The Butler YMCA has been active in Butler County since 1886. Its leadership has seen its share of challenges and continues to meet them head on.

After a membership high in March 2019 of close to 5,000 people, the YMCA moved quickly to adapt as the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and health mandates plunged membership to 3,200. Staff members were more than kind to those who called to put their memberships on hold and offered virtual classes to help those isolating at home, but still trying to maintain their wellness needs.

That compassion, perseverance and belief in its mission has rocketed this community keystone back to 4,000 members. Congratulations.

“When you hit 4,000 members you feel it,” said Heidi Nicholls Bowser, the Butler YMCA’s healthy living and membership director.

The wellness goals that the YMCA fulfills hit more than muscle development and cardiovascular endurance.

Those strengthening at 339 N. Washington St. are some of our most vulnerable citizens — children and seniors.

While children learn to swim, play basketball or relax in the youth center, they are surrounded by positive role models and inspired by achievements of others. Above the lap pool — it's named for the man who taught so many to swim, John “Pump” McLaughlin — are records of YMCA swimmers including one of his students, Olympic-great Eric Namesnik.

For youths who need a more structured program to overcome low self-esteem, academic difficulties or poor decision-making skills, the YMCA brings in community mentors in its Reach and Rise program.

At the other end of the membership demographic, seniors make up a quarter of those using the YMCA's services.

Nicholls Bowser reports there are about 1,000 senior citizens gathering for everything from pickleball and yoga to pool jogging and safe-driving classes.

“People who exercise together are also the ones who stick with it,” she said.

The impact of programs for older adults keeps them on track for healthy bodies, and also healthy spirits and minds. The YMCA has become a gathering place, whether to swap a book or make a new friend. Young, old and those in between share a safe, clean space and enjoy healthy activities in a respectful, inclusive environment. A place to foster strong families.

The organization also opens it doors to community groups that need a place to meet, and hosts activities to nourish the soul such as its recent 75th annual Good Friday Breakfast. And for those who cannot afford a membership, financial assistance is offered through the YMCA's annual Support Campaign.

Its 4,000 members are only the tip of the nonprofit's reach and influence. But this kind of success doesn't come without hard work and a constant effort to meet current needs.

The YMCA is supported not only by those who join, but the leadership of boards filled with community movers and shakers, and through corporate partnerships that bring their employees into the facility as well as funds to further the YMCA's work.

We wish the YMCA continued success.

While adapting to many challenges, the Butler YMCA's mission has guided it well for 136 years: “To put Christian principals into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.”

— DJS