YMCA collaborates with Fox Cities Chamber to offer special member deal for small businesses

Partnership reinforces each of their commitments to creating a healthier workforce

The YMCA of the Fox Cities is partnering with the Fox Cities Chamber to offer membership benefits to employees of Chamber small business members.

Any small business that is a Connect Free member of the Chamber can sign up for a special corporate membership that allows their employees to receive a discount when joining the YMCA of the Fox Cities. Additionally, the usual joiner fee for new YMCA memberships will be waived.

The Chamber launched its Connect Free membership level in 2022 as a free membership for businesses with five or fewer full-time employees (or equivalent), nonprofits with 10 or fewer employees, and freestanding restaurants in the Fox Cities. Businesses must be located in Outagamie, Calumet or northern Winnebago County.

“We know that small businesses often operate on a limited budget; but the health and wellness of their employees is vital for their company’s success. This collaborative effort makes membership with the YMCA of the Fox Cities more affordable and supports our mission of providing the tools and resources to help small businesses thrive,” said Becky Bartoszek, President and CEO of the Fox Cities Chamber.

According to Bret Salscheider, President and CEO of the YMCA of the Fox Cities “This partnership aligns with the YMCA of the Fox Cities’ purpose to strengthen the community, offering tangible support to small businesses and their employees, enhancing their quality of life, and contributing to the overall health and vitality of the community.”

Employees of Chamber small businesses who join will have access to six YMCA locations and three 24/7 locations in the Fox Cities and nationwide membership accommodating various schedules and lifestyles.

Other benefits include:

  • Fitness Assessments: Personalized fitness evaluations to help employees understand their current fitness level and set achievable goals.
  • Launch Kit: A comprehensive package provided to each participating business, including information on program benefits, how to enroll, and tips for promoting wellness in the workplace.
  • Wellness Presentations: Regularly scheduled presentations on various health and wellness topics, tailored to the needs and interests of small business employees.
  • Team Building Activities: Organized activities at the YMCA to promote teamwork, communication, and a sense of community among employees.
  • Incentives and Wellness Challenges: Motivational challenges and incentives to encourage active participation in wellness activities.
  • Employee Wellness Surveys: Assistance in developing and managing surveys to assess employee health needs and preferences, ensuring the program aligns with their interests.

Added Bartoszek: “Having been a part of the Fox Cities for 150 years, we understand the unique needs of small business, who make up 99.9% of all businesses in the country and are responsible for nearly half of our economic activity. We are thrilled to be able to partner with the YMCA to offer an affordable program specifically for this group.”

To enroll please contact the Fox Cities Chamber: [email protected] or (920) 734-7101.

The YMCA of the Fox Cities also offers a corporate membership for larger companies. Contact Kristin Johnson for details: [email protected] or (920) 886-2153.

Small businesses who qualify and currently are not a Fox Cities Chamber Connect Free member can sign up online at https://foxcitieschamber.com/connect-free-membership/.

About Fox Cities Chamber

Founded in 1874, the Fox Cities Chamber is a nonprofit membership organization that unites the regional business community for greater economic impact. Serving Outagamie, Calumet, and northern Winnebago Counties, the Fox Cities Chamber is the second largest Chamber in the state.

Our organization proudly captures the energy of one of Wisconsin’s most dynamic regions and transforms it into innovative programs and services to champion employers, economic development, and quality of life. The Fox Cities Chamber is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2024. For more information, visit https://foxcitieschamber.com/chamber-150th-anniversary/ .

About YMCA of the Fox Cities

The YMCA of the Fox Cities has been a unifying force in the Fox Valley for over 136 years strengthening communities through Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility. The YMCA of the Fox Cities consists of six branches: Apple Creek YMCA, Appleton YMCA, Fox West YMCA, Heart of the Valley

YMCA, Neenah-Menasha YMCA and Ogden YMCA and Valley Tennis Center. It also owns and operates YMCA Camp Nan A Bo Sho, a 40-acre overnight camp on the shores of Waubee Lake near Lakewood, Wisconsin. Visit ymcafoxcities.org for more information.