CLAY COUNTY – The YMCA is using this unique moment in its history to adapt and innovate in ways that might not have been before the coronavirus pandemic.

Clay County’s two YMCA locations closed its doors at the same time that gyms and other community gathering places did weeks ago as a result of the coronavirus but wanting to continue to serve its members, it has adapted to the times. This includes an online portfolio of lessons and workout plans.

“It’s definitely changed the way we do business, but it challenges us to be innovative,” Vice President of Operations Don Dearolf said. “Online platforms have been great and we’re really proud of our ability to reach out to our active and older adults, who might typically be the most isolated and vulnerable during these times.”

Dearolf said the company has been making calls to its members in the form of wellness checks and to help set them up with the now-online services of the YMCA. Coaches and trainers are available too. Unfortunately, the number of coaches and trainers has dwindled as 94% of the YMCA’s staff has been furloughed while the actual facilities remain closed.

Those employees are still being supported by the company in a number of ways though, Dearolf said.

“We’re really proud of our volunteers and supporters that support us financially,” Dearolf said. “We’ve created an emergency employee assistance fund and the funds have been generated by the generosity of the community.”

A food distribution partnership with Feeding Northeast Florida has been created as well and that’s providing food to not only furloughed employees, but people in the community in need. A food drive held last Friday to serve food to 12 families, and Dearolf said the YMCA will continue to do this as long as they have the food to make it happen.

The organization is asking members to continue to pay their monthly membership fees at this time, too, even though the facilities are closed.

“Eighty percent of our members have decided to stay with us and keep their membership dues paid,” Dearolf said. “They’re making it possible for us to support the things we do. From those we’ve heard, they’re looking to stay with us as an organization during these times because they know our work is important and that means a lot to us.

“It speaks to Clay County. We’re a generous community as it is and to see that through these times, they’re choosing to stay with us, we’re forever grateful that our members are willing to spring into action like that. Seeing that kind of support is a testament of this community and the people that call it home.”

Dearolf said looking into the future, the YMCA is working to ensure that when the time is right, the organization is on top of everything. He said they’re working to have the highest standards in place to ensure cleanliness and proper social distancing.

“Things are going to look different when we get back.”