Three locations offer vast array of community services

Throughout the United States, the YMCA is one of the most renowned nonprofit organizations when it comes to providing services that support families and the community at large.

For the South Montgomery County YMCA, this mission is no different, said Mark Cochran, community executive director.

"We're here for all," he said. "Regardless of race, religion or socio-economic status, we are here to serve all and we can help all."

There are three different locations in The Woodlands that make up the South Montgomery County YMCA. The Shadowbend building—built in 1986—offers the typical YMCA experience with indoor swimming facilities, a climbing wall and wellness and fitness centers. Branch Crossing—similar to Shawdowbend—came in 2004 to deal with increased demand for YMCA facilities. The YMCA Adventure Center at Creekside offers 15 acres of outdoor activities, including swimming, hiking and canoeing.

The YMCA also offers after school services and childcare services for non-school age children. It serves 18 area elementary schools.

The YMCA's success over the years can be measured by its ability to reflect the needs of the community, Cochran said.

He identified the YMCA's outreach programs to disadvantaged communities as some of its most valuable. Through volunteers, the YMCA provides programs and camp services to assisted living facilities in the Tamina community at no charge.

"Service to all in the community is really what we strive for," Cochran said. "Having that program for those children, as opposed to having them sitting in their apartment alone all day while Mom and Dad are at work, allows them to participate in something positive."

Additionally, outreach programs have been put in place to assist special needs individuals who live at home.

"For that young adult, there's not always a whole lot to do. We offer a program that allows them to cultivate social skills and gives relief for the family unit at the same time," Cochran said.

Funding for these programs is raised during the YMCA's annual support campaign. This year the campaign—which ran from Feb. 1 to mid-March—enlisted the help of 150 volunteers to tell the YMCA's story and raise money through donations. They raised just more than $550,000, Cochran said.

"Everything we offer for financial assistance is available to all who apply on a very non-red-tape basis," Cochran said. "Our motto is that we do not turn anyone away for the inability to pay."

YMCA at Shadowbend, 6145 Shadowbend, The Woodlands, TX 77381, 281.367.9622

YMCA at Branch Crossing, 8100 Ashlane Way, The Woodland, 281.367.9622

Outdoor Adventure Center at Creekside, 6464 Creekside Forest Drive, The Woodlands, 832.698.1283