Bolstering the Ranks: How to Prep for an Increase in Usage

During the summer, your facility will see an increase in usage as kids are out of school and families are taking advantage of aquatics amenities to stay cool. For everyone’s safety, it’s important to evaluate your staff’s availability and reinforce risk management precautions to account for this influx of members.

“We generally see about a 20 to 25% increase in general usage, in addition to approximately 500-plus youth who participate in our summer camp and swim programs,” said Lauren Ross, the vice president and COO at the Barshop Jewish Community Center.

Most community rec centers offer summer camps and see an increased interest in aquatics programming during the summer, whether it be swim lessons, competitive swim leagues or pure recreational use. You may be faced with the decision to hire additional part-time staff members, or increase the hours of current staff.

Because of their summer programming, Ross elaborated the need for hiring additional staff. “We would not be able to effectively manage and implement our summer programs and services without hiring additional summer seasonal staff,” she said.

By making the decision to hire seasonal staff, Ross is able to ensure staff members are well taken care of, and are able to promote safety and an enjoyable summer experience for members.

While summer programs are a hit at the Barshop J, Ross finds the increased summer usage does not affect much of the fitness class scheduling. “Our general Group X fitness class schedule remains moderately consistent throughout the year,” she said.

Having a consistent Group X schedule during the summer is beneficial in delivering a consistently great experience to an increased number of members participating in summer programming. In addition to making sure facilities are clean, safe and operational, Ross suggests finding a balance. “It is important to manage the balance between needs and wants when it comes to accommodating members and participants,” she said. “Evaluate what is realistic, achievable and manageable.”