John R. Grubb Community YMCA

Free Lectures for a Healthier You

2012-01-13T13:44:00.000-06:00

My name is Brandan Lym, I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy student from Des Moines University. For the next week I have the great opportunity to present a series of lectures here at the YMCA. In the first week’s lectures my goal was to increase awareness about Obesity, Diabetes, and Heart Disease trends across America. In the following week our goal is to understand the recommendations given for exercise and nutrition to help reverse these trends. Please come join us and learn more about what you can do to be a healthier you.

Up Coming Lectures:

Tuesday Jan. 17th 10:30am Fitness Studio

Wednesday Jan 18th 6:40pm Fitness Studio

Donate old Y Wear to Haiti

2012-01-11T16:35:00.000-06:00

Stop into the Grubb Y and drop off your gently used old staff and/or any other old Y logo image gear that you no longer want. We will be collecting these items in our facility during the next month. These shirts will be donated to the Y in Haiti so that they can begin to build their membership apparel as they begin the transformation among their staff as well.

Numbers and Your Health: 2 Part Lecture Series

2012-01-06T18:13:00.000-06:00

BRANDAN LYM – FUTURE D.O.

Presenting Brandan Lym , an Osteopathic student from Des Moines University, who host a lecture on general trends and numbers across America. What do these numbers mean to us and why are they important? Coronary Heart Disease, Diabetes, and Obesity is on the rise. Learn about what your numbers mean and what nutrition can do to help. All lectures are 60 minutes except Thurs. Jan 12th .

When:

Monday Jan 9th 5:30 PM Riverfront YMCA Fitness Studio

Tuesday Jan 10th 10:30AM Grubb YMCA Fitness Studio

Wednesday Jan 11th 10:15 AM Riverfront cafe

Wednesday Jan 11th 6:40 PM Grubb YMCA Fitness Studio

Thursday Jan 12th 11:40 AM (25 minute presentation) Riverfront cafe

This is a 2 part lecture series. The second half the the lectures will take place at the exact same time and locations the week of Jan.16th.
This is a Free Event

Christmas for After School Program

2012-01-04T18:01:00.000-06:00

On Wednesday, December 21^st, the John R. Grubb YMCA Before and After School Program participants enjoyed an exciting Christmas celebration. They played games, ate snacks, and each child was able to open a gift! The gifts were collected by the Ankeny YMCA’s Southeast Elementary Before and After School participants and families. The John R. Grubb YMCA children and staff want to extend a special thank you to all the Ankeny children and families who participated in making their Christmas special!

Donate your old Y wear to Haiti

2011-12-08T18:34:00.002-06:00

As we step into the new, with our new Y image, lets all join in and lend a helping hand to help the staff in Haiti increase their staff image as well!

Bring in your gently used old Y image gear with the old Y logo that you no longer want.

We will be donating these items to Haiti to help them support their image transformation among their staff as well!

Thank You for your Support!

Giving Thanks

2011-11-29T18:36:00.000-06:00

Staff and Members of the Grubb gave thanks this season in many ways. The front lobby was full of turkey pictures stating what kids were thankful for.

A Thanksgiving Day lunch was also put on for staff and members. Everyone got their turkey filling

with plenty of sides and dessert.

A very special Thanks goes out to Rick and Mona who helped host this special lunch!

"Share the Mic" gives to the Grubb Y

2011-11-07T13:19:00.000-06:00

Students from Harding Middle School presented
the Grubb Y with proceeds raised during their event.

On Friday, October 28, 2011, the students of Warren G. Harding Middle School hosted "Share the Mic: Community Voices Creating Change," performing self-written, spoken word poetry at the Fort Des Moines Museum. All proceeds raised at the event were donated to the Grubb Community YMCA, an organization providing support and programming for many of Harding’s student. This is the second event in one year where students were asked to use their voices to create positive change in their community and they aren’t stopping there. Students will hold two more "Share the Mic" events throughout the 2011-2012 school year, partnering with other local non-profit organizations that serve the community of Des Moines.

Fall Fun!

2011-10-25T13:39:00.000-05:00

Come out this Thursday Night for a safe fun night of Fall festivities!

Play games, win prizes, make crafts!

Dress up in a costume and be a part of our costume contest at 7pm.

There will be food and drinks available as well. So dont miss out!

This is a free event for the whole community!

Get Socially Connected

2011-10-20T10:43:00.000-05:00

You can now follow the YMCA on Facebook and Twitter! Just go to our main website at http://www.dmymca.org/ and find the stay connected icon to follow us! It's that easy to stay connected with the YMCA and get the most up to date actitivites!

Teen Drop In Center Now Open!

2011-10-05T16:17:00.000-05:00

Drop-in for some fun, music and games and open gym after school to release some steam and relax at the John R. Grubb YMCA free of charge. Earn a free membership to the YMCA if you come consistently, build a positive relationship with the staff members, and exemplify a quality set of YMCA values including: CARING, HONESTY, RESPECT, & RESPONSIBILITY, get involved in a variety of our extracurricular YMCA opportunities for you & your family and bring in your report card with successful and hard working grades.

Ages
Teens - 6th grade & up

When
Monday, Tuesday & Thursday 3-6pm
Wednesday 1-6pm

Additional Information
The John R Grubb YMCA Teen Center and gymnasium are 2 free spaces that are for the use of our community teens from 3-6 Mon, Tues, Thurs. and on Wed early outs from 1-6pm. teens may also feel free to use our swimming pool during open hours at 3pm. However, teens will not be allowed to roam and loiter the John R Grubb YMCA facility. They will be asked to leave the fitness room, cardio area, childwatch area, weight area, hallways etc. and relocate to the Teen Center and/or gym as these 2 spaces have been designated for the teens during this time. ALL teens must sign in the Teen Drop-In Book upon entering the facility daily. teens may check out basketballs, soccer balls, and all other equipment at the front desk with a student ID card. Once a teen decides to leave the facility/program, he/she has mad the choice to leave and will no longer be allowed back in the facility. Please understand this is our only way to manage the flow of traffic of our daily members/facility and show respect to our facility and guests. Teens may only stay in the John R. Grubb YMCA after 6pm if they aer an active YMCA member and come down to the YMCA Service Center at that time (6pm) and scan their active membership card in order to stay in the facility. We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to hosting many teens throughout the year in our Teen Center. Thank You!

New Concession Stand helps Sports Fundraising

2011-09-22T14:21:00.001-05:00

We would like to thank Sam's Club and SNICKERS for helping the fundraising efforts of the Grubb YMCA. Both companies helped to construct and donate a "SuperFan" Concession Stand. Volunteers from our local Sam's Club helped to build the stand. Sam's Club will also stock our concession stand with a first round of supplies. The SuperFan outreach program was created to help non-profit youth sports efforts. The John R Grubb YMCA is one of 25 organizations selected to participate! We feel extremely lucky to be able to add this onto our sports complex. So next time you come to a flag football, soccer or baseball game stop by the concession stand for a treat and support our fundraising efforts at the Grubb!

Our first Flag Football Games of the Season start this Saturday September 22nd! Come out and support the teams!

Flag Football

2011-08-29T13:33:00.000-05:00

Develop skills, sportsmanship & build positive relationships starting as young as age 3 all the way up to 6th grade at the YMCA. Never miss a change to make a kid smile, make a parent laugh, build a fundamental skill and teach a value while at the John R. Grubb YMCA while playing flag football and scoring some touch downs! Are you ready for some football?!?!

Registration Deadline : Sept 9th

Pre-K Clinic (3 years - Kindergarten)
Youth League ( 1st - 6th Grade)

Go to Youth Sports page for more info

Tell your friends!

2011-08-10T09:33:00.003-05:00

It's Good to Be Friends!

2011-08-01T09:14:00.000-05:00

Because you are a valued friend of the YMCA, we are offering you a limited-time exclusive offer to share with your friends!

This is your YMCA, where you work out, meet friends, grow stronger, become healthier, and enhance your quality of life.
Go ahead and tell your friends!

Join by August 15,2011 and they'll save $50!
Just because you are a friend of the YMCA, they pay no joiner fee!
(Exclusive Offer Code: FRIEND)

Get your jump on!

2011-07-28T13:01:00.000-05:00

Join us for this 2 day Double Dutch jump roping camp. Learn how to single jump and double dutch with a team. Creative and rhythmical jumping. Learn a new routine and get energized! All levels are welcome and encourages to come jump the morning away! Mid morning snack will be provided. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and tennis shoes.

Ages: 7 - 17 years old

When:
Wednesday Aug 3rd & Thursday Aug 4th
9am-12pm

Members/Non-Members: $6 Register by Mon Aug 1st

Make Dance your Journey

2011-07-12T17:52:00.001-05:00

Teaching Zumba to Y Teens at Merrill Middle School

Hi, I'm Kat and I teach Zumba! I became a certified Zumba instructor in August of 2010 and joined the YMCA staff in September 2010. I started taking Zumba classes in March and immediately fell in love with the music and the moves. I enjoyed it so much that I decided to become a certified instructor. By day I work for a financial service company as an assistance manager in our training area and by night, I'm cutting lose on the dance floor, at an area fitness center or the local community center!

I love teaching Zumba and I enjoy teaching classes at the YMCA. Teaching Zumba at the YMCA is one way I'm giving back to the community. Ive been on my get fit journey since April of 2009 and I've lost an enormous amount of weight, walking, dancing and by changing my eating habits. Dancing is what I love to do and God has given me a gift to share with others. I couldn't think of a better place to share my talents then at the YMCA. The people are friendly, exciting and just like me...on a journey. The Y is a wonderful community to connect with and I feel like they are my extended family. We laugh, sweat and get fit together! It's a blast and its home away from home!

Zumba love to all the YMCA staff and the communities it serves!

My Biking Challenge

2011-07-05T11:04:00.000-05:00

I grew up biking every single weekend. The whole family would go out on the trails all over the Des Moines area.
Well its been a couple years since I've even owned a bike.
With Bike Camp going all last week, I just had to join in on this experience.
My brother gave me a bike of his and I was ready!
The challenge: Make it from the Grubb to the Blank Park Zoo and back.
Of course it was the hottest day of the week, but I had sunblock, two water bottles and my helmet in tow for this adventure. Here's how the day went:

Activities at the Forest Ave Library

Riding the bus from Downtown to Blank Park Zoo

Learning to load and unload bikes on Dart Buses.

Sunni and I at the Zoo.

Feeding the animals at the Zoo.

After a fun time at the zoo it was time to head back.
With a heat index of over 100 degrees and hills lining the south side, I'm still not sure how everyone else made it!
By the time we hit Grays Lake, I was pretty much done for.
A combination of the heat and recent lack of experience was all too much for me.
A HUGE props to the rest of the Bike Camp participants. They pushed through the day in the heat and totally showed me up. Either way I'm still very proud of myself for sticking it out until I could go no further. I had so much fun riding around and it took me back to all those long Saturdays spent biking from morning to night. Now that I officially have my own bike, you can catch me riding around town a lot more!

Carolina Canas
Financial Assistance Speicalist
John R.Grubb YMCA

Bike Camp Safety Basics

2011-06-29T16:34:00.000-05:00

Bike Camp officially kicked off this week.
There is a total of 11 riders, including 3 adults, learning bike and road safety.
Each biker had their bike checked earlier in the week to ensure road readiness.
Here's a couple pictures showing the bikers getting ready to head out in the morning.

Be sure your air cap is clean and without dirt.

Just like a car, your bike wheels need sufficient air when riding.

Always remember your helmet, full water bottle and some sunblock!

Y Day at Evelyn Davis Park

2011-06-27T16:50:00.000-05:00

We hosted Y Day in the Park at Evelyn Davis Park. Children from all over the area came out! This is a great time for all kids to come out and join in some fun outdoor activities. We had face painting, kite flying, egg toss and much more.


Flying Kites in the Park!

There was quite a line for the Bouncy House!

Character Kids, encouraging Youth to excel to their greatest potential!

Some Y Campers

Just a couple of Our Amazing Y Day Camp Staff Members

Listening to Character Kids.

Join us again this Thursday Evening June 30 from 4-8pm. All ages welcome!

Join the Ride of Your Life

2011-06-20T13:13:00.002-05:00

Yes! It is the return of Bike Camp! We are excited to have our special guest Kittie Weston-Knauer & Carl Voss helping out this year once again with Bike Camp, as well as our sponsors the Northwest Rotary Club and Des Moines Bicycle Collective. This camp features fantastic components such as road rules, bike safety & maintenance, how to read maps, even how to load bikes on & off public transportation. However, this camp is not complete without fun in the better not sun, swimming, positive role modeling & relationship building. What a great experience, you better not miss out!

Ages: 11-14 years old

When: June27th - July 1st

Registration deadline June 22nd or until full-max participants of 15

Fee for members and non members :$15

There is a Mandatory Bike Check night Wednesday June 22nd 6pm

You must bring your Bike to Bike Check Night in order to attend Bike Camp or You May Not ride your Bike during Bike Camp week, this is to assure your Bike is Road Ready and Safe, please arrange your schedules accordingly.

Contact

Sunni Zack

Senior Program Director

515-868-0527 or sunni.zak@dmymca.org

Free Summer Lunch Program

2011-06-14T16:34:00.000-05:00

We are excited to be a part of 19 sites providing free lunch for all children 18 years old and younger.
Through the sponsorship of the Des Moines Public Schools, we are able to offer a nutritious balanced meal for children in the community. So if you know any children under 18 years old, send them here to the Grubb for a free lunch!

This program will run through July 19th.
Monday-Friday 11:15am-12:15pm

Be Supportive, Donate, Care

2011-06-08T15:51:00.000-05:00

Join us in helping put together care packages for tenants moving into the YMCA Supportive Housing Campus.
Each of the items in our basket was purchased for just $1, that's unbelievable!! So how can YOU donate?

1. Stop by the Grubb YMCA.
2.Pick up a circle off our Summer Palm Trees.
3. Purchase one or all items on your circle.
4. Bring back to the Grubb YMCA by Friday June 17th.

Its that easy!!

Items needed for each care package:
*4-pack toilet paper *Manual Can Opener *Dish soap * Sponge or dish cloth
*One set of silverware fork/knife/spoon *One place setting with plate/bowl/cup * Paper Towels *All-Purpose spray cleaner *Laundry basket

Donate today and be a part of our core values of Caring and Responsibility. This is a great way to give back to those in need!

LIFE - Learn, Internalize, Feel and Energize

2011-06-07T10:42:00.001-05:00

Teen LIFE

Get ready to change your life this summer. This is a great opportunity for 11-14 year old teens to Learn, Internalize, Feel and Energize your life through a variety of physical activities, new relationships and innovative, quick, easy and most of all, healthy ways to feed your spirit, mind and body.

Join us for just 3 short hours, only 3 days a week, for 8 weeks throughout the summer and let us show you how much fun we can have changing not only your LIFE, but your families, and ours! Help us challenge YOU, your family and us and let’s see how much of a difference we can make in just 8 short weeks! Don’t Miss Out – Only 15 can Register- Sign up today!

Registration Deadline is Monday June 13^th or until we reach our max of 15 participants

When

June 13^th – Aug 12^th

M W F 9am-12pm

The cost is $25 and includes:

-8 week program

- T-Shirt

- Journal

- Youth Membership

- and many more participant and family incentives

Summer kicks off with Day Camp

2011-06-06T12:58:00.001-05:00

Summer has officially arrived here at the John R. Grubb Community YMCA.

What a better way to give your child a great summer experience with our Summer Day Camp. Your children can make life long friends and learn the four YMCA values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility, all while having fun swimming, doing crafts, going to the park and on many other field trips. All of our staff are certified in CPR, First Aid, and Universal Precautions.

So what are you waiting for? Sign up your children today and join us for a fun and safe summer!

Walk with a Purpose in Our Community

2011-05-23T15:36:00.001-05:00

Join us this Wednesday May 25th at 3pm for a walk from the Grubb Y to Evelyn Davis Park and back!

Walking is a great way to be physically active! It's easy to fit into everyday life and it is a simple and fun way for children and adults to get their 60 minutes of activity each day! The John R Grubb YMCA will be hosting a "Walk with a Purpose" event to assess the walkability of our community. During our walk to Evelyn Davis Park we will be completing an assessment of the walk to share with community leaders. We invite you to join us in making our community more walkable!

Flippin Tha Scrypt

2011-05-20T13:53:00.000-05:00

The John R Grubb hosted the 7th Annual "Flippin' Tha Scrypt", YMCA Youth Conference. This was a great event that gave youth an opportunity to learn, experience and develop positive habits that will affect their lives and future choices. All in order to "flip their own script" to realize their potential for a productive future.

Y Camp Program Director BJ Murray does an activity with the Youth

Grubb Director Jamel Crawford interacts with Youth from different metro schools including East and Moulton

Youth members from Elevate speak to a full gym.

Speakers included: Youth from Elevate describing their life experiences and how they flipped their own script to make for a better future, Byron Fitchpatric and Chad Airhart.

We would like to thank all of our great volunteers and staff that helped with this event including Joyce Bruce and the following who held workshops with the Teens.

Workshops included "Decide What You Want" with Jeff Arp

"See What You Want, Get What You See" with Jeremial Rife

"Give Your Best To Be The Best" with Frank Bell

Core Values Shine through Ranch Horse Camp

2011-05-19T19:09:00.000-05:00

The girls from the Callanan Y Teen Club took a field trip to Y Camp in Boone, Iowa.

The girls spent the day on the Ranch Camp with the horses and took away a great learning experience

The group participated in learning basic horse care, equipment usage and simple riding skills.

The Y Teen Club members had a great time learning the Y's core values of Caring, Respect, Honesty and Responsibility while working with the horses. Thank You to the amazing Y Camp staff for a great day!

Urban Baseball League at Grubb

2011-05-16T15:51:00.000-05:00

Spring weather shined this past Saturday when the Urban Baseball League began at the John R. Grubb Y. A couple of the Iowa Cubs Baseball players came out to the first day of practice and registration.

League participants got to spend the day with the I-Cub players. They heard the players talk about their experience on the field and really gave out some good energy for all league participants.

Easter Festivities brings out the Community

2011-04-29T09:48:00.000-05:00


Showing off some crafts

Staff members Ramona, Michele and Jamel serve up some food

Easter came to life at the John R. Grubb YMCA on Thursday, April 21^st as community families gathered to share time together. Families enjoyed a meal on the YMCA, participated in Easter themed crafts, and were able to use the gym and pool. Children especially enjoyed decorating themselves with Easter themed tattoos! The event was a great success, and the John R. Grubb YMCA looks forward to hosting many more community events for families!

Staff member Sunni applies Easter tattoos

2011-04-28T16:25:00.001-05:00

Soccer season has started here at John R Grubb. So far the season is going strong with many participants in both the Pre-K Clinic and Youth Leagues.

During the Clinic 3-4 year olds learn the basics of soccer while enjoying making new friends.

Easter Family Night

2011-04-18T15:49:00.000-05:00

Bring your whole family out the the John R. Grubb YMCA for a night filled with food and fun.
During this Easter event enjoy Free use of the swimming pool and gym. Participate in Easter crafts and activities and have a meal on us!
When: Thursday April 21st 6pm-8pm
This is a Free Event for all ages!

Play and Learn with your Children

2011-03-03T13:25:00.001-06:00

Play and Learn is a Free community based playgroup open to children ages birth to kindergarten and their parents or caregivers.
We provide a fun, interactive learning experience that will help develop young children’s school readiness skills in a variety of areas including fine/large motor, creativity, early literacy, math, science, social/emotional. We also provide information and resources to help guide parents/caregivers in enhancing their children’s development so they can be successful in kindergarten.
These groups give children the opportunity to learn, to get along with other children and experience developmental activities that they might not have available at home.
Healthy snacks are provided for the children.

No need to be a member to participate in Play and Learn. Just stop by the Grubb to participate Tuesdays from 9:00am-10:30am!

Senior/Parent Financial Aid Prep Night

2011-02-23T16:55:00.000-06:00

Parents and Students are invited:
Thursday Feb 24 at 6pm. Get the information needed to apply for Financial Aid for college. An expert from the Iowa College Access Network will provide all the information you need to know and answer your questions about college financial aid. Don't miss out on this opportunity for you to send your High School Senior off to college.

Students:
Saturday February 26 from 10am- 1pm Join in on a College tour of Grand View University! Lunch is included.
Meet at the Grubb Y at 10am and Depart at 10:15. During this trip receive assistance with college financial aid and learn what college is all about with the campus tour. We will Depart for the Y at 1pm

If you have any questions Please contact Jamel Crawford at 515-246-0791

2011-02-17T16:46:00.001-06:00

In the second week of raising money for Y Partners, the Merrill Y Teens have raised 58% of their goal of $200!


Ben and Ciera serve up Hot Chocolate and Coffe to Red Flannel Participants

Cocoa Café also set up coffee in addition to cocoa during the Red Flannel Run at Riverfront YMCA and raised $30 for Y Partners adding to their goal

Next week the Cafe will be adding Lemonade to its menu! So stop by next Wednesday between 1:00-1:30 for $1 refreshments and donate to a great cause!

Buy a Dinner, Donate to Y Partners

2011-02-15T16:05:00.000-06:00

We will be cooking up dinners and selling them to help raise money for Y Partners. All proceeds from the dinners will benefit the Grubb Y. Proceeds help impact youth and families through the Y Partner's campaign. The Y Partners Campaign, enables the Y to offer program and membership scholarships to individuals who would otherwise be unable to afford participation.

When: Thursday Feb 17
            Friday Feb 18
Time: 12:00pm until all is gone
Cost: $10 per dinner
Where: John R Grubb YMCA

Dinners will include a choice of meat and 2 sides

Meats:                                                     Sides:
Ribs                                                         Mac & Cheese
Chicken                                                   Sweet Potatoes
Fried Turkey                                           Baked Beans
Roast                                                       Greens
Ham                                                         Spaghetti

Sweet Potato Pie $2 a slice

Come Join us for some good food and donate to a great cause!

Merrill Y Teen Club campaigns for Y Partners

2011-02-11T13:16:00.000-06:00

For the last 4 years, the Y Teen Leadership Club at Merrill Middle School as hosted a Cocoa Café to help raise money for the Y Partners campaign. This year, the 14 teens in club are actively dedicated to reaching their goals. In preparation for the Café, the club did worksheets to make sure they were prepared and crisp with their math skills, made fliers and posters to advertise and made announcements each morning and afternoon. The teens set a goal for themselves of raising $200 over the course of one month during the Y Partners campaign. After Day 1 of the Cocoa Café, the Y Teens were at 28% of their goal raising $56.50! Stop by after school, for the next 4 weeks on early out Wednesdays 1-1:30pm to help support the Y Teens at Merrill Middle School raise money for Y Partners! Hot Cocoa is only $1, add a topping of your choice for only $.25, we offer whip cream, peppermints and marshmallows!!!

Summer Day Camp

2011-02-10T19:18:00.004-06:00

Believe it or not, its time to start thinking about warm weather and summer fun! Registration is now open for the John R Grubb Y Summer Day Camp! Camp begins on June 6th and runs through August 19th. Sign your child up early to ensure their spot and get ready for fun in the sun!

Zumba at Iowa Energy game

2011-02-09T17:17:00.000-06:00

Come watch members of the Grubb Y Zumba class showcase their skills during the Iowa Energy game this Saturday February 12th. The performance will be at 6:45pm.
Tickets are available for only $8 (offer not valid at the box office)
Contact Kathy Joseph for more information
at 515-689-0142.

Active Older Adults and the Leonardo DaVinci Exhibit at the Science Center

2011-02-09T16:40:00.000-06:00

The Active Older Adults (AOA) had a fantastic time at the Science Center last month. During our visit we viewed "A Brush with Genius" a film at the IMAX, Toured the DaVinvi Exhibit and saw a Documentary about DaVinci. There were 17 of us who attended the Science Center for this amazing experience.

Thanks to the Grubb Y for supplementing the cost and providing transportation.

For more information regarding the Active Older Adults
Please Contact Ramona Bates at 244-3625 or email ramona.bates@yahoo.com

Father Daughter Dance

2011-02-05T16:33:00.000-06:00

Join us for a special night for you and your girls! Dress up and enjoy an evening filled with music, a live DJ, dancing, snacks, and giveaways! all daughters welcome... ages 8 months to 80 years!

Grand Prize
32' HD T.V. will be given away at the end of the dance along with many other prizes.

When
Friday, February 18th
6:00pm to 9:00pm

Where
John R. Grubb YMCA Gymnasium
1611 11th St
Des Moines, IA 50314

Contact for Registration
Morgan Streeter, Fatherhood Initiative Director
515-868-0528 or morgan.streeter@dmymca.org

Additional Info:
Capture the memory with a free 4x6 photo from the evening!
Additional photo packages will be available.
We will be offering photos from 6:00 - 8:00pm

Youth Basketball Season At the Grubb

2011-02-05T12:00:00.002-06:00

Coach Rick Singleton looks on as his team the Raiders play.

Pre-K players.

Children ranging from Pre-K - 5th grade enjoyed playing basketball at the John R. Grubb Y. Their families had a wonderful time watching them play. Thanks to all the people who made it possible for our children and community to enjoy Saturday mornings with family and friends.

Evening Programs Cancelled

2011-02-01T14:45:00.000-06:00

Due to the weather, ALL evening programs at the Grubb YMCA will be cancelled tonight Tuesday Februrary 1, 2011. If you have any questions please contact the front desk at 515-246-0791. Thank You.

Water Exercise Class At the Grubb Y

2011-01-27T15:05:00.000-06:00

Come join our Water Exercise Class held Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 9 am - 10 am. Or Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5:30 - 6:15 pm. Water Fitness provides encouragement and motivation to continue exercising; can improve agility and mobility, improve body awareness as well as providing opportunities for social activities outside of the class.

Active Older Adults to vist the Science Center

2011-01-11T18:29:00.000-06:00

Join the Active Older Adults for the Science Centers Largest Exhibition ever, the DaVinci Exhibit and a viewing of a film about Van Gogh, Brush with the Genius, in the IMAX theatre. This outing is:
Thursday January 13, 2011
Depart from Grubb 1:15pm
Fee: $8

For more information please contact:
Ramona Bates 244-3625
or call the Front Desk at 246-0791

2010 Adult Volunteer

2010-12-28T18:40:00.000-06:00

Edwyn Daye was named John R. Grubb's adult volunteer of 2010. Speaking out for the Y, Edwyn has impacted many individuals and raised significant funds for Partner With Youth. He shared his Y experience and the importance of Partner With Youth funds with attendees at the 2009 kick-off event and the 22nd Annual Bill Reichardt Golf Classic. Edwyn has also participated in the Fatherhood initiative, here at Grubb, for two years and serves as a facilitator for the Wednesday night group.

Thank You Edwyn for being so involved with the Grubb. Partner With Youth is our yearly campaign to help raise money to help families and children who are unable to afford the many benefits of the Y programing. The Fatherhood Initiative is also a very important part of the Grubb, helping fathers re-connect with their children. Edwyn has definitely exemplified what it means to be a part of the Y community.

New January Class- Yoga

2010-12-27T19:01:00.001-06:00

Beginning January 4th, Tuesday nights from 6pm-7pm come to Yoga class at the Grubb. Yoga is a great exercise that incorporates strength, balance and flexibility to promote healthy mind, body and spirit. It revitalizes the mind and concentration while stretching and soothing the body.

2010 Youth Volunteer

2010-12-22T14:05:00.000-06:00

Nelson Atarty was named John R Grubb 2010 Youth Volunteer. Nelson is an honor roll student at Holy Family Catholic School. He has become a dedicated volunteer at the Y and in the community. His involvement includes Youth Achievers, Climb Iowa Rock Climbing program, Hip Hop Dance Club, Summer Teen Camp, Youth Choir and the John R. Grubb Track Club. Nelson is also involved in the African community and invites other African teens to the Grubb. Nelson is a great leader and has achieved much in his endeavors.

Thank You Nelson for exemplifying what it means to be a Y Teen by giving back to the community through the Y and remembering our values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.

Christmas at John R. Grubb

2010-12-19T20:09:00.000-06:00

Thursday we had our annual Christmas Party here at the Grubb. Lots of families came out to enjoy crafts, food, a visit with Santa Claus and our Toys for Tots giveaway. We had such a great response for toys, I know this made for a very special Holiday season for the many children that received them. Enjoy the pictures and Happy Holidays to all!


Toys for Tots Back packs filled with toys!

Members of the East High Boys Basketball Team came to lend a helping hand.

Crafts included snowflakes, cookie decorating and silver bells.

The team helps create a snowman for the decorating contest.

Our Snowman Winner.

Wellness Coaching

2010-12-14T21:15:00.000-06:00

Not sure how to begin your workout routine?
Intimidated to get started on your own?
Are you looking to work on a certain area?

Leave those fears behind and make an appointment with a Wellness Coach today!

Click on our Fitness/Wellness tab at the top of this page and find out what kind of services are included in your membership for free.

All our Wellness Staff are trained to help individuals at all fitness levels!!

Family Movie Night

2010-12-01T11:50:00.001-06:00

Join us Thursday December 9th from 6:30pm-8:30pm for a night the whole family can enjoy! Watch Polar Express on the big screen while enjoying popcorn and hot chocolate! Create your own silver bell to take home and challenge yourself with a Polar Express word find or crossword puzzle. Admission is free!!

Shoes That Fit

2010-11-24T15:50:00.000-06:00

The YMCA of Greater Des Moines is proud to partner with Shoes That Fit during this season of Thanksgiving. One goal of the YMCA is to build caring communities, and through Shoes That Fit, we can accomplish that goal by being an avenue for giving back and providing support to our neighbors.
Shoes that Fit is a national non-profit organization that was established to provide needy elementary school children with clothing necessities such as shoes and coats. The campaign runs from the start of the school year through the first part of December. The goal is to have all needs filled and in the child’s hands before they leave for Christmas break.
For the past 9 years, Mediacom and KIOA, with the help of generous local businesses, like the YMCA of Greater Des Moines, and an overwhelming response from the community, have used this campaign to fill huge needs in the school systems in Des Moines and surrounding communities.
Due to the economy, the number of requests has risen the past couple years. With the continued generosity of participating businesses in the area, and of course the compassion and generosity of their customers, we are committed to fulfilling all the needs that are identified each year to help those in our community.

What to do
1. Choose a card for a child that you would like to help. Cards are located at all YMCA branches.
2. Complete the donor information if you wish.
3. Take your copy of the card with the item, size, and gender of the child that you are helping when you shop.
4. Purchase the requested item within one week.
5. Return the item with the card by the second week of December, in a bag to the YMCA location where you picked up the card.

Fall Festival 2010

2010-11-03T19:00:00.000-05:00

Costume Contest Winners.

Last week at Grubb we had our Annual Fall Festival.Many families from the community came out to participate in games,face painting and a costume contest. It was really great to see some of our regular members and also some new faces as well.
Thanks to everyone that volunteered and came out to such a spectacular event.
We as the staff had a great time and can't wait to do it again next year!

Kayona Brown showcased her face painting skills!

Leukemia doesn't stop Bailey Carson

2010-10-25T16:17:00.001-05:00

You would never guess by just looking at Bailey Carson, an active 6 year old, that she has battled Leukemia since March 2009. Bailey has a very weak immune system but with the okay from her doctors, she is determined to participate in all the same activities that any 6 year old wants to do. She participated in flag football here at the Grubb this season. Bailey says she loves the Grubb YMCA and is having fun playing on a team full of cousins and other family members. She wants to continue playing sports at the Grubb YMCA and hopes to inspire others with her story about being able to do anything no matter what life brings you.

Character in the Park

2010-10-19T15:26:00.000-05:00

We participated in Character in the Park at Evelyn Davis Park last week. Jamel Crawford and Rick Singleton presented an event called character kids.
Games were played between boys and girls, including a cookie eating and lemonade drinking contest. The lesson at the end was "The choices we make today affect us tomorrow."

During the Kids Stay Fit event Carolina Canas set up a station of tag where kids played as individuals and on teams. Our core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility were displayed by all participants.It was a great time seeing the community come together for such a great event and a beautiful day in the park.

YMCA Youth Sports Pledge shines through Flag Football MVP Players

2010-10-13T13:22:00.000-05:00

Ron Schmudlach and Tim Mitchum are just two of the many coaches that volunteer their time for flag football.

"We offer two Y MVP awards for each game. It's just a little plastic football that we hand write "Y MVP 2010" on. Part of the goal is to celebrate a good game but we also make sure all the kids get one by the end of the short season.The kids are quick to ask "who is the MVP" after each game. Tim and I pick two kids each game.I know Tim and I are having a blast coaching and helping the kids learn to live by the Y pledge."

YMCA Youth Sports Pledge:

"Win or lose,

I pledge to do my best;

To be a team player,

To respect my Teammates, Opponents, and Officials;

And to improve myself

In Spirit, Mind, and Body"

Could You Use FREE Financial Advice??

2010-10-04T16:07:00.001-05:00

Evening Money Workshop

Come the the Grubb YMCA and get valuable life-long tips on how to be financially fit.

6 Weeks Only Oct.4-Nov.8

Learn to:
*Understand credit, reports & Scores
*Organize your financial records
*Put your financial dreams into action
*Set spending goals and trim spending
*Open and manage your bank accounts
*Save a dollar when you think you don't have a dime to give
*Learn savings and investment tips for the whole family

Monday Evenings 6-8pm

Contact Claudia Hawkins 515-283-0940 or chawkins@ised.org

ZUMBA It's Fun! It's Fitness!

2010-09-29T16:28:00.001-05:00

ZUMBA is a 60 minute aerobic dance program that fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves to create a one-of-a-kind fitness program that will get you moving and having fun at the same time. A variety of rhythms such as meringue, reggae, cumbia, hip hop and much more are incorporated into ZUMBA.

Classes Begin October 1st

Wed 5:30-6:30pm

Fri 9-10am

Sat 11:30-12:30pm

ZUMBA is a part of our many free fitness classes available with your Y membership.

Join Active Older Adults in a Free Park and Garden Tour.

2010-09-20T16:55:00.000-05:00

Join the Active Older Adults as they tour the Pappajohn Sculpture Park and the Better Home and Garden Test Garden Tour.

Better Homes and Garden is the parent company of Meridth Corporation, located in the heart of downtown Des Moines.
The Test Garden serves as a display garden, a testing ground for plants, and a photography studio for the company's many publications and Web sites.

This event will occur Friday September 24.
Departure will be at 11:00am at the Grubb YMCA.

This event includes transportation and a sack lunch
And it's FREE!!!

Come to the John R Grubb YMCA today to sign up!!

Contact Ramona Bates 244-3625 for more questions

Seniors Pull up a Chair and Exercise!

2010-09-09T14:59:00.000-05:00

This week at the John R. Grubb YMCA a new fitness class began encouraging all seniors to get active in a low impact way. Senior Sneakers Chair Class is a great way for seniors of all ages to build muscle strength and stay flexible. These simple slow-moving exercises can also improve balance, increase metabolism, relieve pain and improve mental alertness. Here at the John R. Grubb YMCA we have programs for all ages!!

The YMCA and my kids

2010-08-25T17:34:00.001-05:00

Being a member of the Y has helped me spend more quality time with my children. My son has a disability and we have really enjoyed swimming at the Y. – Alejandra Villanueva

Y Camp

2010-08-25T17:32:00.004-05:00

My kids wanted to go to camp but I was worried because I didn’t think I would be able to afford it. Thank you to the Y for sending my kids to camp for free. I am very gracious that they could go because they went last year and really enjoyed themselves and had been looking forward to going again this year. They had a great time at camp and really enjoyed all the activities, even getting up to eat breakfast (because of donuts)! I’m grateful that the Y made it possible for them.

- Luz Alvarez