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If it wasn’t for the cake and other refreshments, they might not have realized this was something special.
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Eight year old Emily Mihalovic climbs through the galaxy Explorer fro the big Events Inflatables with her friends at the YMCA’s 125th anniversary celebration . Dick Riniker photo |
For the adults, however, marking the YMCA’s 125th anniversary in La Crosse is a different story.
The YMCA and its 17,250 members have spent the past several days celebrating the impact the YMCA has had in the community since it was organized in 1883.
Over the past 125 years, the YMCA’s programs have evolved with time in an effort to offer what it can to the entire community, which is one reason it is as strong today as it has been any time in its history, said Nate Hundt, marketing director for the La Crosse Area Family YMCA.
“The YMCA continues to do what we have always done — provide a place that caters to people’s health and wellness and bring people together from all parts of the community,” Hundt said. “The YMCA’s strength is in being open to everyone regardless of their financial standing and being able to roll with the changes and respond to the community’s needs.”
After holding a Legacy Luncheon, Membership Appreciation Day and Honorary Member Breakfast, the Y held its Family Fun Fest on Saturday to honor youth and family members.
During the anniversary party, the YMCA hosted a free family event with activities for young people, along with cake, games, outdoor entertainment and more. The anniversary celebration wraps up today with a community open house, so people can learn more about the YMCA and its programs.
What started as a reading room for young men has expanded to include facilities in La Crosse and Onalaska and, Hundt added, may expand into other communities as well.
For the past 100 years, the YMCA has had just two homes — a building at Seventh and Main streets, which is now part of Western Technical College and the existing building at West Avenue and Main Street.
Opened in 1909, the Seventh and Main building was dedicated by President William Taft and was replaced by the existing facility, which opened in 1969 as a joint YMCA/YWCA building that cost $1.7 million.
The La Crosse Area Family YMCA is open to men, women, and children of all ages, incomes, abilities, races and religions. About 20 percent of members receive financial assistance, Hundt said.
IF YOU GO
What: La Crosse Area Family YMCA community open house is part of its 125th anniversary
celebration. There will be no guest pass fee to visit the YMCA. Along with cake and refreshments, there will be tours so nonmembers can see how the building has changed and learn more about the YMCA’s programs and membership rates, including financial assistance.
When: 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.today.
Where: La Crosse Area Family YMCA, West Avenue and Main Street.
More Information: Visit www.laxymca.org or call the YMCA at (608) 782-9622.
