Strengthening community isn’t just a goal; at the YMCA it’s a daily commitment. For families throughout Northwest Indiana, the Y is more than a place to exercise. It’s a trusted partner that empowers individuals across Lake, Porter and LaPorte Counties to live healthier, safer and more connected lives.

You can support the effort from Monday, July 13, through Sunday, July 19, when Crossroads YMCA, as well as other Northern Indiana YMCAs, will be the beneficiaries of Strack & Van Til’s Checkout Challenge Round Up. Customers across the Region can round up their purchase to the nearest dollar when shopping at all Lake and Porter County Strack & Van Til stores, with those extra funds donated to the organization.

Crossroads YMCA Director of Development Matt Lambert says the proceeds from the Checkout Challenge Round Up will help provide critical swim lessons that teach essential water‑safety and swimming skills to build confidence, reduce drowning risk and save lives.

Strack & Van Til has supported Crossroads YMCA for many years, and Lambert says: “We are deeply thankful to Strack & Van Til and community members who choose to round up at checkout. What may seem like a small act of generosity can create a life‑changing opportunity for a child to learn how to be safe and confident in the water. Last year, Northern Indiana YMCAs taught more than 7,000 children to swim, equipping them with essential water safety skills and helping build a safer future for families across our Region.”

Of the more than 150,000 individuals the Northern Indiana YMCAs serve, more than 35,000 receive financial assistance, totaling more than $2.5 million in 2025 alone. This makes membership and programs accessible to all and helps support military families.

Continuing its more than 96‑year tradition of philanthropy, Strack & Van Til raises funds through the Checkout Challenge Round Up program to support organizations in the Northwest Indiana communities it serves.

Strack & Van Til President Jeff Strack credits customer generosity and employee commitment for the success of the Checkout Challenge Round Up. “Our stores, with the help of our employees, provide our customers with an outlet to give to some of their favorite local organizations,” he explains. “Our customers are the ones who give back to the community, and we are so grateful for them.”

Participate in Strack & Van Til’s Checkout Challenge Round Up to show your support for YMCAs in your community.

To learn more about Crossroads YMCA, visit crymca.org. For information on Strack & Van Til’s commitment to Northwest Indiana communities, see strackandvantil.com/community.