OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — Though they had some curveballs thrown at them last year, YMCA of Greater Omaha was able stay afloat during 2020. Now they are hoping the New Year's rush will put them back on track for 2021.
In 2020, like other businesses, the YMCA saw a drop in customers. From March until June, the majority of locations closed their doors to figure out how best to navigate the pandemic.
“It was a pretty significant impact to operations, and justifiably so," said John Monson, Chief Advancement Officer. "People were staying home and staying safe, but it only made sense that the numbers reflected that.”
Monson says patrons who put their membership on hold are starting to make their way back as the season for New Year's Resolutions arrives.
“What’s encouraging are the percentages that are popping back up," Monson said. "So if you look at the overall numbers, people are getting off hold, coming back in, reengaging and getting in shape.”
While the numbers are down compared to previous years, the YMCA says they’re still expecting an influx of guests in the coming weeks and are working to keep their gyms as safe as possible in the new year.
Through several grants, the YMCA has been able to add new technology to keep patrons safe. Things like thermal temperature checks and touchless faucets.
Their website has options to see what where the gyms capacity is at in real time, and you can reserve your spot in a workout class or the pool.
“I think people are going to come back, even if they’re members or new, kind of open eyes and drop some jaws about just how clean. You know, HVACs and everything we have going on, UV lights, things like that," Monson said. "So it’s pretty impressive what we’ve been able to implement in terms of keeping it a safe environment.”
To welcome new members, the Y is currently offering memberships for $1 in the month of January. https://metroymca.org/ymca-membership/join
Download our apps today for all of our latest coverage.
Get the latest news and weather delivered straight to your inbox.
