NSYMCA receives $2,500 grant for gymnastics equipment

The North Suburban YMCA recently received a $2,500 grant from the Northbrook Civic Foundation to support the Y's gymnastics program and equipment.

The grant helped close the gap from original funding through the NSYMCA'S Ruth Schultz "Bright Days" Fund. With the two donations combined, the Y was able to purchase an athletic air bag that will elevate the Y's development gymnastics programs and help support skills improvement and safety for more than 170 participants in the program annually.

The inflatable air pit/bag will provide a soft, forgiving landing surface to help prevent injury. Because it is portable, the Y will be able to use this equipment anywhere, allowing them to expand their program offerings to classes like tumbling, cheerleading and acro dance. The air bag acts as a foam pit, but is more hygienic.

"This new equipment was desperately needed to help advance our current programs, and will allow us to expand our preschool and special-needs offerings, such as a possible Special Olympics gymnastics team," said CEO Kathy Fielding.

"We will continue to provide programs to the diverse range of our gymnasts helping them advance their skills or even try new abilities without safety fears."

The Northbrook Civic Foundation, a nonprofit volunteer organization, has given back more than $3.2 million to the community in the form of grants to organizations like the Y or scholarships for students. The money raised comes from Civic's only fundraising event, Northbrook Days. The organization is made up of neighbors and friends who care about the betterment of the Northbrook community.

To learn more about the NSYMCA programs, visit www.nsyma.org or email hbusch@nsymca.org.