Lake Co. YMCA builds a strong community

You could say that one of the highlights of Will Brashear's week is coming to the YMCA.

An adult with special needs, Will initially started taking classes at the YMCA to learn how to swim, his mom, Ernie Brashear, says.

“We joined and found the Y to be a great place for Will to grow, which he's done. He has improved tremendously with his swimming. He used to hang on the edge of the pool. Now he swims half the length.”

Will Brashear says that in addition to swimming, he likes using the weights, walking on the treadmill and playing basketball at the YMCA.

“I feel strong,” Will Brashear says proudly.

Perhaps one of the best things about Will's experiences at the YMCA is the group of friends he's made.

Ernie Brashear explains, “Will likes to hang out and talk with the`hot-tub' guys. This really gives him some nice quality time with adult role models. The regular group of guys in the hot tub has taken to him and shown a real interest in Will.”

“When he's not at the Y, they ask about him. They seek him out and chit chat, which is a great sense of camaraderie. The Y has given Will more confidence,” Ernie Brashear said.

We say that the YMCA has empowered Will to be an integral member of the community. The hot-tub guys just aren't the same without him.

The Lake County Family YMCA is a cause-driven nonprofit that strengthens the community through programs and services that foster youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Founded in 1892 as a 501 (C) 3 nonprofit, our association is comprised of the Central Lake YMCA in Vernon Hills, Northern Lake YMCA in Waukegan and Early Head Start in Waukegan.