The Westfield Area YMCA, a recipient of a prestigious Bogaert Grant in 2022 from The Westfield Foundation, has marked a significant milestone with the completion of its expanded Family Locker Rooms. The newly unveiled space, which officially opened its doors in September 2023, is a testament to both the YMCA’s and The Westfield Foundation’s commitment to inclusivity and addressing the unique needs of its community members.
The expansion features 12 Family Locker Rooms, all meticulously designed to beADAcompliant, catering to individuals who require specialized assistance. These handicappedaccessible changing spaces are a shining example of how theYMCA’s grant funding is making a tangible impact on the local community.
The Family Locker Room is purposefully designated for individuals with special or adaptive needs, as well as adults accompanying small children. Each of the 12 individualized changing spaces is equipped with essential amenities to ensure a comfortable and accommodating environment. Among the features are a shower, grab bar, and bench, all aimed at providing a seamless experience for those requiring extra assistance.
Furthermore, the Family Locker Room includes two handicapped-accessible bathrooms, reinforcing the YMCA’s commitment to fostering an environment that prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity for all members.
“Thanks to the generous support of The Westfield Foundation, the Westfield Area YMCA will continue meeting the needs of current and future generations with the new ADA accessible Family Locker Rooms,” said Mark Elsasser, Westfield Area YMCA CEO. “We are proud of our relationship with The Westfield Foundation and thankful for the impact the Bogaert Grant has had our ability to strengthen the foundations of our community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
The project aligns with the WestfieldArea YMCA’s overarching mission to serve as a community hub for all. The Bogaert Grant has played a pivotal role in making this vision a reality, enabling the YMCA to create spaces that truly serve everyone.