YMCA Almost thirty-five thousand members working together for a healthier tomorrow.
PRESCHOOL UNIVERSITY
143
Children building social and emotional skills in an enriched environment.
8
DAY CAMP
1,276 Kids experiencing fun and adventure while developing independence and important social skills.
CARE & ACADEMIC SUPPORT
4,688 CAPS
545
AFTER SCHOOL CARE
YMCA after school care provides opportunities for children to learn, grow, and thrive as they make their way from K-5th grade.
FINANCIAL AID SCHOLARSHIPS
449 617 AQUATICS
YOUTH SPORTS Helping our community build a foundation for a healthy lifestyle.
KIDS FED
664 36,894 MEALS AT YMCA
MEALS AT PSU
Nutritious and delicious meals provided to children.
9
CAMBRIA
FROMM When Cambria (5) started at the YMCA Preschool University, she didn’t speak to anyone. At first, everyone assumed she was just shy as she quietly watched the other children, never engaging or playing even when invited. One of the clues that Cambria’s silence was more than shyness was that she was reluctant to communicate even nonverbally. Cambria’s mother, Diana Fromm, was soon on her way to finding help through a diagnosis, Cambria had Selective Mutism. A complex anxiety disorder that is most commonly diagnosed in children between 3 to 8 years old; Selective Mutism is characterized by a child’s inability to speak in one or more social settings, such as school despite being able to talk comfortably when at home. During social settings, children with Selective Mutism will experience not reluctance but an inability to
speak and may have difficulty even communicating in a nonverbal manner.1 When Carolyn Leyva, lead teacher in the tiger classroom at Preschool University, learned of Cambria’s diagnosis, she knew she had to help. “It started with me and Cami having a one on one sit down. The first few days were hard for Cami.” Mrs. Carolyn removed the pressure to speak from Cambria, and instead offered incentives and positive reinforcement. “I told Cami that she didn’t have to sit and talk with me if she didn’t want to but that everyone would be so proud of her if she did and that she would be so happy and proud of herself.” Taking time to build her confidence, Mrs. Carolyn worked with Cambria personally. Preschool and early childhood education play an essential role in children’s health, social-emotional, and cognitive outcomes. One way
1 in 4 working families have access 10
is by providing time for early interventions. Studies show that the earlier the intervention among children and adolescents, the better the outcome. Critical development, such as behavioral and emotional skills, academic cognition, and health, happen in these early years and can lay the foundation for childhood and beyond.2 “Mrs. Carolyn has been really great with Cambria, just getting her to open up and talk,” Diana shared. At their second one on one chat, Cambria started to communicate with Mrs. Carolyn with nonverbal cues like shaking her head, which she had never done before. “So we began our daily chats, we had to be sitting far enough away from all of the other kids and teachers so they wouldn’t be able to hear her speak,” shared Mrs. Carolyn. They would talk about their favorite colors, what movies they liked, favorite songs to sing, and more. “Every day, I took the time to show Cami that she is important, and her voice matters.”
quality preschool opportunities, many families face educational gaps opening before children even reach kindergarten. Early childhood education not only offers care at a critical time to cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development in children, it also creates time for early interventions. From spotting learning disorders and cognitive delays to behavioral and health issues, early interventions include receiving support, therapies, and other services that can have a profound impact on a child’s development. Working with a therapist and Mrs. Carolyn, Cambria continued to make progress; she started to participate in music and movement, answer questions in front of the class, and even began to connect and form relationships with her peers. “Watching Cambria blossom was very rewarding. I saw a huge change in her,” shared Mrs. Carolyn. “She showed us her sweet and silly personality, and she even made a few ‘best friends’ along the way.”
She showed us her sweet and silly personality.
With limited access to affordable
Quality early childhood education has been proven to have longlasting impacts. Children who attend a quality preschool program
equitable start. Together, we can bridge the gaps in early childhood education by providing financial assistance and opening up access to quality care to all in our community. 1. “What Is Selective Mutism”. 2020. S elective Mutism Anxiety Research & Treatment Center | Smart Center. https://selectivemutismcenter.org/ whatisselectivemutism/. 2. “What Works in Early Childhood Intervention Programs.” Early Childhood Interventions: Proven Results, Future Promise, by Lynn A. Karoly et al., 1st ed., RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA; Arlington, VA; Pittsburgh, PA, 2005, pp. 55–86. JSTOR, www.jstor.org/ stable/10.7249/mg341pnc.11. Accessed 20 Aug. 2020. 3. Ibid.
have greater success in school academically, emotionally, and socially throughout elementary school. 3 Without assistance, Diana said the cost of preschool would have been tough to afford on her own. After her time at Preschool University, Cambria is now ready to head to kindergarten this fall. “It has definitely prepared her for the structure, being around routines, and socializing with other kids.”
4. “Availability Of Child Care For Working Families - Kidsdata.org”. 2020. Kidsdata.org . https://www.kidsdata. org/topic/99/child-care-availability/ table#jump=research-links&fmt=262&loc= 2,366&tf=95&ch=1247,1248&sortColumn Id= 0&sortType= asc.
At the Y, we believe in nurturing children and families through affordable, quality childcare. By removing the financial barriers of childcare, we ensure that all children in our community have an
to a licensed child care facility.4 11
12
MARIA & ARLENE
DELGADO Maria Delgado was searching for an affordable outlet for her daughter Arlene (11). It was a difficult time of transition for the mother and daughter in the middle of moving homes. As the parent of an only child, Maria wanted not only to find a sport for Arlene to be active but also a place for her daughter to make friends, so they came to the Highland YMCA. Reports show that one in four Americans is physically inactive.1 At the Y, we know the impact of physical activity is far-reaching. Regular physical activity can produce long-term health benefits by preventing chronic disease, relieving stress, decreasing depression, and increasing your self-esteem. Unsure of where to start, Maria had many questions. “Marvin helped me find the right thing for my daughter; he gave me a lot of ideas and
examples and really helped me with all my questions,” said Maria. “I didn’t think I would be able to afford it.” When Maria learned that the Y Financial Assistance program was able to help with the cost, she signed Arlene up for gymnastics. “The Y really helps anyone that wants to join no matter their age or income,” said Maria. “I’m never going to forget this; they really supported my daughter and me.”
motivating her, saying I know you can do this.”
Maria focus on their fitness sets an excellent example for Arlene. They are both creating the foundation for an active lifestyle that prioritizes their health and wellbeing.”
“As we started coming, I noticed my daughter coming out of her box. Every single day she started opening up,” shared Maria. “When Through your donations to the she got to play in a game, she was Y, we have removed the financial so happy; it really motivated her.” barriers to fitness opportunities. By Seeing the changes offering programs to Arlene’s for all ages and confidence and we When she got to play abilities, self-esteem, ensure that all in a game, she was Maria is are welcomed and delighted. “It encouraged to so happy; it really boosted my pursue a healthier motivated her. confidence as lifestyle. With well, supporting your support, my daughter at the game, talking to every day the parents, and just being there and Y works to create a healthier and being active.” stronger community for all.
The moment they stepped into the Y for Arlene’s first class, Maria knew she had made the right decision. “I walked through the doors, and my friends were already there,” said Maria, “it was great.”
Maria loves coming to the Y and participating in the free group exercise classes. She enjoys the community it provides and says that it has boosted her self-esteem. “Every day I would go to the Y, the staff was supportive, you felt connected. Every time you came, it was like you were going home, everyone is happy you are there.”
Searching for the right fit, soon Arlene was signed up for swim lessons, day camp, and youth basketball at the Highland Y. “It was a big step for her to get out there and try,” shared Maria. “I was
“It has been great to see Arlene grow and make friends in all the activities she has participated in,” shared Marvin Hernandez, the Highland Family YMCA Sports and Membership Director. “Seeing
1. Physical Activity Council. 2020. https://eb6d91a4-d249-47b8-a5cb933f7971db54.filesusr.com/ugd/286de6_ c28995b76cf94de2a22ac7a0a4d5264d. pdf. 2. Babey, Susan, Joelle Wolstein, and Allison Diamant. 2018. Few California Children And Adolescents Meet Physical Activity Guidelines. Image. http://healthpolicy. ucla.edu/publications/Documents/ PDF/2018/physicalactivity-briefsept2018.pdf.
Nearly 1 in 4 children in the US are physically inactive.2 13
THE YMCA AIDING ESSENTIAL WORKERS
ESSENTIAL NUMBERS
115
AnaRosa, a mother of two, can continue to work as a nurse at Kaiser, thanks to your support. Every day, AnaRosa drops off Elias (9) and Emma (6) at our Redlands facility as she heads into work. AnaRosa is thankful for the support that her family has received. When she drops off her children at the Y, she is confident that her kids are safe and being well taken care of. Having that peace of mind, she can continue to serve our community and provide care for others.
Offering families of essential workers support and a consistent space for children in our community during COVID-19 truly embodies the Y’s mission.
850
227 Number of senior check-in calls made
We called hundreds of our senior members to offer support and resources. Most of all, we’ve had a great time chatting with them, hearing their stories and staying connected.
14 14
Children of essential workers were provided care
Virtual Fitness Classes offered to the community We know regular exercise is one component of a healthy lifestyle that can help reduce stress and prevent illness. That is why we started offering live virtual group exercise classes to our members.
2020 ANNUAL
CAMPAIGN
9,102
$
Other
14,276
$
Camp Edwards
19,077
$
Every year we host an Annual Campaign to raise not just funds but to raise awareness, health, hope, kindness, and potential. Our campaign brings our community and volunteers together around a shared mission. Every dollar raised during our campaign allows us to offer critical funds that enable every child, family, and individual the ability to participate in our Y programs by eliminating financial barriers. Thank you for helping us strengthen our community.
Circus
20,966
$
Child Care
21,681
$
Youth Sports
22,127
$
Aquatics
71,872
$
Day Camp
479,299
$
Financial Assistance awarded 2019–2020
300,198
$
Membership
15
YMCA OF THE EAST VALLEY Redlands Family YMCA Highland Family YMCA San Bernardino Family YMCA Preschool University Camp Edwards
OUR MISSION The YMCA of the East Valley is an association of people of all ages, ethnic groups, and religious affiliations founded on Christian principles and dedicated to building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities through programs that develop spirit, mind, and body.
ymcaeastvalley.org