DOWNINGTOWN – In an ongoing effort to support student well-being and strengthen community connections, Lionville Middle School (LMS) is proud to renew its partnership with the Lionville Community YMCA, part of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW). Through this initiative, all interested seventh graders at LMS will receive a free YMCA membership, giving them full access to the YMCA’s fitness and wellness facilities.

This partnership, now in its second year, reflects the growing commitment between the Downingtown Area School District (DASD) and community organizations to support students’ physical health and encourage lifelong wellness habits. The collaboration involves LMS physical education (PE) teachers leading students on a guided tour of the YMCA facilities, allowing them to explore everything the organization has to offer – from state-of-the-art fitness equipment to recreation spaces and classes of wellness.

“We are excited to continue our partnership with Lionville Middle School,” said Andrew Holets, executive director of the Lionville Community YMCA. “This initiative encourages students to take charge of their health and wellness at a young age, and we are excited to see more students, along with their families, join our YMCA community. By providing this opportunity, we hope to inspire more students to begin or continue their fitness journeys, creating lasting habits that will benefit their health for years to come.”

In addition to encouraging seventh graders to use the free membership, the partnership also aims to motivate students to continue their YMCA memberships into eighth grade, with the hope that their families will consider joining as well. The LMS PE Department actively encourages students to take advantage of this incredible opportunity.

“The partnership between Lionville Middle School and the YMCA aligns perfectly with our commitment to student well-being,” said Kristen Del Grippo, assistant principal and athletic director at Lionville Middle School. “We have seen so many students benefit from this partnership and we are excited to see it grow. Our goal is to empower students to make healthier choices and give them access to resources that can help them thrive both in and out of school.”

The District is eager to highlight this valuable initiative as an example of how community partnerships can enhance student experiences. Justin Brown, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at DASD, added, “This partnership exemplifies the power of community organizations working together for the well-being of our students. By connecting with organizations like the YMCA, we are able to expand the resources available to our students, encouraging not only physical health, but community connection as well. It is inspiring to see how this collaboration supports the whole child.”

For more information on the YGBW 7th Grade Initiative, visit https://ymcagbw.org/7th-grade-initiative.