Rocky Mount, Va. (October 25, 2017) – This past weekendthe Franklin County Family YMCA Riptide swim team participated in the Lynchburg YMCA’s invitation and “virtual swim meet.” This first meet of the season had 11 Y team members who swam against not only multiple local teams but were entered into a national database with all Y teams in the country swimming over the same weekend. Out of the swimmers at the meet 28 personal records were set and the team overall cut over 200 seconds off their previous times. In addition, one swimmer made regional cut off times from this meet.

The Y team this year has over 50 registered participants which is an all-time high in participation in more than a decade at the YMCA.

“The growth of our swim team has been great to watch and be a part of. We have some terrific swimmers this year and some dedicated volunteer coaches and parents. It’s going to be a great season,” says Kameron Kitts Aquatics Director with the YMCA.

Rocky Mount, Va. (October 24, 2017) –The Franklin County Family YMCA is poised to expand its Parkinson’s Program, which offers those with the disease a way to manage their symptoms with exercise. The program builds on ScriptFit, a unique YMCA program which gives physician-referred clients access to personal training at a special rate. The Y’s Parkinson’s program is the only one of its kind in Franklin County, and has been steadily growing since its inception last year.

“What makes our program work- the trainers not only know what they’re doing with the equipment, exercises and drills, but they have a personal passion for this type of training, and they know how to translate that to the needs of their clients,” said Kevin McAlexander the YMCA’s Branch Director.

Non-contact boxing training has become a popular and effective approach to managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. The Y’s program began in 2016 after several ScriptFit clients with Parkinson’s enrolled, seeking therapeutic exercise options for the condition.

“Progress is different for each client, but you can see the improvements in their movement and posture happening before your eyes.” said Simpson. 

Simpson draws upon his knowledge and skills as a martial artist and personal trainer to design and conduct training sessions. A typical session combines targeted balance, flexibility, cardio and resistance training with boxing drills.

“We start with drills that warm up the brain’s ability to communicate across hemispheres and respond to changes in balance and stability, then move into strength exercises that target weakened muscles and movement patterns. After that we start working rounds on the double end bag, heavy bag and focus mitts. Throughout all of this, we work in modified jump rope rounds to elevate the heart rate, gradually adding in increasingly challenging footwork and crossovers,” says Simpson.

All of the participants exercise between sessions, using the Y’s indoor track and cardio equipment to log additional time at sustained heart rates.

The program can be modified to meet the needs of the Parkinson’s population, whose symptoms and age-related conditions can vary. Although the clients report improvements in Parkinson’s related symptoms, the program has also helped them to improve in other areas too.  

“Everything is scaled to the individual; if certain symptoms are worse that day, we might change plans and emphasize one area more than others. One client had a significant fall a few weeks ago, but came through it with no injuries, which he and his doctor credit to his involvement in the program. Another started out unable to control his descent onto a chair, now he can bob and weave like he’s been doing it his whole life,” said Simpson.

The brain-health benefits of exercise come from maintaining a moderately elevated heart rate for 20-45 minutes 3-5 days per week, but the best results come from incorporating activities that challenge timing and reaction time, coordination, spatial awareness and problem solving. Boxing training methods are uniquely suited to offer these conditions. There is a significant body of research that shows that moderately intense exercise maintains existing brain cells, supports growth of new ones and encourages circulation and connections between them, improves memory, alertness, mood, cognition, and coordination. These improvements can happen at any age. You can be 17 or 70 and the potential is still there.

ScriptFit is available at all three Franklin County YMCA locations, and the boxing program is available at the Rocky Mount and Smith Mountain Lake branches. For more information on the Y’s Parkinson’s program, ScriptFit, and other programs, contact Randy Simpson at 489-9622. 

Rocky Mount, Va. (September 28, 2017) –The Franklin County YMCA is happy to announce that Victoria Brown is the new Branch Director of the Ferrum College YMCA. Brown has been a familiar face to many at the Rocky Mount Y, where she developed a reputation as a knowledgeable and friendly fitness professional. In two yearsas a personal trainer, Fitness Coordinator and program instructor, she developed innovative programs such as Moving with Mommy, an exercise class for new mothers, and Ladies Who Lift, a women’s powerlifting class.  Brown will apply her innovation and initiative to bring similar programs to the Ferrum branch.

"I'm excited to become a part of Ferrum College and look forward to creating a great environment for wellness and community on this beautiful campus," says Brown. “Starting this fall, we will be offering new programs for the campus as well as for the community.”

Brown also brings her experience as a collegiate athlete and area youth soccer coach to the Ferrum Y, which works closely with Ferrum College Athletic teams. Ferrum’s Academic programs also use the Y as an extension of classroom learning, and for the past year, Brown has worked in partnership with Ferrum College staff to develop wellness programs for the campus community.Her colleagues at the Rocky Mount are also excited about the changes coming to the Ferrum location.

“Victoria has a personal passion for fitness and an excellent track record of successful program development and delivery,” said YMCA Membership Director Kevin McAlexander. “We are excited for the fresh ideas and enthusiasm that she brings to this role! We've already had a lot of positivefeedback from the campus community.”

For more information about the Ferrum YMCA's schedule and programs, call 489-9622, or visit the Ferrum YMCA Facebook page. 

"Great things are on the way! Stop in and see us!" said Brown.

Rocky Mount, Va. (August 22, 2017) – The Franklin County Family YMCA announced today that a long time member and class participant Jessica Mitchell has become the Y’s new Group Exercise Coordinator taking over for Christy Ploch.

“I am honored and thrilled to be the YMCA's new Group Exercise Coordinator. I have big shoes to fill with Christy Ploch stepping back from this role. She has been a huge impact on fitness in Franklin County. I have a huge passion for fitness and am elated to share it with our members,” says Jessica Mitchell.

The position consists of managing around 50 classes a week, multiple instructors and certifications as well as coordinating special events and programs for YMCA members.  The Y’s group exercise classes are offered weekly at no additional charge to all YMCA members. The classes include Yoga, Zumba, kettlebell classes, bootcamp style classes, low impact classes, even a Moving with Mommy class for new moms and their child.

“We have an amazing group of instructors that all have something different to offer our members. We have classes for all levels and all ages. I hope to bring new programs, new classes and put my personal touch on our program. We have a loyal group of members that come to all our classes and it just makes it more fun to work out together. We laugh and push each other while getting healthy! I look forward to new faces that haven't given us a try. You will get hooked, I promise!” says Mitchell.

For more information on the Y’s group exercise schedule call 540-489-9622. 

YMCA PRESCHOOL INSPIRES YOUTH INVOLVEMENT

Rocky Mount, Va. (March 20, 2017) - The Rocky Mount Baptist Church worked on a youth project over the summer where 18 youth (at VBS) painted crates and tires for the Y Land of Wonder Preschool. The colorful crates are being used in each classroom to hold the children's blocks, puzzles, books, etc. The tires will be used to extend the preschool's vegetable garden outside. 

This is the second year that Land of Wonder Preschoolers helped plant and maintains a garden outside of their playground. They've been learning all about "farm to table" and the importance of farmers, gardening, & healthy eating. 

“We'd like to thank the Rocky Mount Baptist Church Youth Group for reaching out to our preschool and providing us with some beautiful additions for our school! Thanks to the Sweeney Family for delivering these to the Y and to Erin Lynch for coordinating it all!” says Hope Vaccaro Preschool Director with the Y.

The Y Land of Wonder Preschool runs year-round and is open Mon - Fri, 6AM - 6PM. For more information about our preschool (rated as a VA Quality Center) please call 540-489-9622

YMCA OFFERS FREE KNITTING CLUB FOR CHARITY

Rocky Mount, Va. (August 29, 2017) – The Franklin County Family YMCA announced today that its Knitting Club will return this fall and continue through the spring. The group is free to everyone in the community and meets the second and fourth Tuesday every month from 2pm to 5pm at the Y in Rocky Mount. The group is led by master knitter, YMCA member and volunteer Shelia Pierce.

“I really enjoy teaching and passing on my knowledge of knitting.  I have been knitting and crocheting from my childhood, and have taught here in Franklin County for over 20 years,” says Pierce.

The items knitted during the program are donated to a local charity called Adele’s Legacy which gives the clothing items to children in the area. The group will learn to knit scarves, hats and even sweaters. No experience is necessary for someone to join the group and advanced knitters are also welcome.

“We are so happy to be able to offer this program to the community at no charge. Shelia is an excellent instructor and I think people will really enjoy themselves,” says Randy Simpson Fitness Director at the YMCA.

This will be the seventh year the program has been offered at the Y and is set to begin on September 26^th. For more information call 540-489-9622.

 Rocky Mount, Va. (August 22, 2017) – The Franklin County Family YMCA announced today that a long time member and class participant Jessica Mitchell has become the Y’s new Group Exercise Coordinator taking over for Christy Ploch.

“I am honored and thrilled to be the YMCA's new Group Fitness Director. I have big shoes to fill with Christy Plough stepping back from this role. She has been a huge impact on fitness in Franklin County. I have a huge passion for fitness and am elated to share it with our members,” says Jessica Mitchell.

The position consists of managing around 50 classes a week, multiple instructors and certifications as well as coordinating special events and programs for YMCA members. The Y’s group exercise classes are offered weekly at no additional charge to all YMCA members. The classes include Yoga, Zumba, kettlebell classes, bootcamp style classes, low impact classes, even a Moving with Mommy class for new moms and their child.

“We have an amazing group of instructors that all have something different to offer our members. We have classes for all levels and all ages. I hope to bring new programs, new classes and put my personal touch on our program. We have a loyal group of members that come to all our classes and it just makes it more fun to work out together. We laugh and push each other while getting healthy! I look forward to new faces that haven't given us a try. You will get hooked, I promise!” says Mitchell.

For more information on the Y’s group exercise schedule call 540-489-9622.

The FRESH Coalition and the Franklin County Family YMCA partnered to host an After Prom event on April 29^th from 11:30pm to 3am. This is the second year the event was offered to Junior and Senior students and their prom dates. The event is designed as a fun, safe and drug/alcohol free alternative for students to attend after they leave prom.

“We were excited to host the event again this year. It’s important for kids to have a safe and fun place to go and enjoy themselves after prom. It’s a special time in the lives of youth and we are so happy to be a part of it,” says Jamie Stump, Child Care Coordinator with the YMCA.

Nationally, statistics show that a third of alcohol related traffic accidents for teens happen during “peak prom season” which is from April to June.  Parents need to be aware of the increased risk of parties with underage drinking and the potential dangers that come with these parties.  Parents should take positive measures to help ensure that these special times are safe and drug free for their teens.   Parents should also be aware that providing alcohol to minors is against the law and allowing underage alcohol consumption on their property is dangerous and illegal, especially for youth.  Binge drinking, consuming 4-5 drinks within two hours, is especially common during times of celebration and is extremely risky for teenagers whose brains are still developing.  In a recent survey of high school students by AAA, 44% said that it was likely they or their friends would consume alcohol or drugs on prom night.  The FRESH Prevention Coalition is hosting this event as a safe opportunity for youth to have fun and celebrate without the need or pressure to include alcohol or other substances.   

“We want teens to feel like they have options for celebrating this exciting time in their life.  It’s great when they realize they can hang out without the need for using alcohol as a crutch to have fun, “ stated Regina Clark, coordinator of the FRESH Coalition. 

FRESH also partnered with the Office of the Sheriff to promote students committing to a safe prom season by signing a “Prom Promise” stating they will commit to being drug and alcohol free during prom.  “A Prom Promise is a great way to promote and commit to a safe prom night for students and it’s a promise they’re making to their friends, family, school, and community.  We care about our kids and want them to be safe,” commented Officer Joe Wooldridge, Student Resource Officer at Franklin County High School.  Students who participated in the prom promise and attended the After Prom Party were entered for a chance a cash prize. 

This year’s event had a live DJ, numerous door prizes including a chance to win a free car, inflatables, donated refreshments from McDonald’s and the Y’s swimming pool will be open. The event is free to all Junior and Senior students and their dates. Doors will be locked at 12:30am so students wishing to attend must arrive before then. 

This past weekend the Franklin County Family YMCA Riptide swim team participated in the Piedmont YMCA Swimming Association’s annual championship meet.  The team overall placed highly and saw several swimmers set meet records.

“We are so proud of the Y’s swimmers. They put a lot of time into training and practicing and it has been great to see them develop and improve over the season,” says J.T. Boyd the Riptide Swim Coach.

A total of 13 swim teams competed in the championship meet from March 3^rd to the 5^th. The Riptide boy's swim team placed 2nd, and the Riptide swim team placed 4th overall, despite having less swimmers than many of the larger teams. Four swimmers were high point winners. High point winners are awarded to the individual who scored the most points in the meet for their respective age group, a total of 12 groups. Allison Teer won high point winner for 13-14 girls, Mallorie Teer won for 11-12 girls, Griffon Lester won high point winner for 6 and under boys and Gabe Lester won for 9-10 boys. Three swimmers also came in second for high point winner, Grayson Altice for 7-8 boys, Levi Wright for 13-14 boys, and Brendan Dow for 15 and older boys. Several swimmers also broke championship swim meet records including Griffon Lester setting a new record for 6 and under boys 100 yard freestyle and Maddox Conley setting a new record for 8 and under 25 yard breaststroke.

The YMCA team which competes year round, has had an exceptional season. Swimmers range in age from 5 to 17 and are taught sportsmanship as well as swimming skills.  The team started back in the late 90’s and has been a part of the Franklin County Y for nearly 20 years. The 2017 season is one of the best in the history of the Y with many swimmers breaking team and meet records.

“It’s incredibly important for the Y’s aquatics center to be available to all in the community,” says Kameron Kitts Aquatics Director with the YMCA. He goes on to say “That’s why we partner with Franklin County Public Schools for the High School Swim Team and the Y’s second grade swim program, with Carilion for aquatic physical therapy and even the Creek Freaks for kayak clinics. But we are especially proud of our Y team and all they’ve accomplished this season and are so grateful to our coach, swimmers, swim parents, volunteers and meet judges.”

The YMCA is currently accepting new swimmers for the program’s spring/summer season which runs from May to July. To join stop by the YMCA in Rocky Mount or for more information call the Y at 540-489-9622.

RETIRED SHERIFF’S DEPUTY MAKES BIG DIFFERENCE FOR YMCA

Rocky Mount, Va. (March 3, 2017) –Neil Moses retired from the Roanoke City Sheriff’s office after over 20 years of service to dedicate more time to his growing cleaning business Next Level Building Solutions. Next Level prides itself on being a top notch full service commercial cleaning business that now employees nearly 30 individuals under the leadership of Ashley Rogers the General Manager. After becoming a janitorial services provider for the Franklin County Family YMCA Neil decided to make a donation to the Y to help the overall appearance of the building.

“We originally asked Next Level in to do a one-time cleaning of the locker room facilities but they looked so much better we decided we had to retain their services. It was at that time Mr. Moses said he was interested in donating new carpet to the YMCA facility,” says Jim Currie CEO of the Franklin County YMCA.

The YMCA facility which is nearly twenty years old is in the progress of making improvements to energy efficiency and overall appearance so it was a perfect time to install new carpet. Working with a local flooring provider Mr. Moses donated and installed over 800 square feet of new carpet to the YMCA’s Rocky Mount location. The new carpet is commercial grade and designed to handle the high traffic volume of the busy YMCA location.

“I could have cleaned the older carpet and made it look good but knowing how important the Y is to Franklin County I wanted to do a little bit more. It’s important for Next Level to not only offer our customers the best possible janitorial and floor services but to help our community. In this case we were able to do both,” says Moses.

Next level has customers from Harrisonburg, Virginia all the way to Kannapolis, North Carolina and specializes in janitorial services, floor polishing, tile and grout restoration and carpet extractions. The YMCA is a 501 (c)(3) non -profit serving over 7,000 members in the Franklin County area. 

CREEK FREAKS AND YMCA PARTNER TO OFFER KAYAK PROGRAMS

New Kayak program to be offered on Sundays at the YMCA.

Rocky Mount, Va. (February 12, 2016) – The Creek Freaks paddling club will be offering Kayak centered “open paddling” at the Franklin County Family YMCA’s aquatic center in Rocky Mount. The program, which will be held on Sundays from 2:30pm to 4:30pm from February until the end of March, will be an open format for participants to practice rolls, strokes and other techniques.

“This is the third year we have hosted the Creek Freak’s open paddle program in our pool. It is a great opportunity for people to practice techniques in “calm” waters before spring and summer season get here,” says Kevin McAlexander Branch Director at the Rocky Mount Facility.

The Creek Freaks are a group of outdoor enthusiasts that love to paddle all over the region and take a special interest in The Franklin County blueways according to their Facebook page.

People interested in participating in the program can attend by bringing their cleaned boat to the YMCA on any scheduled Sunday excluding February 21^st and the cost is $5 per participant.  

 OVER 500 CHILDREN GRADUATE SWIM PROGRAM SO FAR

The Franklin County YMCA concludes instruction second grade swim program for the year.

Rocky Mount, Va. (January 5th, 2016) The Franklin County Family YMCA has taught swim lessons to 536 second grade students as a part of its 2015 safe swim program. The classes began back in August and finished up on December 18^th. Each class, from all 12 elementary schools, received 10 days of instruction individualized to each swimmers skill level.

The primary focus of the program is to teach children lifesaving skills to help prevent drowning. 451 students out of the overall group have reached a level where in a water emergency they could save themselves or survive until help arrived. To make certain each student is able to learn something new from the program four different curriculums (beginner to advanced) are employed. At a basic level students learn to be comfortable in the water, to float and not to panic. At the advanced level students are given the opportunity to refine basic swim strokes and tread water for long periods of time.

“Nationally drowning is the 3^rd most common accidental cause of death for children. So, the most important thing for us, as instructors, is to teach the kids to be safe in and around water,” says TJ Ross the Aquatics Coordinator with the YMCA.

In addition to instruction time, children get free time to play and practice the skills they’ve learned. On the final day of a school’s lessons, parents are invited to observe what their children have learned.

“This community has been really been supportive of this program. Everyone seems to really believe in what we are doing and how important it is to our youth. It’s been great year for the program and we are already beginning to fund raise for next year’s 2^nd grade class. If you would like to make a donation to the program you can do so on our website, by mail, or in person at the YMCA. I would also be happy to come talk to any organization about a sponsorship for this program.” says Andrea Fansler, Director of Development with the Y. 

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO THIS GREAT PROGRAM!

The Smith Mountain Lake YMCA Offers Extended Hours

The Lakewatch location will be accessible until midnight.

Smith Mountain Lake, VA. (October 16, 2015) – Starting October 19^th the Franklin County YMCA at its Smith Mountain Lake location, will offer access until midnight through its Access Advantage Program. Using the Advantage card, members can use the facility from 5:00am to midnight, seven days per week.

Extended hours have not been previously offered, so this new convenience is expected to increase membership. Both existing members and new members can purchase an Advantage card to receive access by filling out an application beginning Monday, October 19th. Participants in the program will pay only a one-time fee of $25 for the Y Advantage card.

“This program will make it more convenient for those who work during the day, by reaching people in the community who believe in the YMCA’s mission, but cannot find time during the day to work out at the Y. This program was designed to meet member request and is another example of how the Y serves our community,” says Branch Director Lauren Acker.

The new Access Advantage card will allow members to use all of the exercise equipment, but not the gym or the tennis courts.

 For more information on the Access Advantage Program at the Smith Mountain Lake YMCA call (540)721-9622.

WOMEN LEARN SELF DEFENSE TECHNIQUES AT YMCA

The Franklin County YMCA offered a one day women’s self-defense seminar in Rocky Mount.

Rocky Mount, Va. (October 19, 2015) – In partnership with the Town of Rocky Mount Police department the Franklin County Family YMCA offered a one day women’s self-defense seminar at its Rocky Mount Facility this past Saturday.

Women from all over Franklin County participated in the seminar at the YMCA learning self-confidence, protection under the law, defensive tactics and other practical safety tips. The Y in partnership with the Town of Rocky Mount police have offered a self-defense program to the community since 2009. Sergeant of Investigation Josh Harris and Community Resource Officer Ryan King offered instruction for this course.

"I enjoyed watching my teenage daughter who attended the class with me build confidence and learn valuable skills," says Tara Holley a participant who attended the program.

This fun class was designed to cover the essentials without requiring a longer time commitment from participants. The Y will be offering several more of these programs in the coming months. For more information contact the Rocky Mount YMCA at 540-489-9622.

Dodge, Duck, Dip, Dive, & Dodge

The Franklin County YMCA Held its First Ever Dodgeball Tournament

Smith Mountain Lake, VA. (July 23, 2015) - The Smith Mountain Lake YMCA held its first ever dodgeball tournament on Thursday, July 23^rd. Four teams of six competed for prizes including Benny Adelina’s gift certificates, water bottles and free passes to the YMCA. The competition was intense and the team gear was on point. Super heroes and neon headbands were on full display. Josh Harkema, referee and DJ kept the party going with funny commentary and a mix of classic and current hits.

The Gym Class Heroes pictured below went home with the prizes and bragging rights. From left to right  Kelly Alderman, Taylor Richardson, Sandy Nicely, Joey Shervey, Alex Alderman, and Garrett Ruggeri.  “The tournament was a great success, it brought the community together and everyone had fun! We definitely want to make this tournament an annual event and are considering having a dodgeball league! I think once the word gets out about this fun, active, and social sport, it will become popular in the area.” - Lauren Acker, Branch Director

Interested in seeing the dodgeball league happen? Contact Lauren at (540)721-9622 or at lacker@franklincountyymca.org

Its new partnership with area doctors improves residents health.

The Franklin County Family YMCA announced today a new Script Fit program that partners with area doctors to give their patients a “prescription” for exercise. Participating doctors are able to refer patients to the program which includes a YMCA membership, one-on-one training sessions with a certified personal trainer, a full body analysis using the high tech Inbody machine and even email reports of Inbody evaluations.

This 3 month program is offered at a substantially discounted rate to area residents if referred by their doctor. The patient’s Inbody results are transmitted to the doctor electronically from the Inbody machine and includes body fat, segmental muscle mass and metabolic rate.

“We have seen big personal benefits from this program. One client has lost 3.3 pounds of fat, increased muscle mass by 5 pounds, lost weight overall, reduced visceral fat (the dangerous stuff) by 1 point and the most exciting thing is that blood pressure was reduced by more than 40 points! It was 200/140 and is now 160/90. This program clearly improves our community’s health,” says Pam Turman Fitness Director at the YMCA.

Script Fit which began in May, is a comprehensive approach to wellness built on accurate health assessments, one-on-one sessions with a certified trainer along with motivation and support. Participating Franklin County doctors include Dr. Trochim, Dr. Payne, Dr. Tiffany Grace, Dr. Stubbs, Dr. Amos, PA Tina Muse and Dr. Bumgardner among others.

“The YMCA is encouraging all doctors to join this program to help their patients. Because this “win win” program is making a huge difference in our own backyard,” says Turman.

This newest health initiative is a part of a wider YMCA mission to make true wellness available for all residents. Since 1998 the Y has focused on creating a comprehensive approach to building healthy spirt, body and mind across its 3 locations in Franklin County. They offer everything from free weights, to cardio equipment, to group exercise classes, to water exercise and indoor tennis.

For more information on participating in this program as a physician or as a patient Pam Turman at the YMCA can be contacted at 540-489-9622.

Throughout the entire month of January Franklin County YMCA is offering a $5 joiner fee to anyone signing up for membership. New Year, New You! Sign up today.

We will be expanding our Wellness Program by Partnering with The Edge.

Click here for more information.

Click Here and check it out!