STRONG COMMUNITIES
SPRING 1 Session Programs
Spring 1: March 9-April 19
Registration Begins:
Facility Members: Saturday, February 7
Open Registration: Saturday, February 21
FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Youth Wellness
CREATIVE MOVEMENT & DANCE
Ages 7-12
SP1 $65/$130
Mon. 6-6:45 p.m.
FAST TWITCH FITNESS
Ages 9-14
SP1 $65/$130
Mon. 5-5:45 p.m.
JUNIOR STRENGTH TRAINING
Ages 9-14
SP1 $65/$130 Tue. 5-5:45 p.m.
Modified class schedule the week of March 23 (Spring Break)
HOW TO REGISTER FOR PROGRAMS
LET’S CELEBRATE
Host your child’s next birthday party at the Y!
Pool Party: $350/$500
Gym Party: $350/$500
To learn more, please contact Tracy Wrase at (815) 782-0808 or via email at twrase@jolietymca.org
KIDS
CORNER
Ages 6 months-7 years
Healthy parents are happy parents. Let your child have fun at the Y while you take time for yourself to get fit. There is no need to call ahead. Parents must remain in the facility while their children are in the playroom.
Monday - Thursday 5-7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free for Facility Family Members
• Online by visiting www.jolietymca.org
• In person by visiting the Y
• By phone by calling (815) 744-3939
THERE IS A Y IN EVERY FAMILY FAMILY EVENTS
Open to all ages
Pre-registration is required, but the event is free and open to the community - so bring a friend along!
ST. PADDY’S DIVIN’ FOR GOLD
ALL AGES FRIDAY, MARCH 13 FREE
Members are invited to dive in anytime between 5 a.m.-7 p.m. to collect “Leprechaun Gold” tokens from the depths of the pool. The tokens can then be exchanged for prizes.
Registration is required for families attending between 4-7 p.m. Please review the pool rules prior to participating.
CLOVER HUNT
AGES 3-10 FRIDAY, MARCH 13 5:30-6 P.M. FREE
Grab your flashlight and a bag! The silly leprechaun has left behind clovers to find! Who knows, you may find that special clover with gold on it. There will be two groups: ages 3-6 and 6-10. The first group will begin their hunt sharply at 5:30 p.m., with the second group beginning at 5:45 p.m.
JUNIOR WOLVES SPRING SPORTS PROGRAMS
Offered in partnership with Joliet Junior College (JJC) | April 27-July 18
NFL FLAG FOOTBALL LEAGUE
Coed Divisions
Ages 4-6
Ages 7-9
Ages 10-12
Ages 13-14
Girls Divisions
Ages 10-12
Ages 13-14
Participants should register for age group based on age as of May 1, 2026.
Fees:
Before February 24
$90 for Facility Members
$140 for Community Members
February 24-March 30
$100 for Facility Members
$150 for Community Members
After March 30
$110 for Facility Members
$160 for Community Members
Practices:
Practices will be held once per week on weeknights beginning the week of May 4 at the JJC Event Center. The Y will also host preseason clinics the week of April 27.
Games:
Eight game season. Games begin the week of May 25 and will be played at the JJC Event Center on Friday evenings, Saturday mornings, and occasional weeknights.
PLEASE NOTE: The 10-12 and 13-14 year old NFL FLAG Football divisions will also play games against C.W. Avery Family YMCA and Morris Hospital YMCA teams at locations in Plainfield and Morris.
If you have any questions, please contact: Zach Jarosz, Director of Sports Email: zjarosz@jolietymca.org Phone: (815) 782-0813
Junior Wolves Dance Team
Led by experienced dance staff, this enthusiastic program will teach aspiring dancers of all skill levels a mix of turns, jumps, and dance routines.
Coed Groups
Ages 5-9
Ages 10-14
Fees:
$65 for Facility Members/$98 for Community Members
Practices and Games:
Practices will be held once per week at the JJC Event Center, beginning the week of May 4. The team will perform weekly during NFL FLAG Football League games beginning the week of May 25.
Co-ed league open to Grades 3-8
Dates: June 15-July 31
Practices begin the week of June 15
Games begin the week of June 22
All games and practices will be held at Joliet Junior College on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Five-game season. No playoffs. No games/practices the week of June 29-July 3
All participants will receive a Jr. NBA/WNBA jersey. This league promotes fundamental development and is open to all skill-levels and abilities.
WHERE KIDS THRIVE
Kid Zone
Before and After School Youth Enrichment Program
In the YMCA’s Before and After School program, kids participate in physical, learning, and imaginative activities that encourage them to explore who they are and what they can achieve. Kids have fun, make new friends, and create memories that last a lifetime.
Serving Joliet/Rockdale/Troy School Districts
PROGRAM HOURS:
Monday-Friday, on school days Before School: 7 a.m.-Start of School
After School: Dismissal -6 p.m.
No PM care available on Early Dismissal Days.
Kid Zone registration for the 2026-2027 school year begins on April 11 for Facility Members and on April 18 for Community Members.
To learn more about Kid Zone, please contact Before & After Care Director
Tori Dutkiewicz at (815) 782-0827 or tdutkiewicz@jolietymca.org
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
DAYS OUT OF SCHOOL
2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR
Facility Members: $48
Community Members: $63
To learn more, please contact Before & After Care Director Tori Dutkiewicz at (815) 782-0827 or tdutkiewicz@jolietymca.org
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
Please see next page for income-based pricing and financial assistance information.
Apply for Financial Assistance and pay as little as $1 per month for Kid Zone.
At the Y, no one is turned away due to the inability to pay. DHS funds are accepted. Financial assistance may also be available for those who do not qualify for DHS funds.
SUMMER DAY CAMP
Kids love us — and their parents do too!
At the Y, we provide safe, affordable, and fun camps for youth in grades K-8. YMCA Summer Camps offer kids a chance to have fun while building a healthy spirit, mind, and body. Kids have the opportunity to explore nature, find new talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting friendships.
With summer camp locations throughout Will and Grundy Counties, the Y is your family’s source for fun this summer! For camp locations, pricing, and field trip schedules, please contact the Y today!
DAY CAMP LOCATIONS:
Messiah Lutheran Church
Salvation Army Community Center Village of Shorewood YMCA
WHERE EVERYONE IS WELCOME
DHS funds are accepted. Financial assistance is also available.
REGISTER BY MARCH 30 AND SAVE $50!
Registration opens for Facility Members on March 14. Registration opens for Community Members on March 21.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
SUMMER’S COOLER AT THE YMCA Teen REACH Camp
This summer, the Y will be offering a FREE summer day camp program for students in grades 6-8. At Teen REACH Camp, students will learn to respect themselves and others, work out their differences, and discover the value of true friendship. Campers will also enjoy up to 10 weeks of summer fun full of swimming, sports, outdoor exploration, field trips, and more.
To learn more about YMCA Teen REACH Summer Camp, please contact: Darrell Collins, Teen REACH & Teen Achievers Director Phone: (815) 782-0828
Email: dcollins@jolietymca.org
Generously sponsored by:
SUMMER SPORTS CAMPS
In addition to summer day camp, the YMCA offers a wide variety of sports and specialty camps each summer. Each Y is unique and diverse, just like your child, so programs will vary by location.
To learn more about Summer Sports Camp, please contact: Zach Jarosz, Director of Sports Phone: (815) 782-0813
Email: zjarosz@jolietymca.org
ALWAYS HERE FOR OUR COMMUNITY
Child Care Financial Assistance
At the Y, we believe that no one should be denied access to YMCA child care programs based on their inability to pay. Ensuring access for all, Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) funds are accepted and financial assistance is also available.
APPLY FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TODAY
1. Check your eligibility for IDHS assistance by viewing the tables below:
2.
To be eligible,
If your family size is larger than five, you can check your eligibility for assistance through IDHS by visiting: www.dhs.state.il.us/applications/childcareeligcalc/eligcalc.html
3. Families that qualify for assistance through IDHS will be directed to visit www.childcarehelp.com to download a Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) application. Please bring your completed application to the YMCA to have it signed before submitting it your local Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) Agency.
Completed applications may be submitted via email at assistance@childcarehelp.com, by mail, or in person: Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) Administrative Office 801 North Larkin Avenue, Suite 202 Joliet, Illinois 60435
Applications can be left in the blue drop box located outside of the CCR&R building.
4. Upon being approved for assistance, you will receive an approval letter from IDHS. Please bring that letter to the Y when registering your children for a YMCA child care program.
https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=10568
Please note: If your family is not approved for funding through IDHS, assistance may be available through the YMCA’s financial assistance fund. To learn more, please contact the Child Care Director at your local YMCA branch. Families will be required to submit a copy of their IDHS denial letter when applying for assistance through the YMCA.
EMPOWERING TOMORROW’S INNOVATORS
Chillaxin’ at the Y
Chill out and relax at the Innovation Center.
Tuesday - Thursday 5-7:30 p.m.
Kids, ages 7 and up, are invited to check out our Innovation Center, which features a healthy eating kitchen, 3D printers, a sewing machine, and additional Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) equipment.
WORKSHOP
Ages 8-14 $20/$40
6:15-7:15 p.m.
STRING ART MARCH 18
Come join this workshop to create your very own string art to take home! We will demonstrate and then let your imagination run wild.
BELIEVE IN YOUR POTENTIAL TEEN ACHIEVERS
One of the Y’s most beloved programs, Teen Achievers provides area high school students with the guidance and support they need to discover their identities, embrace their passions, and become their best selves.
TEEN ACHIEVERS WORKSHOP
EXPLORING CAREER OPPORTUNITIES IN HEALTH SCIENCES
Ages 14-19
Free Thursday, March 12 6-7:30 p.m.
Workshop Location: Joliet Junior College - Room U-1024
In addition to listening to engaging guest speakers, participants will have the opportunity to meet with a variety of healthcare professionals and academic providers. Attendees will also learn more about scholarship opportunities, tuition reimbursement programs, and educational pathways for careers in the healthcare industry. Refreshments will be served. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
2026 COLLEGE TOUR
Ages 14-21
a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: $30
The college tour will depart from Joliet Junior College, located at 1215 Houbolt Road in Joliet. Departure from JJC may be as early as 7 a.m. and arrival back to JJC will be no later than 6 p.m. Finalized trip itineraries will be communicated the week prior to the tour. Transportation, lunch and t-shirt will be provided.
Tuesday, March 31
Western Illinois University - Macomb
AMAZING LEARNING EXPERIENCES
Teen REACH
After School Youth Enrichment Program
Teen REACH (Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring, and Hope) is a FREE after school program offered in partnership with Joliet Public School District 86. Hosted at the district’s four junior high schools, Teen REACH programming incorporates the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, and includes a resource-rich curriculum that provides students with academic support, life skills education, recreational opportunities, mentorship, STEM, and service learning activities.
Program Hours
Monday through Friday, on school days, from dismissal until 6 p.m. Program will not run on early dismissal days. See Days Out Of School page for more information
SWIM LESSON SCHEDULE
Session Session Dates Weeks Early Bird Deadline Spring 1 March 9-April 19 5 Monday, March 2
Swim Stages Early Bird Price Price After Deadline
Parent-Child, Pre-School, Youth, Teen/Adult
Pre-Conditioning
SP1 $59/$118
SP1 $66/$125
SP1 $83/$166 SP1 $90/$173
Conditioning SP1 $83/$166 SP1 $90/$173
TO REGISTER, CLICK HERE
The Galowich Family YMCA reserves the right to adjust swim lesson schedules based on enrollment.
Aquatics
HOMESCHOOL SWIM
Red/Beginner Swimmers
Ages 4-14 SP1 $58/$116 Thu. 11-12 p.m.
Yellow/Intermediate Swimmers
Ages 4-14 SP1 $58/$116 Thu. 11-12 p.m.
Blue/Advance Swimmers
Ages 4-14 SP1 $58/$116 Thu. 10:30-11:30 a.m.
STAGE 7 SESSION DATES & FEES
Session Session Dates Weeks Early Bird Deadline Spring 1 March 9-April 19 5 Monday, March 2 Pre-Conditioning Conditioning
Monday 6-7 p.m.
Tuesday 5:25-6:25 p.m. TO REGISTER, CLICK
PRIVATE SWIM LESSONS
One-on-one lessons with our expert instructors are available. Instructors can be requested, however, availability may vary.
30 minutes each As arranged 4 lesson package $130/$260
SEMI-PRIVATE SWIM LESSONS
Two or more students of the same swimming ability may request semi-private lessons with our expert instructors. Instructors may be requested, however availability may vary.
30 minutes each As arranged 4 lesson package $80/$140
ADAPTIVE SWIM LESSONS
Our adaptive swim lesson program is designed for children with special needs. The goal of this program is to provide basic water instruction and water safety skills in a therapeutic manner with the needs of each individual participant in mind.
30 minutes each As arranged 4 lesson package $85/$170
Private, Semi-Private and Adaptive Swim lessons may be requested online. Participants will be called from the list as instructors have lesson availability.
Questions can be directed to: Aquatics Director Catie Wallis at (815) 782-0806 or via email at cwallis@jolietymca.org
STAY IN THE KNOW ON THE GO Download the YMCA On the Go App today!
All YMCA Facility Members, ages 16 and up, receive free Basic Access included with their membership.
Greater Joliet Area YMCA Facility Members, ages 16 and up, are invited to enroll in the My Y Rewards Program. Designed to support you along your health and wellness journey, you’ll earn points each time you check-in, take a class, or refer a friend to the Y. You can then redeem your points for fun Y swag and program and membership credits. And, the best part, it’s FREE!
The JETS swim clinic is a great opportunity to spend time with the JETS coaches learning new skills and getting an idea of what the team is like. Throughout the clinic, coaches also evaluate swimmers to determine if they meet criteria to be placed on the team. If swimmers do not meet the criteria to join, the YMCA offers swim lesson programs to develop skills.
To participate in the clinic, swimmers must be able to safely swim 25 yards, comfortable with their face in the water. Spots for the team are limited. Clinic registration at a site does not guarantee practice site for the upcoming season.
REGISTRATION OPENS Cost: $25 Facility Members on February 7 Community Members on February 21
Ages
To learn more about the JETS Swim Team, please contact: Dave Hedden, Director of Competitive Aquatics (815) 267-8600 | dhedden@jolietymca.org www.jetsyswimteam.org
FOR HEALTHY LIVING
WELLNESS CENTER CERTIFICATIONS
This course is required for teens aged 13 to 15 who wish to access our wellness centers. It is designed to provide a comprehensive and informative session so teens can properly utilize strength and cardiovascular equipment. The fee is $20, and parents are needed for the paperwork.
PERSONAL TRAINING
One on One Personal Training Packages | Ages 16 and up
FIT4U
Free for Facility Members!
1
Group Of Two Personal Training Packages | Ages 16 and up | Prices are per person.
1
Larger Personal Training packages and flexible payment plans available on packages of 12 or more. To learn more about Wellness programs, please contact: Health and Wellness Director Alissa Koenig at (815) 744-3939, ext. 335 or via email at akoenig@jolietymca.org
LAZYMAN TRIATHLON
Mar 9- Apr 19, $5
The LAZYMAN IRONMAN is a triathlon challenge created just for Y members! Participants will have the opportunity to complete a full IRONMAN by swimming, biking and running their way to the finish line at their own pace and in their own time to complete the 140.6-mile race in six weeks. You’ll track your mileage on a personal mileage tracking sheet.
INSPIRING GENEROSITY
Stop by the Membership Desk and pick up a 2026 Mission Strong t-shirt by making a donation of $25 or more to the YMCA Mission Strong Fund. Your donation will help to ensure that no one is turned away from the Y due to the inability to pay.
If you are looking to start a new fitness routine and don’t know where to start, or if you have taken a break from exercise and want to get back on track, this FREE program is for you! The Y’s Fit4U program offers guidance, knowledge, and motivation to help you lead a healthier lifestyle and become more physically active. This comprehensive 4-week introductory program will introduce you to the Wellness Center amenities, help you set goals, and design a workout program that works best for you. Each appointment will introduce you to a new element of fitness under the guidance of a Wellness Attendant.
PART 1: GETTING STARTED AND BASELINE TESTS
During this opening session, we will assess your current fitness level, set goals, get body composition (if requested), and complete our Fit4U questionnaire. You will have the opportunity to get set up on the YMCA on the Go App and begin orientation on any cardiovascular equipment (treadmills, ellipticals and bikes) that interests you.
PART 2: CARDIO REVIEW AND UPPER BODY STRENGTH
This session will reinforce the basics of using cardio equipment and add instruction of upper body strength equipment based on your fitness goals.
PART 3: LOWER BODY STRENGTH TRAINING
The third session will introduce lower body strength equipment based on your fitness goals and review progress on your new fitness schedule.
PART 4: PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER
In this closing session, we will review and answer any additional questions related to cardio or strength equipment, workout progressions, and Personal Training options.
Members who complete all 4 sessions will be entered into a raffle for a free personal training session.