Lynch van/Otterloo YMCA

The Lynch/van Otterloo YMCA in Marblehead is one of seven branches of the YMCA of the North Shore, a nonprofit that sets out to welcome all, strengthen communities, educate and nurture children, and promote healthy living in spirit, mind and body. Members find programs for all ages, stages and abilities, from swimming, basketball and gymnastics to yoga and pickleball, and the Y also runs summer camps.

The Y presents itself as more than a place to work out: a place to meet neighbors and feel connected to the community. Its broader work includes education, food security, swim safety and affordable housing, and the organization says it reaches one out of every three people on the North Shore. It aims to serve everyone regardless of ability to pay, with flexible pricing to keep membership accessible.

What to Know

• Certification courses are offered in lifeguarding, CPR/AED, pediatric and adult first aid, and swim instruction.
• Other YMCA of the North Shore branches are in Gloucester, Beverly, Haverhill, Ipswich, Salem and Plaistow, New Hampshire.
• The association also runs an Early Learning Center in Amesbury.