YMCA announces closing

Talk about it

Multiple sources confirm that the YMCA of River Falls sent an e-mail message to its members the night of March 8, announcing that it will close March 31.

The communication, from YMCA Group Vice President of Operations Stephanie Chauss, says:

“We have very important information about your membership at the River Falls Y. We are greatly saddened and disappointed to tell you that the YMCA has been forced to make the decision to close the River Falls Y effective March 31, 2012. Regrettably, this decision became necessary because we could not reach an affordable lease agreement with our landlord, Nash Finch Company.

We are sending you a letter with all the details. Expect it to arrive early next week.

Very difficult decision, continue the Y mission

This was a very difficult and wrenching decision. The Y’s mission to strengthen community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility was being lived out each and every day through a wide range of programs and services. Our hope is that members and program participants will continue to take advantage of Y programs in other communities.

What will happen with your Y membership

The River Falls Y will be available to you until March 31. After that date, you have two options.

• Continue your Y membership, access to all 21 locations

  We sincerely hope that you will continue your Y membership and receive services at our Hudson Y, or any of the other 20 Y locations across the greater Twin Cities metro area. To show our appreciation for your support, we are extending special perks and privileges. See your letter for details or call Member Services at 715-425-9778 or 715-386-1616.

• Ending your Y membership

  If you choose to end your Y membership, stop in or call Member Services at 715-425-9778 or 715-386-1616 by March 12. To show our appreciation of your support, we will process a refund for what you have paid for the month of March. Please notify us of your decision by March 12 so we do not process an electronic fund transfer (EFT) for April and months forward.

Fitness reimbursement with insurance companies and prepaid Y services Your letter will have all the details.

Thank you for your support

Please know that we fully recognize that the news of the Y closing is very difficult for you to hear. You, and others in the community, have been loyal supporters of the Y these past eight plus years. We thank you for that. We are deeply grateful for the support and commitment of the donors, volunteers, members and community leaders who made the work of the Y possible.

Thank you for your understanding and support. We are proud and pleased that you chose to be a member of the Y. Your letter will have all the details and will arrive shortly. Please call Member Services at 715-425-9778 or 715-386-1616 to continue your membership.”

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