ATHOL, Mass. — The Athol Area YMCA is now open 24 hours a day, five days a week, ensuring a 24/5 model of operation as it works to fill its membership and thank first responders after the worst of the pandemic.

The Athol Y’s executive director, Jennifer Gordon, says she believes the Athol Y is the first in the state to employ these hours. 

“Ensuring access for all is one of the many ways the YMCA ensures an inclusive environment,” said Executive Director Jennifer Gordon. “Our essential workers and first responders worked tirelessly during the pandemic, and this is our way of giving back to them.”

Gordon said that she’s opening the Y on a 24-hour schedule to accommodate those who work second or third shifts, as well as those who want to use the Y’s fitness facilities late in the evening. She is also hoping to increase membership, which dropped off during the pandemic when many wellness centers were forced to shut down.

In addition, adults are also able to sign up for a reduced fee of $25 for the first month. After that time, membership costs will be re-evaluated to meet individuals’ personal financial needs. A normal adult membership at the Athol Area Y is $45 a month.

“Our YMCA has remained open during the pandemic finding ways of providing virtual wellness programming, essential childcare and COVID-19 relief funding for families in need,” Gordon said. “We are excited to be able to open our doors without restrictions and continue serving the community.”

According to Gordon, the Athol Area YMCA didn’t shut down during the pandemic because they ran emergency childcare in the wellness facilities. In addition, the United Way of North Central Massachusetts and the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts gave funding to the Y to help people pay their bills during the pandemic. Gordon said the organization paid $200,000 in bills, which included utilities, rent and hotel stays for people as necessary.

More than 6,000 people utilize the Athol Area YMCA annually for programs such as swim lessons, basketball, group exercise classes, martial arts, swim team and senior fitness. The 24/5 model of operation began on Monday, July 5. The Y will open at 5:00 a.m. every Monday, remaining open until Friday at 9:00 p.m. Hours of operation on Saturday and Sunday will be from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.