CHARLOTTE, N.C. – (September 3, 2020) – In response to Governor Cooper’s announcement that gyms will be allowed to open indoor areas beginning later this week, YMCA of Greater Charlotte has released its plans for reopening indoor fitness areas. As part of the Y’s staggered reopening process, the organization will be welcoming members indoors at select facilities beginning Saturday, September 5.

The Y plans to expand programming at branches over the coming weeks, responding to member interest along the way. Some outdoor group exercise options will remain available, along with select indoor and outdoor pools. Outdoor pools at the Y are open through late September.

Branches that will be open for indoor fitness include: Brace Family, Dowd, Harris, Keith Family, Lake Norman, Lowe’s, McCrorey, Morrison and Stratford Richardson YMCAs. Hours and offerings will vary by branch.

“While our work has continued and we have been open and operational in various capacities throughout this crisis, we realize that many of our members miss our indoor health and wellness offerings most,” said Todd Tibbits, president and CEO, YMCA of Greater Charlotte. “I’m proud of the work our team has put in to ensure a safe reopening experience for both our members and our team members, and look forward to welcoming our community back through our doors.”

Since June, the Y has offered outdoor fitness, group exercise classes and indoor and outdoor pool availability at select branches. Branches have also served as Covid-19 testing sites, hosted blood drives and food distribution events, and served as a place for PPE collection and distribution.

Prior to that, many Y facilities offered free childcare for essential healthcare workers, thanks to an anonymous donor. The Y also served thousands of kids through its day camp programs and overnight camps this summer. Currently, the organization is serving more than 800 kids through School Days +, which offers a safe and supportive space for remote learning.

Since its March closure, the Y has seen a 40 percent decline in revenue due to a more than 50 percent decline in membership and program fees. As a large non-profit, YMCA of Greater Charlotte did not qualify for Paycheck Protection Program loans, and had a reduction of 12.5 percent of its full-time staff. Membership and programs make up nearly 90 percent of the Y’s revenue and the organization currently anticipates a budgeted revenue shortfall of $40 million this year.

More information on branch offerings for members including classes, hours of operation and what to expect inside and outside facilities, is available at ymcacharlotte.org. As offerings are expanded in the coming weeks, more information will be available on the website and on the Y’s social media.