One way the Y has responded to meet community needs during the pandemic is by launching an innovative virtual learning and child care program called Y Learning Academy.
To make the program possible, the Y needed space and looked to partners around that community that had facilities for the programs.
One organization that stepped up initially was United Methodist Church of the Resurrection. Watch this video to learn about the impact of their partnership with the Y.
The partnership was a natural fit as Church of the Resurrection's mission aligned with the Y's.
“One of their missions it to help ensure to close the educational gap, which is exactly what the Learning Academy was designed to do,” said John Mikos, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Kansas City.
Carol Cartmill, Senior Director of Mission and Outreach for United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, said the church was excited about the opportunity to partner.
“We knew from the teachers and the people in our own congregation how stressed out they were about trying to find places for their own kids," Cartmill said.
For families, the program is a win-win for kids and parents. Parent Mikah Reed said her children love the teachers and it's a great environment.
"They love it, and it helps me a lot, too," Reed said.
The program is keeping kids safe and learning during the pandemic.
"We’re grateful for the YMCA," Cartmill said. "The way that they come alongside families, particularly children, the YMCA has played such a critical role in helping continuity of education for the children."
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