CORNING, NY – The YMCA of Greater Rochester is pleased to announce the opening of our first-ever sensory room at the Corning Family YMCA.
The outside world can be a challenging and stressful place where adults and children with sensory-processing conditions don’t always feel like they’re in control. Sensory rooms, like this new one at Y, are designed to promote calm and offer a space to reset.
“Many people turn to us for physical health, but we know the Y is so much more,” said Ernie Lamour, President & CEO, YMCA of Greater Rochester. “The Y has been around for nearly 200 years and has remained an integral part of the lives of so many because we continue to evolve to meet the needs of our ever-changing community. This sensory room is another incredible example of how we are serving community right here in Corning.”
The new sensory room at the Corning Family YMCA has many benefits, including providing members with a place to reduce tension and agitation while promoting individualized learning, and where children and caregivers a space to bond and form strong relationships.
“Our members and staff have created an amazing community here at our Y,” said Gail Hostuttler, Executive Director, Corning Family YMCA. “We have so many spaces and programs where families and individuals come to find connection, and we’re proud to provide one more area for our members to find their community and safe place.”
Features of our sensory room include tactile a wall and floor, fidget toys, calming corner and more. This room was designed with our mission in mind which emphasizes making the Y available to all.
The sensory room is open to all members to use as a free member benefit. Members can sign up for their 30-minute session at the front desk. In addition to our new sensory room, the Corning Family YMCA recently opened a teaching kitchen, made possible in support by the American Heart Association, which has increased programming for adults of all abilities.