press releases

For media inquiries please contact:
Rick Batyko
rbatyko@clevelandymca.org
direct: 216-263-6836
cell: 330-421-3178

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​AUG 25, 2020

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The Cleveland Foundation Provides Grant to the YMCA of Greater Cleveland for Expanding and Enhancing Y-Haven's Recovery Services During Covid-19

The Cleveland Foundation has awarded the YMCA of Greater Cleveland a grant of $200,000 for expanding and enhancing Y-Haven's recovery services during COVID-19. Y-Haven provides housing and drug and alcohol treatment to those struggling with homelessness and addiction. The center offers an array of services to help participants recover from addiction, find work and secure permanent housing. Y-Haven holds top-level accreditation from CARF International.
 
The grant will enable Y-Haven to:

• Work to reduce the likelihood of overdose in the client population through the provision of high-quality treatment, education, and support services.
• Install the equipment and infrastructure necessary to make telehealth services available to residents. 
• Connect clients to wraparound services to help reduce the likelihood of relapse, overdose, and/or a return to homelessness.

“We are grateful for the Cleveland Foundation’s support,” stated Timothy Hilk, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Cleveland. “The social isolation caused by COVID-19 leads to chronic loneliness and boredom, which can have detrimental effects on physical and mental well-being of people of all ages and backgrounds. This pandemic presents unique challenges for people with substance use disorders in recovery. While we quickly adapted Y-Haven to operate effectively in this environment using available means, this support will allow us to advance and extend our services to some of the most vulnerable people in our community.”
 
“The stress from social isolation and other COVID-19 related life changes can lead to or worsen substance use and misuse,” added Ed Gemerchak, Executive Director of Y-Haven Transitional Housing. “Y-Haven’s staff has performed exemplarily under the circumstance to meet the needs of our residents. This funding will provide them with better tools and resources to enhance the care that is so desperately needed for our residents who are working hard to make positive and lasting changes in their lives.”

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​AUG 18, 2020

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YMCA of Greater Cleveland Appoints Susan Fuehrer to its Board of Directors
 
The YMCA of Greater Cleveland has appointed Susan Fuehrer to its Board of Directors. Fuehrer serves as MetroHealth’s President for the Institute for H.O.P.E.TM (Health, Opportunity, Partnership, Empowerment). YMCA Board members are responsible for establishing policy and strategic direction for the Y, as well as creating opportunities and establishing relationships that advance the YMCA’s mission and cause.  
           
Fuehrer joined the MetroHealth System in 2019. In her role with the Institute, she addresses social determinants of health in a comprehensive and coordinated manner. Through connecting members of Northeast Ohio with resources and support – healthy food, job training, housing, legal services, and equitable, quality healthcare – the Institute for H.O.P.E. helps people in the community live healthy lives of opportunity, dignity, and hope.
 
            “We are excited to welcome Susan to the board of the YMCA of Greater Cleveland,” said Marc Hays, partner, Acquisitions and Leasing at Stanbery Development Group and chair of the YMCA of Greater Cleveland Board of Trustees. “Susan’s background in advocacy, running the VA and now as President of Institute for H.O.P.E., perfectly aligns with our strategic goals.  Her expertise will be invaluable as we work to be a leading organization in NE Ohio working towards racial and social equity with the community.” 

​Previously, Susan served as the CEO and Executive Director of the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System.  She spent 34 years at the VA and rose from a management intern to become CEO in September 2010.  She served as the leader and visionary for one of VA’s largest healthcare systems with a strong reputation for excellent outcomes and value for patient care, academic education and research.
 
Susan completed her Bachelor of Science from the University of New Hampshire in 1986 and Master of Business Administration from Case Western Reserve University in 1990.  She is also a graduate of Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.  She currently serves on the boards of the Greater Northern Ohio American Red Cross, Cuyahoga Community College Foundation and the Center for Health Affairs.  Susan was a recipient of a Presidential Rank Award, the most prestigious award in Federal career civil service, in 2019.

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