The YMCA Is Building a Healthier Community in Chattanooga
Sponsored by: YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga
For the teacher who wants more energy at home or the educator navigating daily stress, the YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga is stepping in with meaningful support.
“I was planning to hike in Oregon with my daughter and wanted to get in shape for that. Plus, physical activity helps me cope with anxiety,” says Kelley Evatt, a bookkeeper with the Hamilton County Department of Education in Chattanooga.
Corporate Memberships for Schools and Nonprofits
Across Tennessee’s Hamilton and Bradley counties, hundreds of teachers and school staff like Evatt have joined the YMCA through their employer – part of the Y’s growing effort to bring wellness and community to schools and other nonprofits across the region.
“Two personal trainers from the YMCA held free classes for us on Tuesdays and Thursdays,” Evatt says. “Any employee was invited to attend.”
Through corporate membership, employees gain access to key benefits: nationwide Y membership, wellness coaching, discounts on Y programs and on-site fitness classes. These benefits make it easier for employees to stay active, reduce stress and feel connected, contributing to healthier, more productive workplaces.
“I want to help spread the word about the classes when school starts again,” Evatt says. “Allie, our instructor, was really great about pushing our limits but still being mindful of everyone’s physical abilities.”
Income-based Assistance
For teachers or school staff who cannot afford membership (through the corporate discount), the YMCA offers income-based membership. The unique sliding-fee scale ensures that no one is turned away from the YMCA for inability to pay. Annual donations support this and other Y programs that help children, adults and families in the community. Today, 16% of all members receive this support – double the number from just two years ago. The YMCA plans to grow that to serve even more people.
Knowing that many nonprofit employees would qualify for income-based assistance, the YMCA is inviting more nonprofits to become corporate partners. The goal? To provide more access to the Y and to build healthy spirit, mind and body for all – both at work and at home.
Learn more about the local YMCA, its eight branches and corporate membership at ymcachattanooga.org.
Find Success in Greater Chattanooga
Learn more about the region’s business and economic opportunities at livability.com/chattanooga-region.