From its origins as a refuge for young men to its modern-day focus on health and wellness, the YMCA has been building stronger communities across the country for generations.

Locally, the Northwest Gibson County YMCA provides essential services to meet the needs of Trenton, Dyer, Rutherford, Yorkville and beyond. In celebration of National Co-op Month in October and Gibson Electric Membership Corporation’s annual member appreciation events, the YMCA is receiving one of 10 matching TVA Community Care grants from Gibson Electric.

Brooke Carrell, who recently marked her one-year anniversary as branch executive director, said the YMCA would use the funds for its suite of kids’ programs, which includes water safety, swim lessons and YPlay sports.

“Our kids’ programs are close to my heart,” Carrell said.

Over the summer, YMCA swim instructors taught water safety and swim lessons to more than 200 local children. The Y also fielded a competitive swim team and sent its lifeguards to the Lifeguard Olympics, where they placed fifth out of 12 YMCAs and received the highest ranking – Superior – in the multi-rescue scenario. YPlay sports like indoor soccer, volleyball and flag football are growing, and youngsters are learning healthy habits early in fun fitness classes.

While kids hold a special place in Carrell’s heart, she is equally committed to providing “something for everybody” at the Y. The Active Older Adults (AOA) program promote health and fitness, strengthening social bonds and teaching new skills. In September, the Y started a four-week technology course to help older adults learn how to use the internet, send text messages and set up email accounts. Those classes will eventually be opened to the public.

Although the Northwest Gibson County YMCA has an up-to-date fitness room, group exercise classes and a virtual fitness studio, its mission reaches well past treadmills and free weights.

“We’re a community, and we’re a family,” Carrell said.