A message from the Mercer County Family YMCA:
At this time your Mercer County Family YMCA will remain open for our members and community, however, we will need to suspend some program activities. Please read the entire document for the most up to date information.
We deeply appreciate your understanding as we navigate the challenging circumstances related to COVID-19. This is a difficult time for our Mercer County community. Please know we are following the guidance of the Department of Public Health, Centers for Disease Control, Illinois State Alliance of YMCAs and area school systems. At the Y, everything we do is guided by our mission of strengthening communities, and we have an obligation to do what we can to limit the spread of Coronavirus. The well-being of our members, families, staff and participants remains our top priority.
The CDC has recommended social distancing and avoiding large groups as an important line of defense in slowing the spread of COVID-19. We invite you to carefully consider your social interactions, which includes participation in group activities and visits to the YMCA. Yet, we know the YMCA is a daily part of many of your lives, and with the necessary precautions and collective vigilance, our intent is to continue to provide important services. We also know you will act to protect yourself and our communities, and we trust you to use your best judgment.
We are implementing proactive measures at all Y facilities to limit exposure and maintain a safe environment. At this time, our Mercer County Family YMCA facility and the YMCA Children’s School will remain open. HOWEVER, some programs and services will be limited and/or suspended as follows from Tuesday, March 17, 2020 through Monday, March 30, 2020.
Child Care This program will remain open to those enrolled. A reminder to follow our health policy.
Before and After School Programs and School Out Day Programs In adherence with the closings of local school districts, the Y will not offer After School Programs and will offer our School Out Day Program at the Children’s School as usual.
Youth Programs All youth programs will be suspended through Monday March 30, 2020. At that time, we will reassess the current environment to determine next steps. This includes, but is not limited to, all youth sports (Track & Field).
If, in the coming weeks, it is determined the remainder of the program session or sports season needs to be cancelled, we assure you we will work with families to provide credits for paid programs.
Swim Lessons Youth swim lessons are suspended, effective Tuesday, March 17 through Monday, March 30, 2020. At that time, we will reassess the current environment to determine next steps.
Child Watch Child Watch will not be offered effective Tuesday, March 17 through Monday March 30, 2020.
Group Exercise Classes Group Exercise classes including all land and water fitness classes will be suspended through Monday March 30, 2020
We ask that all members and staff continue to follow the guidelines set forth by federal, state and local agencies related to this virus. If you are at a higher risk (age, compromised health, etc.) for serious illness from COVID-19, it is important for you to take actions to reduce your risk of exposure.
Additional everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases like coronavirus, include:
· Avoid close contact with people who are sick. · Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. · Stay home when you are sick until you’ve been free of fever for 24 hours. · Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. · Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Hand washing remains the most effective method of preventing the spread of germs, including coronavirus. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
As the environment continues to evolve, Y hours of service and programs may be adjusted. For additional information, please contact the Mercer County YMCA at 309-582-5101.
In the coming days, we will be working hard to provide you with additional resources to support your opportunity to remain active. Please be sure to follow us on Facebook for further details.
Thank you for helping our communities stay safe and healthy. Together, we will get through this crisis.
Sincerely,
Sarah Brown, CEO