May 12, 2020

Dear Rye Y Members,
 
Even during this time of stress and worry, there are small joys around every corner - a child's laughter, the scent of a freshly mown lawn, evening walks with family. I am grateful for these, and so much more. At the Y, we're particularly thankful for:  
  • Those of you who donated to our Giving Tuesday Now campaign to raise funds for our Y Cares Financial Assistance and community health programs. Your contribution helps us keep the Rye Y accessible to all. Thank you for your generosity! 
  • Those who completed our recent member survey. Over 950 people responded and while some are ready to return to the Y, many of you aren't ready to come back until this pandemic has eased. We understand. Our staff is working hard to develop a plan that incorporates CDC and health department recommendations for a safe re-opening. (More on that below.) 
  • Those of you who have maintained your membership. Your steadfast support gives us hope for our future. At the same time, we recognize that many people are experiencing economic hardship due to the pandemic. If you're in that category, please reach out to our Membership Engagement Director Barbara Hughes ([email protected]) to discuss membership options. 
  • And last, but not least, we're grateful for our instructors, who learned new technology and helped us launch 45 of your favorite classes, virtually, last week. We appreciate their flexibility and dedication to the Y. We're now offering our members everything from Active Fitness to Zumba. Check out our May schedule at www.ryeymca.org.
As I mentioned above, our program directors and Y leadership have been working on a re-opening plan. Although the plan is still a work in progress, we anticipate several changes to keep our members and staff safe, including (but not limited to):
  • Creating social distancing in various areas by spacing out and/or removing certain pieces of equipment
  • Phased re-opening that brings back certain program areas over time
  • Enhanced protocols for cleaning and disinfecting all areas
  • Limits on the number of people allowed in the building at once
  • Reduced hours and fewer in-person classes (virtual classes will continue)
  • Use of face coverings or masks as appropriate
  • Directional arrows where needed
  • Plexiglass barrier at the front desk
We don't know when our Y will be able to re-open, and we realize that when we do, things will be different. However, the things that matter most-the friendships you've made, the goals you've set, and the community you've found at the Rye Y- these will be waiting for you. In the meantime, please share your experience with us. We want to know how you're using the Y virtually.
 
We look forward to seeing you again and wish you joy, wherever you find it, in the weeks ahead.
 
Sincerely,
 
Gregg Howells
Executive Director
 


 
RYE YMCA, 21 Locust Avenue, Rye, NY -  914-967-6363
www.ryeymca.org