Heart of the Valley YMCA

Established in 1888, the Heart of the Valley YMCA serves people of all genders, faiths, abilities, ages, and incomes in the Appleton, Freedom, Greenville, Hortonville, Kaukauna, Kimberly, Little Chute, and Sherwood areas. “To put Christian principles into practice, through programs that promote healthy lifestyles, strong families, and positive youth development, while building spirit, mind, and body for all,” says the mission statement. The Heart of the Valley YMCA is a charitable organization that relies on contributions to promote youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Six YMCA branches help support the Fox Cities in these areas: Apple Creek YMCA (Appleton YMCA); Fox West YMCA; Heart of the Valley YMCA; Neenah-Menasha YMCA; Ogden YMCA; Valley Tennis Center. YMCA Camp Nan A Bo Sho is a 40-acre camp on Waubee Lake near Lakewood, Wisconsin. This institution provides an opportunity for kids and families to create and strengthen relationships, improve their health, and have fun. Our YMCA Swim Lesson Programs make sure that your children have the skills and confidence to stay safe. Swimming lessons at the YMCA encourage parents and caregivers to adapt to their children's learning needs. Quite a bit of time is spent playing and practicing the skills. For younger children, the parent or caregiver gets in the water and guides the child through the skills and strokes. With other children, the lessons begin with water games and familiarity with the pool. After the kids become more comfortable, they can learn the different strokes and movements in the water. This is a fun and supportive way for kids to get exercise and feel good about themselves.

The recreational center is described as family-friendly and offers excellent workout facilities, especially the pool and group classes. Other popular features are the flexible schedules, cleanliness, and a caring staff that guests consistently note are helpful and knowledgeable. The reviewers love how the establishment is a sanctuary, especially for those with special needs. Most maintain a positive experience for adults and kids and cherish the community and the fitness of a great institution. However, many wish that the facility allowed all guest passes since family guests are not members. All in all, nearly all recommend the local recreation center and plan to return.