Dr. P. Phillips YMCA

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Engage a child and you touch a life, touch a group of children and you change the world.

People may think of the  Dr. P. Phillips YMCA as only a workout destination. However, a closer look reveals layers of programs that touch lives in meaningful ways. From a young child timidly stepping onto a soccer field for the first time and soon forgetting his fears as he chases the ball down the field to a teen who finds friends, acceptance and a blossoming sense of self-esteem through an after-school program.

Dr. P. Phillips YMCA creates a variety of programs designed to promote healthy lifestyles, instill a sense of social responsibility, and provide a safe, positive atmosphere for all its members regardless of age, gender or socio-economic situation.

A Sense of Belonging

Youth programs are at the heart of the Y’s mission. Seasonal youth sports, such as soccer, baseball, T-ball, basketball, cheerleading and flag football give children the opportunity to stay active year-round. In addition to having fun and promoting exercise, children learn sportsmanship, as well as core values like honesty, care, respect and responsibility. And every child gets the opportunity to participate regardless of skill level.

Sometimes, something as simple as playing with other children in a Y program or participating in an adult activity can have a profound impact.

Because of personal reasons, a Southwest Orlando single mother and son emigrated from Europe to the United States. As with most people who find themselves in a different environment, they faced isolation. Through the Y’s programs, they quickly forged relationships in a healthy and safe environment.

“We have made wonderful friends and have had the chance to take care of our physical and mental wellness in a strong, respectful community that provides daily emotional support,” the mother said. “The Y brings benefits with its initiatives involving young people and families through events, summer camps and providing a joyful environment.”

The Importance of Inclusion

As summer approaches, parents look for a safe place where their children will not only be engaged and have fun, but learn important life skills and core values that will serve them well through adulthood. The Y has myriad camps to pique any child’s interest. And, parents can have the peace of mind that all staff members are screened, trained and first-aid certified.

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Javier Gomez and his son, Martin, work on creative activities together at the Dr. P. Phillips YMCA.

 

Camps are also a great way for families to connect, since each week the Y sponsors Family Fun Friday, where children and adults get together to play and engage.

The Y’s summer camps are designed to be fun and interactive. There are a number of weeklong camps to choose from. Sports camps, which are for youth ages 5-11, teach skills through teamwork and healthy competition. Campers can choose soccer, basketball, flag football, futsal (indoor soccer) and even wacky sports. Children ages 5-12 can participate in specialty camps, such as chef, young artist, science and wildlife. These campers also have the opportunity to exercise and play games, all while making new friends and memories.

Javier Gomez was hesitant to enroll his autistic son, Martin, in the Y’s summer camp program, though he wanted his child to be able to participate with other children. But, the staff welcomed Martin with open arms. In the beginning, he had a difficult time adjusting and would become upset and agitated. However, through the gentle care and attention of camp staff, Martin began to embrace his camp experience and had fewer outbursts. Martin continues to flourish in an atmosphere where he is valued and accepted.

Achieving Peace of Mind

The Dr. P. Phillips YMCA’s impact reaches outside its building and four walls. Its before- and after-school programs extend far beyond child care. The programs teach children values and wellness, while reducing stress on busy families. One full-time working mother was concerned for the well-being of her children while she was at work. After enrolling them in a Y after-school program, she soon felt a sense of peace.040716ymcapromo01 As part of one of Dr. P. Phillips YMCA’s many engaging programs, children learn to prepare a fruit-filled dish with chef Gary Appelsies (second from right), director of healthy eating.

“The instructors took the time to get to know my children and make them feel important, safe and secure. These are middle school students who, at times, feel awkward and are not sure where they fit in. Program staff members care for each one, making them feel included and worthy. They teach them to have pride in themselves and show them how to make the right choices in life so they may have a bright future,” she said.

Access to All

The Y is committed to accessibility to all people regardless of economic situations. Unfortunately, hard times can come when people least expect it. This situation happened to a parent who found herself faced with some hard choices because of financial difficulties. With two active boys who loved to play sports, canceling her Y membership was one of the most heartbreaking choices she had to make.

“It is a shame that committing to your health and providing team sports for your children had to be a luxury item,” she said. She continued to work hard to help with her family’s finances, but a Y membership was still out of their reach. Thanks to the YMCA Scholarship Fund, her family was able to regain its membership.

Undoubtedly, the Dr. P. Phillips YMCA is a beautiful, state-of-the-art facility that continually changes to meet the needs of the community. People of all ages and situations come to the Y for many reasons — youth sports, teen programs, swimming lessons, summer camps, fitness and lifestyle coaching.

How many places can an entire family be embraced and have something to do either individually or together?  The Dr. P. Phillips YMCA strengthens our community, one family at a time.

The Dr. P. Phillips YMCA is located at 7000 Dr. Phillips Blvd. in Orlando. For more information, call 407-351-9417. 💓