Child 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 March 27th, Wednesday April 3rd and Wednesday April 10th. 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 Beginning March 1, 2013 registration will be open to the public. Register early to receive a spot. 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
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 and led by YMCA, Executive Director, Dave Kasarda. During inclement weather, the YMCA track will be used. Membership not needed.
Aquacise-NEW! NEW! March will consist of a 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 March 4 thru March 20 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.
Water Power-45 minute cardio fitness and endurance in the water for all fitness levels. Register at the Y. Class will take place at the PHSW pool on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s from 6:15-7:00 pm from April 2 thru May 30. Registration begins March 21. $36 for members and $72 for non-members.
Spring Break Membership Special-Short term memberships now available. 2 weeks $25, 3 weeks $35, 4 weeks $45. Must be 14 to purchase a membership. Those 14-17 parent signature is required. Must purchase membership by March 29.
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 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
Glucose Screening-In recognition of Diabetes Alert Day, join us at the Portage Township YMCA for a random blood glucose screen. Health & Wellness Coordinator Danny Gonzalez, RN, will be screening and discussing opportunities to prevent and manage diabetes. This will take place in our lobby on Tuesday, March 26th, and during the following hours: 8-9am; 12-1pm; & 5-6pm. These screenings are free and open to the public. Registration is required. To register please call 219-764-7217.
How do I know if I have a concussion?
Mon., March 25th; 6pm
Portage Township YMCA
Multi-Purpose Room
Calling all parents and athletes! In recognition of Brain Injury Awareness Week, join us for a seminar and Q & A session about sports-related concussion injuries. Mark Simaga, MD, Neurology, and John J. Doherty, MS, PT, ATC, will discuss prevention, symptoms, and treatment options. -Free. Register: 219-764-7217.
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.