Serving youth, seniors, families in Hornell in the wake of Covid-19
By: Johanna Elattar
I’ve recently had the chance to sit down with YMCA CEO Kristoph Kocan, and Natalie Donahue, the Association Membership and Aquatics Director.
In 2011, the Hornell YMCA found a new home, relocating to its current site and bringing with it a wealth of programs and services that have since become integral to the community. Serving South Livingston, Allegheny, and Steuben Counties, the Hornell YMCA has evolved into a hub of activity, offering a diverse range of programs for all ages.
The YMCA is more than just a fitness center; it’s a community nexus with a mission to nurture the physical, mental, and social well-being of its members. In a recent interview, Kristoph Kocan, the CEO of the Hornell Family YMCA, emphasized the organization’s commitment to enhancing the lives of the people it serves.
One of the standout features of the Hornell YMCA is its inclusive approach to membership. The facility caters to a broad demographic, offering adult programs alongside essential child care services. The YMCA collaborates with six school districts, providing state-licensed after-school supervision for children aged 12 and under.
For seniors, the YMCA hosts a range of activities, including the Senior Aquatics program and Rock Steady Boxing. The Coffee Club, meeting every Monday and Thursday at 10:30 a.m., provides seniors with a delightful opportunity to socialize and foster meaningful connections.
Parents and young children can engage in Mommy and Me programs, while the YMCA also offers private instrument lessons on a fee basis. The dynamic environment at the YMCA ensures that programs are constantly evolving to meet the current interests of the community, including activities such as Zumba.
Natalie Donahue, the Association Membership and Aquatics Director, highlighted the swimming lessons and the “Hornell Hammerheads” swim team, which boasts over 30 children competing against other YMCAs and statewide teams. Additionally, the annual “New Year Lock In” is a unique opportunity for children aged 6-12 to spend the night at the YMCA, complete with a pizza party and midnight swimming.
Despite being a hub for recreation, the YMCA is deeply committed to addressing community needs beyond fitness. The facility hosts a food pantry in collaboration with NOYES, providing boxes of food to over 200 families monthly. Free summer lunches from July 1st to Labor Day further underscore the YMCA’s dedication to community well-being.
Financial challenges persist for the YMCA, with inflation, wages, supplies, and utilities creating a need for continuous fundraising efforts. The organization actively pursues grants to offset these expenses and ensure the sustainability of its programs.
The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, forcing the YMCA to close its doors for six months. However, even during lockdowns, childcare services remained open, albeit under strict restrictions. Since reopening, the YMCA has seen a commendable 75-80% participation rate, a testament to the community’s resilience and the YMCA’s essential role in its recovery.
Volunteers play a crucial role in the YMCA’s operations, with approximately 138 volunteers in 2022. All volunteers undergo background checks and certifications, contributing to the safety and success of the programs. The Board of Directors, entirely composed of volunteers, reflects the community’s dedication to supporting the YMCA’s mission.
The YMCA collaborates with Pro Action to assist parents, and ongoing efforts are made to secure sponsorships for youth sports and events. An annual support campaign with a $65,000 goal reflects the community’s commitment to sustaining the YMCA’s impactful programs.
Looking ahead, both Kocan and Donahue express optimism about the YMCA’s future. Plans include expanding membership offers in Hornell and Dansville and seeking additional grants to enhance facilities and programs. As the YMCA continues to adapt and grow, it remains a cornerstone of the community, fostering connections, health, and well-being for all.
Connect with the Hornell Area YMCA: www.hornellymca.com/
Facebook: HornellAreaFamilyYMCA
Johanna Elattar is a Hornell NY-based writer with a focus on community, humanities, and has a special interest in hauntings and horrors!! You can reach her anytime, hauntedhill@yandex.com.
In case you missed her recent piece featuring an interview with author Mcleod Chapman:
