Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At the Y, we’re proudly ‘For All.’ But what does ‘For All’ mean if some of us are prevented from accessing the opportunities we need to thrive? We acknowledge and commit to a journey of addressing the systemic inequities that impact the Rock River Valley.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 

The Y is made up of people of all ages, from all walks of life, working side-by-side to strengthen communities. Together, we strive to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, age, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender, gender expression, gender identity, ideology, income, national origin, race or sexual orientation has the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity. Our core values are caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and faith — they guide everything we do.

We welcome the opportunity to include all members at the YMCA, and we recognize that some members with disabilities may need reasonable modifications in order to participate in our programs, events, and activities. For assistance or information on accessibility, please contact the membership desk and request an appointment with our Inclusion and Accessibility specialist. You can also email Sarah White, Director of Inclusion and Accessibility, at sarahwhite@rockriverymca.org.

You may also click the button below to make your request online. Please allow up to two weeks for any disability-related modifications. 

INCLUSION SERVICES

Accommodations

Inclusion services within the YMCA of Rock River Valley means individuals with disabilities are welcome to participate in the same recreation programs and events as their peers at no additional cost. Reasonable accommodations are provided to enable the individual’s successful participation in the activities provided. Eligibility requirements may still preclude participation, but will be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the nature of the program, event, or activity. 

The YMCA requires two weeks’ notice in order for necessary supports to be put into place. Shorter notice requests may be made, but fufillment cannot be guaranteed. 

Examples of Reasonable Accommodations:
Activity Modification
Increased Staff:Participant Ratio
Visual systems
Behavior Management Supports
Assistance with feeding or toileting needs
Individualized support plans



​Eligibility Guidelines

In order to enroll and participate in any program or activity offered, the YMCA of Rock River Valley requires the following from participants:

Participants must be able to refrain from physical or aggressive outbursts and behaviors
Participants must be able to stay with the group/enrolled program
Participants must be able to comply with verbal and visual instructions to a degree that staff can ensure their safety. 

If a parent or guardian discloses that a participant does not have the capacity to comply with these guidelines due to a disability, every effort will be made to determine a way for successful participation; however, removal or unenrollment from the program will be at the discretion of both the directors of program and Inclusion & Accessibility. 

For assistance or information on accessibility, please contact the membership desk and request an appointment with our Inclusion and Accessibility specialist. You can also email Sarah White, Director of Inclusion and Accessibility, at sarahwhite@rockriverymca.org.



Sign Language Interpreters

Members who require the assistance of a Sign Language Interpreter or other language specialist are asked to email SarahWhite@rockriverymca.org or contact the membership desk. Fourteen (14) days notice is required, though short notice requests will be honored when possible to do so. 



Disability Related Focus Group

At the YMCA, we believe in belonging for all. However, we recognize that there may be barriers that prevent individuals with disabilities from being able to easily access everything we have to offer - we want to change that. Our goal is to make sure everyone feels like they truly belong. With this in mind, we are currently seeking individuals or families that are impacted by disability to join our efforts so that we can learn how we can better serve our community. 

Please click the enrollment button below to get started. Should you need an alternative format in order to register or participate, please let a membership representative know your preferred method of communication so that we can reach out accordingly. 

Ongoing participation may take place through group meetings or other in-person events. 



Advancing Equity

Equity is a continual process of ensuring that every individual has the access and opportunity they need to thrive and are not at a disadvantage from achieving their potential because of their background, identity, or social position. To advance equity, we must evaluate and dismantle the systemic barriers to opportunities and resources that have prevented the full participation of some groups - based on certain characteristics - and develop relevant solutions and support systems.