
For a young immigrant, the Y was more than a place to
play basketball. It was a safe haven from life on the streets.

It began as a woman’s search for a place to build endurance
during her cancer treatments. Today, her family has come to
rely on the Y as a source of unity, strength and belonging.

Sometimes teens need a little extra guidance when they are
Government gave her just that, with some added advantages.
We believe the values and skills learned early on are vital building blocks for life. Because of the Y, more young people in neighborhoods around the nation are taking a greater interest in learning and making smarter life choices. At the Y, children and teens learn values and positive behaviors, and can explore their unique talents and interests, helping them realize their potential. That makes for confident kids today and contributing and engaged adults tomorrow.

With so many demands on today's families, parents need all the support they can get. That's why child care at the Y is about more than looking after kids. It's about nurturing their development by providing a safe place to learn foundational skills, develop healthy, trusting relationships and build self-reliance through the Y values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
Education & LeadershipAll kids have great potential. At the Y, we help them set and achieve their personal and educational goals. They gain confidence as they recognize the Y as a place where they belong and can feel comfortable exploring new interests and passions. Through leadership and academic enrichment programs such as mentoring, youth government and college preparation, we make sure that every child has an opportunity to envision a positive future, and to take an active role in strengthening the community.
Swim, Sports & PlayThe Y is the starting point for many youth to learn about becoming and staying active, and developing healthy habits they'll carry with them throughout their lives. And the benefits are far greater than just physical health. Whether it's gaining the confidence that comes from learning to swim or building the positive relationships that lead to good sportsmanship and teamwork, participating in sports at the Y is about building the whole child, from the inside out.
CampOvernight, day or specialty camps at the Y share one thing: they're about discovery. Kids have the opportunity to explore nature, find new talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting friendships and memories. And, of course, it's fun too.
Our philanthropic gifts create a tremendous ripple effect, from ourselves to our families and on to the world around us – usually reaching so far that we may not even realize the benefits our gifts have created in the lives of others.
When you cast your stone our way, you help ensure a long life for the Kankakee Area YMCA. Your charitable gift contributes to a future of new possibilities for families and children throughout Kankakee County.
In addition, your gifts to the YMCA can benefit your current financial plans and help you meet your family's needs for years to come. Many avenues are available to blend your philanthropic goals with your own financial, tax and estate plans – while ensuring that your resources are utilized to their fullest capacity, for your family and your favorite charitable interests.
In this booklet you will find descriptions of many options that may fit your situation and goals. Please allow us to partner with your legal and tax advisors to help you plan for tomorrow, as well as receive maximum benefits today.
Back in the days before electricity, many cities and towns still could keep their municipalities illuminated at night: they had streetlights that used oil, and later gas. And every night at dusk one man had the job of going to each individual streetlamp, setting it aglow from the torch he carried, and continuing on to the next. Though he had moved on, he left the world behind him bright, safe, and warm. This stalwart of the community was the Lamplighter.
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BODYPUMP™ is the fastest way to shape up and lose body fat. It's a toning and conditioning class with weights and is for just about everybody who wants to add strength training into their aerobic workout. The simplicity of the class makes BODYPUMP™ a great starting point to develop strength and confidence. Hot sounds and compelling choreography keep you going through each 45-minute or one-hour workout. You'll use a step platform, a bar and a set of weights.
If you're new to weights-resistance exercise or you're out of shape, you should start with light weights. After a few classes you'll recognise the correct weight for you. If you're unsure, ask your instructor.
BODYPUMP™ Benefits
Check out this body pump class at the Louisville YMCA


The four core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility form the basis for all activities in the PNC Grow Up Great Preschool Program. Our staff model YMCA values and assist children in developing positive attitudes based on these core values.
An array of daily learning experiences in the program can be found in our Activity Centers. These choices, based on age appropriate activities in a child-centered, fun environment, offer our children a chance to learn, to imagine, to relax—a chance to grow.
Cardio Kickboxing from Kankakee Area YMCA on Vimeo.
Youth Basketball from Kankakee Area YMCA on Vimeo.
The mission of the Kankakee Area YMCA is: "to put Christian principles into practice through programs building healthy spirit, mind, and body for all."