Go For the Gold with the YMCA’s No Boundaries Games

Go For the Gold with the

YMCA’s No Boundaries Games

Gwen Akers

The Ashland Beacon

This year, the Ashland YMCA is proud to announce their third annual No Boundaries Games. Modeled after the Special Olympics, the No Boundaries Games celebrate and welcome all, giving individuals from all across the region the chance to make new friends and compete for the gold.

Launched three years ago after YMCA CEO Scott Campbell saw an opportunity to create an event like the Special Olympics right here in Ashland, the event has since become one of the most anticipated events of the year hosted by the Ashland Area YMCA.

“We have an incredible group of people who work together to make it a success,” commented Julie Vinson, H.R. and Community Relations Director at the YMCA. “What we look forward to most each year is seeing the pure joy and excitement on our participants’ faces as they showcase their talents and abilities. It’s truly inspiring to witness.”

The No Boundaries Games have something for everyone, allowing individuals of all abilities the chance to come out and play. A free event for ages 14 and up, the games will feature a full line up of events including swimming, basketball, track, and the fun zone which includes games like coloring, cornhole, bowling and Connect Four. A new event is also being introduced this year, the Football Throw. Participants will select two events to show off their skills in.

This event is at the heart of our YMCA’s mission, working to fulfill human potential and enrich our quality of life. The No Boundaries Games are yet another opportunity to celebrate everyone in our community, and to give access to sports and equipment that you might not find otherwise. Standing on the pillars of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility, the Ashland YMCA serves every aspect of our community, encouraging us all to live healthy lives together.

 “The Ashland Area YMCA is for all. Events like the No Boundaries Games embody our mission of inclusion–offering opportunities for individuals of all abilities to participate, have fun and feel celebrated,” detailed Vinson.

This year, the Fun Zone is proving to be the most popular event, with basketball coming in at a close second. Everyone is invited to participate, and the event itself will be held on Friday, Nov. 14 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. After the event, a meal will be hello for all guests and each participant will receive a medal in recognition for their amazing achievements in the No Boundaries Games.

In the future, the YMCA hopes to continue to expand the No Boundaries Games and host new and exciting events each year. For now, it’s time for us to practice our skills for this year’s games.

Whatever your talent is, the YMCA wants you to share it with the community. Continuing to put Ashland first, the No Boundaries Games are sure to be a great opportunity to show off your skills and make new friends in the community. For more information, you can call 606.324.6191 or visit the Ashland YMCA at 3232 Megan Neyer Way.