For over 75 years, the Moody Family Ymca In The Park Cities has been a cornerstone of the community, dedicated to embodying Christian values through programs that nurture a healthy spirit, mind, and body. This enduring mission faced unprecedented challenges in recent times, highlighting the organization’s resilience and deep connection with the Park Cities community.
Navigating the Pandemic: Challenges and Community Support
The global pandemic presented unforeseen obstacles for the Moody Family YMCA in the Park Cities. Shortly after a change in board leadership in March 2020, the facility was compelled to shut down due to COVID-19. This abrupt closure led to the temporary furlough of 15 full-time and over 100 part-time employees. Nick Echtenkamp stepped in as executive director, tasked with navigating a crisis of unparalleled scale.
Through diligent work with the YMCA Board of Directors, the Moody Family YMCA in the Park Cities successfully reopened its doors by June 1st. Crucially, the YMCA managed to sustain the vital community services it provided, adapting to the evolving needs of Park Cities residents. During the pandemic, the YMCA network became essential hubs for basic needs, transforming into food distribution centers, pop-up health clinics, and support systems for senior citizens.
Across the 20 Dallas-area YMCAs, the collective impact was significant: over 217,000 pounds of fresh produce and 75,000 individual meals were distributed. Furthermore, 11,000 families received essential household supplies, 7,300 childcare visits were provided, and an impressive 39,000 diapers were distributed to families in need.
Children engaging in learning activities at Moody Family YMCA in Park Cities childcare program, supporting essential workers' families.
Key Programs and Community Initiatives
Childcare services at the Moody Family YMCA in the Park Cities proved to be particularly critical for families working in essential sectors. Beyond hosting the Rise School of Dallas, the Moody Y was one of seven locations that implemented a Learning Academy model. This innovative program hired educators to provide on-site support for children and youth engaged in virtual learning, aligning with local school district guidelines. The Learning Academy reached full capacity each week, serving as the sole option for distance learning assistance in the Park Cities area.
Throughout the pandemic, the Moody Family YMCA in the Park Cities remained committed to offering a range of crucial programs. These included adaptive preschool programs, vital drowning prevention initiatives, youth sports scholarships, and enriching educational programs for adults and families. Demonstrating its unwavering commitment to the community, the Moody Family YMCA also served as a warming center during recent severe snowstorms, providing warm showers, safe drinking water, and device charging stations for those without power or shelter.
Community Gratitude and Future Outlook
Despite the numerous challenges faced, the Moody Family YMCA in the Park Cities served over 132,000 individuals in the past year, with 4,500 children participating in youth sports programs. This remarkable impact is a testament to the strong community support the YMCA receives. Park Cities residents demonstrated their commitment by returning to classes and programs and adapting alongside the YMCA.
In 2020, the Park Cities community generously donated over $625,000 to support Moody Family YMCA in the Park Cities programs. This outpouring of support continued into 2021, with over $575,000 raised thus far. The YMCA leadership expressed deep gratitude for this support, pledging to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all members, fostering community solidarity.
Looking to the future, the Moody Family YMCA in the Park Cities leadership team is committed to listening to the community and innovating to expand its reach. Plans are underway to introduce more community events and innovative program delivery methods, such as outdoor classes, to further integrate the YMCA into the Park Cities landscape. The YMCA aims to ensure every member feels secure and comfortable while participating in its offerings.
Exterior view of Moody Family YMCA in Park Cities, a community hub celebrating 75 years of service and looking towards future growth.
The Moody Family YMCA in the Park Cities extends heartfelt thanks to the community for its ongoing support and eagerly anticipates growing and evolving alongside Park Cities for the next 75 years and beyond.
