YMCA offers incentives to new members while preparing for growth

"When people see all that a Y membership has to offer to help them achieve their health and wellness goal, they are eager to join," says Cyndy Vogt, association director, marketing & communications, for the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids. "As a result, January is one of our busiest months for new member sign ups."

Vogt indicates that membership is growing at the eight West Michigan Y facilities, and retention is higher than the national average, a result she says is due to the unique programming and staff that is well-trained and focuses on the individual needs of the members.

This type of growth bodes well as Wyoming prepares to open a new Y on the Metro Health campus in mid-to-late summer. The new facility will be known as the Spartan Stores YMCA and Vogt anticipates over 200 jobs added, of which 30-40 will be full time.

To help kick start the year, the Y of Greater Grand Rapids offers local residents a special deal, waiving the joining fee of up to $160 for families. Vogt feels this incentive is a great way to follow through on New Year resolutions and makes it more affordable to become a member of one of their eight locations in West Michigan. The special rate runs through Saturday, Jan. 22.

Source: Cyndy Vogt, YMCA Greater Grand Rapids
Writer: John Rumery, Innovation and Jobs Editor
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