Heat, Health and Community: What Summer Teaches Us About Access to Well-being

As summer reaches its peak in Northeast Ohio, the heat brings more than sun-soaked days and time by the pool. For many in our community, it brings risk—especially for older adults, children and people living without reliable access to air conditioning or stable housing.

August often marks the end of summer fun, but it is also one of the most dangerous months for heat-related illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1,200 people in the United States die from extreme heat each year, with thousands more hospitalized. That number is expected to grow as climate patterns shift, infrastructure ages and disparities in health access deepen.

At the YMCA of Greater Cleveland, we see the impact of extreme heat every day. Parents bring their children indoors to cool off and stay safe. Older adults seek relief in our wellness centers. And individuals facing homelessness or housing insecurity turn to us for rest and refuge—many through our Y-Haven program, which provides housing, recovery support and life-skills training for those overcoming addiction and homelessness.

In these moments, the Y is more than a place to swim or work out. It becomes a place of safety, healing and community.

This is a role we have played for more than 170 years. Since our founding in 1854, the YMCA of Greater Cleveland has responded to the evolving needs of our community, especially in times of crisis. Today, the challenges posed by extreme heat and climate change are no exception. Ensuring access to health and well-being is now an essential part of our mission.

But heat does not affect everyone equally. Neighborhoods with limited green space, families without cooling systems and people with chronic health conditions are at greater risk. Add to that the impact of poverty, isolation and lack of transportation, and it becomes clear: extreme heat is not just a weather issue. It is a public health and equity issue.

That’s why we offer free access to cooling spaces during heat advisories, income-based membership options and expanded programming that supports mental, physical and emotional well-being. And it's why the committed volunteers on the Y Board of Directors are always looking at ways to expand Y services to areas of our community where resources are needed the most.

We also believe it’s time to broaden the way we define health. Traditional fitness goals—like calories burned or miles logged—are just one part of the picture. True well-being includes safety, connection, purpose and belonging. It means having a place to go when it’s unsafe to be outside. It means knowing your children have structured, enriching programs. It means being part of a community that sees you and supports you.

Summer heat can magnify the gaps in our systems, but it also reveals something powerful: local, community-based organizations like the YMCA are uniquely positioned to fill those gaps with compassion and consistency.

At the YMCA of Greater Cleveland, we believe well-being should never depend on your ZIP code or income level. It should be available to everyone, in every season.

Because in the heart of every community, and especially during times of challenge, well-being begins with access—and grows through connection.