Look What’s Happening at the Portage YMCA – April 2, 2013

ymca-new-logo-blueChild Care and Development Center (full time child care)
We currently have openings for 2 year olds in our State Licensed Child Care Center. “The Child Care Center is not just a place where parents take their kids while they are at work. We provide a safe environment to nurture the potential of every child through creative learning and teaching techniques lead by caring nurturing teachers and support staff. NOW OFFERING 1 free week of child care after 2 weeks of service to new 2 year old students. Please contact Abbie Prasco, CCDC Director, to schedule a tour today at (219) 762-9622. CCDF Vouchers and assistance available.

Before and After School - Y-Care
The Y offers before and after school care (Y-Care) for children in grades 1 thru 5 enrolled in one of the six Portage Township Elementary Schools that are located in Portage. The program provides guided, structured and educational activities in a safe and secure, fun environment with low child to staff ratio. Children can be dropped off before school as early as 6:30 a.m. and picked up after school as late as 6:00 p.m. Program fees vary according to hours of usage. Financial assistance is available and CCDF vouchers accepted.

YMCA to Hold Camp Counselor Auditions
The Portage Township YMCA is looking for fun, energetic, creative, active adults to be positive role models for our Summer Day Camp. 2013 Summer Day Camp Counselor auditions will be Wednesday April 3rd, Wednesday April 10th and Monday April 25th. Appointment is necessary. Please fill out an application at the Welcome Center Desk indicating an interest in becoming a camp counselor. The YMCA Summer Day camp is scheduled to run from Monday, June 10, 2013 – Friday, August 16, 2013 from 9am-3pm. For more information regarding these programs please contact Ms.CC, SACC Coordinator at 219-762-YMCA(9622) or at Ms.CC@ymcaofportage.org.

PRESCHOOL REGISTRATION
It’s not too early to register for 2013-14 school year preschool academy . Register early to receive a spot. Morning/afternoon 2, 3 and 4 day a week classes. Financial assistance scholarships are available to those who qualify. Please call the Y at 219-762-9622 or e-mail cathi@ymcaofportage.org for details or questions.

Gymnastics
Jump off the beam, flip over the bars, follow your dreams, and reach for the stars. As part of the Y’s focus on Youth Development the Y offers gymnastic for ages 2 through their spectacular “Sparklers” gymnastics team. Gain confidence, strength, and balance and learn the importance of teamwork with Y gymnastics. Stop in for details or go to www.ymcaofportage.org.

Beyond the Classroom
Kids Fit and Fun (ages 3-8 yr) Participants will take part in a high energy mix of sports and fitness activities to get them moving for the first half of the class. Different hands on activities such as crafts, cooking, games and songs for a fun filled second half of class. Minimum of 5 participants to run class. Monday’s: 4:00-5:00p.m. Monthly Class Fees: $15.50 Primary Plus, $21 Primary, $42 Non-Members

Stay & Play (ages 18 months-3 yrs) Part of this interactive class will consist of a mix of making crafts, playing games and listening to stories with part of the class being structured activity time. Minimum of 3 participants to run class. Class meets in the multipurpose room on: Monday’s 10 a.m. Monthly Class Fees: $14 Primary Plus, $20 Primary, $40 Non-Members

Bound to Blossom
5K Run/Walk Fun Run - May 4, 8:30 am Enjoy a spring morning in the outdoors with others who enjoy group running/walking. Register today. Early registration ends April 24, 2013 in order to guarantee a shirt. Walk-in registration begins at 7:30 am.

Computers
Basic computers will begin their new session this Monday, April 8 and run thru June 24. Classes take place on Monday evenings from 6-7 pm. Computer II will be held monthly beginning April 8. Computers II is held on Monday evenings from 7-8pm. Register today!

Aquacise
NEW! NEW! low-impact class at the Portage High School West Pool. Please register at the YMCA. Money will not be accepted at the pool. The class will run from April 3 thru April 29 on Monday’s and Wednesday’s from 6:15-7:00 pm. $12 for Members and $24 for Non-Members. We will not prorate this class.

Healthy Kids Day
It’s a great day for kids to get a jump on summer! Join us on Saturday, April 20 for a free community event from 10am-noon. From sports to crafts to healthy snacks this event is always a hit for families. Summer camp registration will begin on this day for children entering Kindergarten thru age 13. Camp consists of field trips, daily swimming, educational activities and of course lots of fun at the Portage High School West. CCDF vouchers and financial assistance accepted. Camp runs June 10 thru August 16 from 6:30am – 6:00 pm.

FREE Walk this Way
The YMCA in conjunction with the City of Portage is now offering a walking club. This club will walk every Tuesday. This community club does not require a membership to the YMCA. Interested walkers/runners can meet in the YMCA lobby at 9:45 am. The “Rails to Trails” will be utilized for this program. During inclement weather, the YMCA track will be used. Membership not needed.

FREE Running Club
Free Community Running Club is for amateur runners who will meet in the YMCA lobby every Tuesday evening at 6:00 p.m. Membership not needed. Dress for the weather. All 1 hour runs will be outside unless it is lightening or below 15 degrees. Participants will be running 3-5 miles with calisthenics and stretching. Must be 14 and up to participate. Fun Zone is only available to YMCA Members.

Volleyball
Thursday night volleyball free for Y-members 14 and older from 7-9 pm. Non-Members pay only $10. Advanced Court and recreational court available. Parent or guardian must sign in participant.

St. Mary Medical Center

Keeping your Colon Happy
Thurs., March 28th; 10:30am
Senior Bonner Center
Looking for ways to keep your colon happy? In recognition of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, join us for a seminar and Q & A session about colon cancer. Peter Mavrelis, MD, Gastroenterology will be discussing screening opportunities and prevention for colon cancer and ways to treat diverticulosis. Blood screenings will be available beginning at 10am. Free. Register: 219-764-7217.

Foot Problems 101
Mon., Apr 8; 6 p.m.
Portage Township YMCA Multi-Purpose Room
Are your feet or toes hurting or looking odd these days? In recognition of Foot Health Awareness Month, join us for a seminar and Q & A session about common foot problems. Jared Moon, DPM, Podiatry will be discussing common injuries, ailments, and conditions of the feet and their treatment options. FREE. REGISTER: 219-764-7217

Sport Physicals
Portage Township YMCA
Is your child in need of a sport physical? Well look no further. Register your child today for his/her sport physical with employed physicians & nurse practitioners of St Mary Medical Center. It is convenient and at a low-cost $20. Thurs., April 25th, 5-8pm; Sat., May 4th, 9-12pm; -Registration required. For more information please call: 219-764-7217.