BUSINESS PROFILE: Winthrop YMCA has spent more than three decades serving the community

WINTHROP — The Winthrop YMCA has been serving the community for the past 36 years, offering a variety of youth programs year round. “Winthrop is an extremely active town, and a big supporter of youth activities,” noted Lonney Steeves, director of the YMCA and Winthrop Rec department for the past 33 years.

Started in 1981, the first offerings from the YMCA were middle school basketball programs, which drew interest from 44 participants. This year, they are able to serve over 5,000 participants in more than 22 activities.

“We have a lot of interest in our seasonal activities, but summertime is really when we offer a lot of unique opportunities for kids,” he continued. “From karate to cooking, there is something that just about any kid can participate in.” This summer, the rec department will be offering more than 20 different activities for kids to choose from, ranging from the basics like basketball, football and field hockey to the exotic, with theater, strider bikes and pickle ball.

“We really pride ourselves on the variety of activities that we are able to offer,” Steeves said. The Winthrop Rec department in, conjunction with the YMCA, offers a different sports camp each week, as well as many daily programs running the entire summer. Even though some of the programs cost only $1 a day, Steeves says he often works with families to make sure kids are staying active. “It is priority number one that we are providing safe, active and engaging activities for kids during the summer.”

He also said these programs aren’t just for Winthrop youths either, as members from surrounding communities can take advantage as well. “Even though it is the ‘Winthrop Summer Rec’ program, we have kids from all over,” he said. With the population of Winthrop almost doubling during the summer months, there are many out-of-towners who take advantage. “I love this community. I have lived and worked here for 30-plus years. One of the best parts about this community is how inclusive it is. I like to think that these types of activities are a part of that.”

While registration has already started, those looking for activities are still able to sign up. For more information, go to www.winthropymca.org to check out program brochures and sign up online. The YMCA also can be reached at 207-377-9686 for any questions.