60 YEARS OF IMPACT

For 60 years, the Duneland Family YMCA has adapted to changing times while staying true to its purpose – strengthening community and transforming lives. The YMCA is a trusted, welcoming place where all can learn, grow, connect, and belong.

While programs evolve to meet the needs of children, teens, families, and adults, our mission remains the same. Thanks to the generosity of donors and volunteers, the YMCA continues to serve as an inclusive community resource, ensuring everyone has access to support and opportunity, regardless of financial circumstances.

Together, we can build a brighter future and continue our purpose and mission for years to come.

JOIN US.

WHY IT MATTERS

TOGETHER, we can create a community where every child learns to swim, every senior finds companionship, and every individual discovers the confidence to tackle life’s challenges. 

 

WHO IT HELPS

TOGETHER, we can ensure the Y continues to be a place where all belong and dreams are realized. Together, we can remove barriers and open doors for children, families, seniors, and neighbors in need, regardless of their financial situation.

 

WHAT'S YOUR WHY?

Our mission is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Strengthening community and transforming lives is our cause.

The Y is here for youth development, for healthy living, and for social responsibility. Our programs nurture potential, improve health and educate youth, both on our campus and beyond our doors. For 60 years, the Duneland Family YMCA has made a promise to our community that everyone has the opportunity to participate regardless of the ability to pay. We hope to continue that legacy for years to come.

Check out examples of lives that have been transformed by the Duneland Family YMCA while strengthening our community. We called them Duneland YCONS or Duneland Family YMCA “Y-Icons”.

WILL YOU JOIN US?

DUNELAND YCONS

Meet Mr Benjamin Osafo, who has spent years keeping his whole family active and connected at the Duneland Family YMCA. After falling in love with Chesterton and the Y, he left Chicago to raise his boys in youth programs and to help coach Y sports. He currently supports and mentors his sister-in-law, Traci—volunteering his time and regularly bringing her to train with Brian, one of our personal trainers, as she prepares for upcoming Special Olympics in basketball and swimming. Staying engaged with Traci also led Benjamin to become involved in our Silver Sneakers classes. His compassion, leadership, and commitment to others truly embodies the values of the YMCA.

DUNELAND YCONS

Meet Karissa Grubl, who is an exceptionally dedicated preschool teacher at the Forchetti Family YMCA Center for Early Learning. She consistently goes above and beyond to create a safe, nurturing, engaging, and FUN environment for the children in her care. Her patience, kindness, and genuine love for teaching are evident every day. She takes the time to understand each child’s individual needs and helps them grow socially, emotionally, and academically. Families constantly sing her praise. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a committed and compassionate educator dedicated to the children and mission of the YMCA.

2026 Annual Campaign Toolkit