June 4, 2020
Dear Friends,
As we approach our third month of sheltering in place, I hope that you are starting to see a glimmer of light ahead. With the number of COVID cases declining and nearly every region of the state slowly reopening, we have reason for continued vigilance and cautious optimism.
I'm pleased to share the following updates with you. Some of our news is hopeful, some of it is disappointing; but know that the Rye Y is here for you whatever comes our way.
Summer Camp
On June 2, Governor Cuomo finally announced that summer camps can reopen at the end of June. However, we still do not have direction from the NYS Department of Health or the governor's office on the type of restrictions that will be in place. In light of so much uncertainty this late in the spring and the preparation required for camp even under normal circumstances, we feel that we cannot effectively plan for a safe and well-run camp for the families we serve.
Therefore, we have made the very difficult decision to cancel the 2020 camp season. This is the first time in over 70 years that the Rye Y will not offer day camp and we will miss our campers deeply. That being said, we're busy making alternative plans for our camp families...
Summer Childcare Program
Knowing that many of our families rely on camp for child care, we will run a full-day summer childcare program at the Rye Y. Open on a first-come, first-serve basis to families who had registered for camp, the program will serve up to 60 children ages 5-12 with extended hours for parents who need the extra time.
Reopening and Facility Updates
Although we don't yet have an exact reopening date, we hope to welcome you back in early to mid-July, based on the Governor's New York Forward business reopening criteria. We continue to work on planning a phased reopening plan that follows state guidelines and prioritizes safety for everyone. Stay tuned!
In preparation for our reopening, Facilities Director Robert Maxwell and his team are hard at work. They have installed a plexiglass barrier around the Member Services desk and new hand-sanitizing dispensers around the building. And they've deep cleaned all areas of the building. Our staff is also tackling some of the maintenance work that usually happens at the end of August, including floor re-surfacing in the gym and Group Exercise studio and draining and cleaning both pools.
Annual Campaign
If this were a normal spring, we would already be deep into our Annual Campaign, asking you to donate generously so we can keep Y programs and activities accessible to all. This year has been a difficult one for the Y, as with many nonprofits, and we will be relying on your generosity to help us support those in need. With so many jobs lost, and so much illness in the communities we serve, we know that many families will need a helping hand. I hope that you will consider a generous donation when you see our appeal.
Celebrations!
Last Sunday, the Rye Y cheered for the Class of 2020 as RHS students and their families caravanned through Rye with horns honking and balloons waving in a car parade. We congratulate all of Rye's high school seniors. We're proud of you!
And last Thursday, Rye Y staff held a car parade of our own in our parking lot for Jesus Duchimaza, a member of our maintenance team who retired after 32 years with the Rye Y! Jesus was dedicated, hardworking and always had a kind smile. We will miss him but wish him well in retirement.
Your Membership
Thank you once again to all those who have stayed with the Y during our temporary closure. If you have any questions about your membership, please contact Barbara Hughes at
[email protected]
.
Finally, I close this week's message with a reflection on the racial injustice that is dividing our country. I have been proud to spend my entire career working for the YMCA, a movement that welcomes all people and treats everyone with respect and kindness. The tragic and unjustifiable loss of Black lives have laid bare the inequities in our country. It is my fervent hope that we - as Y members and staff - take the YMCA values of inclusion and compassion out into the world. We all have a role to play in confronting racism and we intend to explore how the Rye Y can make a difference, today, tomorrow, and for our children's children.
Sincerely,
Gregg Howells
Executive Director
