TULSA, Okla. — Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. and other Cherokee Nation leaders gathered with the YMCA of Greater Tulsa Monday to sign an agreement launching the Public Health and Wellness Fitness Partners Program which pays up to $175,000 in gym membership fees for Cherokee Nation citizens.
"Through this partnership with the YMCA of Greater Tulsa, we are creating meaningful opportunities for Cherokee families to prioritize their health and well-being,” Chief Hoskin said. “This initiative demonstrates the power of community collaboration and ensures all our citizens, regardless of location, have access to resources that support their fitness and overall wellness goals."
The YMCA of Greater Tulsa locations participating in the program include Owasso Family YMCA, Tandy Family YMCA, W.L. Hutcherson Family YMCA, Daily Family YMCA, Herman and Kate Kaiser YMCA, R.C. Dickenson Family YMCA and the Anne and Henry Zarrow YMCA.
The YMCA of Greater Tulsa has identified at least 350 Cherokee Nation citizens who already use the facilities.
“We are so grateful to the Cherokee Nation for the opportunity to expand access and service,” said Jeff Heeley, Chief Operations Officer of the YMCA of Greater Tulsa. “At the YMCA, we’re committed to strengthening community through programs that support a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Partnerships like this make that mission possible, helping us reduce barriers and reach more individuals and families.”
Other gyms who have pilot programs include Pryor Creek Recreation Center, Grand Lake Family YMCA, The Richard Kane YMCA of Bartlesville, Muskogee Swim and Fitness Center and now the YMCA of Greater Tulsa, with others coming on board.
Non-profit gyms in and around Cherokee Nation can reach out to learn more about the Fitness Partners Program by emailing
For Cherokee Nation citizens wanting to join the YMCA of Greater Tulsa or questions can visit the website at www.ymcatulsa.org.