Exciting Updates Ahead for the Y Experience!
The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is on a major transformation journey, and we’d like to give you a sneak peek! After all, our transformation is in pursuit of our mission and vision to create stronger communities — and YOU are a critical part of the why behind the Y.
Improving Your Experience
We’re making significant strides in your Y experience, which we’re affectionately calling YX (like CX for “customer experience,” but for the Y!).
From physical upgrades at our Community Hubs and Camps to a digital transformation that brings new features and interactions, we’re moving into 2025 with a smoother, more enjoyable experience.
What you can anticipate in 2025:
- Significant improvements in our technology and digital experience to support ease of booking, payment, and account management, as well as easier program registration (e.g. new mobile app, interactive technology, website improvements, new point-of-sale card readers)
- Continued upgrades to the physical experience (e.g. cabins, locker rooms, lobby areas, classrooms, fitness studios and centers, gymnasiums)
- Upgraded fitness center layouts and equipment (e.g. maximized space without overcrowding, increased equipment selection, Peloton)
- Introduction of Holistic Hospitality, our philosophy for creating meaningful experiences that are personalized and more engaging
Introducing New & Expanded Offerings
We’re constantly expanding our programs and services to better serve you.
In the last year, we launched two new workforce development programs (Illinois Works and Water Works), introduced Peloton as a FREE benefit for every Y fitness member, and expanded our early learning, youth programming, and teen engagement offerings. And this is just the start!
What you can anticipate in 2025:
- New and expanded sports and aquatics programming for all ages (e.g. basketball, gymnastics, hockey, running, pickleball, soccer, water polo)
- Expanded youth programs (e.g. before and after school care, summer camp, enrichment programing, and more)
- New health and wellbeing offerings (e.g. community building, movement opportunities, chronic disease management, prevention programs, evaluations, and more)
- Introduction of Peloton Zones at select Community Hubs, along with more access to Peloton equipment and technology
- Growth of early learning programs (e.g. infant care, preschool, toddlers, and twos)
- Expanded workforce development programs (e.g. Illinois Works, Water Works, and more)
- Simplified access to all Y services and offerings
Expanding Our Reach
Like the famed architect and urban designer Daniel Burnham said, “make no little plans” — and believe us when we say we have a lot of big plans ahead! Because we want every person, of every age and every background, to have a Y experience!
What you can anticipate in 2025:
- Grand opening of a new YMCA — the West Garfield Park YMCA — at the Sankofa Wellness Village
- Expansion and introduction of program offerings in communities where a Y may not currently exist
- New partnerships across industries and geographies
- New cause marketing initiatives that support local economies and businesses and the Y
Supporting Change
We recognize that change can sometimes be accompanied by challenges, and we appreciate your support and shared enthusiasm during our period of transformation. Our goal is to provide you with an enhanced experience, along with services and offerings that better meet your needs today, tomorrow, and well into the future. We are committed to listening to your ideas and working together on opportunities to strengthen our work and communities.
We deeply appreciate the trust you place in the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago and your commitment to fostering a stronger, healthier community. Your investment not only equips the Y to provide essential programs and services but also empowers individuals, families, and communities to thrive. Together, we are making a major impact, creating opportunities for growth, and building a brighter future for everyone. Thank you for being an integral part of our mission and for your dedication to our cause.