Learn about new YMCA programs Dec. 3

Take time out for you during the holiday season by stopping by the YMCA to get a sneak preview of exciting first-time programs for the new year.

Both the Lake County Family YMCAs in Waukegan and Vernon Hills are hosting the free program showcases from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3.

“We'll offer demonstrations of some exciting new programming that will begin this winter such as percussion, DJ training and urban dance,” said Program Director Phil Tensley of the Northern Lake YMCA, 2000 Western Ave., Waukegan.

“We also are thrilled to be introducing our first YMCA drill team,” Tensley said, adding that the team is being formed and will begin practice at the Y in January. The drill team will be led by Troy Smith, an alumnus of the recently disbanded Angel Drill Team of North Chicago. Smith now leads the National Champion Jazz Steppers, a nationally recognized group that instills discipline through routine and stepping. He will be on hand at the program showcase along with members of his North Chicago-based team.

The schedule for the Waukegan Y includes various interactive presentations:

Mixx Academy will teach individuals how to properly use their creativity to express themselves over a DJ set, as well as how to manage, use, store and maintain equipment.

Participants will be able to shake, rattle and roll with percussion demonstrations including hand drums.

Dance Academy will demonstrate a variety of urban dance techniques featuring instructors who are highly motivated, accredited and full of energy.

In addition, lifeguards will demonstrate rescues and scenarios about how to keep safe in and around the water. People can either participate in or simply watch the water aerobics demonstrations. Water aerobics improves cardiovascular conditioning and enhances body tones. Also, swim team members from the Northern Lake YMCA Seahorse Swim Team and Central Lake YMCA Turtles Swim Team will do mock drills and provide a behind-the-scenes look into the sport of swimming.

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science (RFUMS) students will provide interactive and educational activities that will emphasize the importance of incorporating healthy eating into busy schedules.

The schedule for the Vernon Hills Y, 700 Lakeview Parkway, program showcase includes:

Little Scientists for ages 3 to 5 – Explore magnets, rocks, mixing colors, mixing liquids and working with the five senses

Little Mathematicians – Focus on different math skills using games, hands-on activities and real-life experiences.

Camp – get a sneak preview of exciting summer camp offerings

In addition, lifeguards will demonstrate rescues and scenarios about how to keep safe in and around the water. People can either participate or watch water aerobics demonstrations. Water aerobics improves cardiovascular conditioning and enhances body tones.

RFUMS students will provide interactive and educational activities that will emphasize the importance of incorporating healthy eating into busy schedules.

Both YMCAs will offer zero joiner's fees for people who become members during the program showcases.

For more information about the events, contact Special Events Coordinator Makayla Cansler at (847) 996-6321 or mcansler@ymcalakecounty.org.

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.