For generations, the Putnam County Family YMCA has been more than a gym. The YMCA supports families across Cookeville and the Upper Cumberland through wellness, outreach, and youth programs.
“The Putnam County Family YMCA exists to strengthen our communities by caring for the whole person,” said Mandy Perhay, CEO of the Putnam County Family YMCA.
“At its core, the Y is about belonging,” Perhay said. “Everyone is welcomed, supported, and encouraged to grow.”
Today, the YMCA serves approximately 15,000 people each year through memberships, programs, outreach efforts, and community events.
YMCA Swim Lessons and Water Safety Programs in Cookeville
One major YMCA initiative is Learn to Swim. Specifically, the program focuses on water safety and drowning prevention.
For more than 30 years, the YMCA has taught over 25,000 children life-saving swim skills.
“This program goes beyond teaching strokes,” Perhay said. “Instead, it builds confidence, saves lives, and gives families peace of mind.”
Additionally, the YMCA partners with local schools for second-grade swim lessons.
As a result, more children gain access to critical water safety education.
Financial Assistance Programs Help Families Access YMCA Services
Accessibility also remains central to the YMCA’s mission. Through Open Doors, families receive financial assistance for memberships and programs.
Each year, the YMCA provides approximately $150,000 in financial assistance through the program.
“Our goal is simple,” Perhay said. “Financial circumstances should never prevent someone from being part of the Y.”
Because of Open Doors, more families can access wellness resources, support, and community connection.
YMCA Cancer Recovery Program Offers Healing and Support
Beyond youth programming, the YMCA also offers wellness support for cancer survivors.
Through the Cancer Recovery Program, approximately 50 survivors participate annually.
The program helps participants rebuild strength, improve mobility, and restore emotional wellbeing after treatment.
One participant joined after battling Triple Breast Cancer at age 33.
“The accountability of a trainer and personalized programming kept me consistent,” the participant shared.
As a result, she experienced greater energy, mobility, confidence, and improved sleep.
Through the program, she also regained mobility, gained strength, and completed a 5K without walking.
“Exercise 100% decreases my fatigue,” she said. “It has improved my quality of life.”
Building Community Through Partnerships Across the Upper Cumberland
Additionally, the YMCA partners with schools, healthcare providers, nonprofits, businesses, and municipalities throughout the Upper Cumberland.
Together, these partnerships help expand outreach efforts, youth programs, wellness initiatives, and community events.
“We are more than a fitness center,” Perhay said. “We are a trusted community partner.”
Looking ahead, the YMCA plans to expand outreach and wellness efforts into underserved communities.
The organization also plans to strengthen youth and family engagement throughout the region.
“We hope to continue building healthier, more connected communities,” Perhay said.
To learn more or support the mission, visit:
👉 https://operations.daxko.com/online/4043/OnlineGiving/Donation.mvc
-by Chelsea Dartez, photos provided by the Putnam County Family YMCA
