YMCA of Dane County is all about strengthening the local community with programs that promote youth development and healthy living. Its CEO, Mark Westover, spoke about the Y at the Sept. 11 Waunakee Rotary meeting, likening it to preventative programs that are needed just as much as primary caregivers and specialists in our lives. 

YMCA of Dane County was like a rudderless ship when Mark took over as CEO, he said. It had a tight budget and didn’t treat its partners well. He described the financials as “anemic.”

So, the board looked at what strengths it could build upon – mainly the Y’s diversity and its safe space. The Y also had to be intentional about its community support and invest in new equipment and experiences. 

The Y is the largest child care provider in Dane County, and also serves older adults. It has 26,000 members for its three locations. 

For several years, profits suffered, but have grown particularly since COVID. It has three segments – membership, programs and childcare. The Y also has 150 agency partners, including the American Red Cross. It was presented the Red Cross’ Community Impact Hero Award after it provided housing at a converted fitness studio for families displaced after a fire on Allied Drive. Many were Spanish speaking, and the Y’s staff was able to communicate with them and keep the children entertained. 

The Y also gives participants in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program free passes so they have a place to meet and things to do. 

Also, Madison College students who are single parents have access to child care there. 

The Y also offers membership fees on a sliding scale for families of varying incomes. 

Currently, the Y is launching a capital campaign to raise funds for a new facility in Fitchburg to replace the West Side Y. Seven acres have been purchased for the new facility. 

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Other News

• Rotarians can volunteer for a couple of events in October. World Dairy Day is Oct. 1-2, and Stand Down for Veterans is Oct. 25, Phil Willems told the club. 
• This week, a number of Rotarians traveled to Pardeeville to pick up 350 pumpkins for Wauktoberfest. 
• The Chamber Golf Outing is Sept. 17, and there are spaces for single golfers and foursomes. 

Guests

Bernie Kennedy, guest of David Kennedy; Mark Westover, guest of the club.  

Greeters

Sept. 18, Tracy Graber and Shauna Hughey; Sept. 25, David Rupp and Mark McFarland. 

To sign up to greet or to find out if you are greeting, visit: 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054CAAAA2CA7F85-44320149-2023#/