Recap: Navigating the Pandemic Part 4

On June 25, Community Rec Magazine presented a virtual roundtable that addresses reopening after the COVID-19 crisis, and the drastic operational changes happening across the industry.

The panelists were Jennifer Harrington, the assistant executive director at the Mittleman Jewish Community Center in Portland, Oregon; Matt Hancock, the COO of the YMCA of Greater Tulsa in Tulsa, Oklahoma; and Robin Brothers, the director of Fort Payne Parks and Recreation in Fort Payne, Alabama.

The following is a summary of the top takeaways from the roundtable, including best reopening practices and more:

First Impressions of Reopening

Having members sign up for 45 to 60-minute time slots to be allowed in, and using equipment and participating in classes is an effective way to control the number of people in the building.
Due to state mandates, many organizations’ pools and aquatics amenities are still closed.
Some facilities are limiting group class sizes to one person per 1,000 square feet.
Using basketball courts and other big spaces is a safe option for youth programming and/or child care.

Challenges

The senior population could struggle with using technology to make reservations.
Social distancing and wearing masks could hinder staff members’ ability to develop relationships when a facility first reopens.
Moving group classes to a different location in the building or to a full virtual format could cause some logistical problems — lighting, sound, etc.
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, keep staff morale high can be difficult.

Adapting to the “New Normal”

In-person meetings and time to hang out — with masks, of course — are important for getting staff members used to being back in the building and new ways of operating.
Staff members will have to do tasks outside their job description due to lower numbers.
Have staff members of all levels involved in the decision-making process during reopening — all feedback is important.

Wearing Masks

Follow state guidelines and keep your staff’s safety in mind when deciding whether or not to require staff members to wear masks at all times — this is up to the discretion of each facility.
Depending on how hot the weather is around you, be lenient with staff wearing masks when outside.
In many cases, members are recommended, not required, to wear masks. However, follow state mandates if masks are required when out in public.

Cleanliness Practices

Leave personal cleaning supplies — wipes, spray bottles and hand sanitizer — out so members can clean off their equipment, and put up clear signage that shows where these supplies are.
Visibility while cleaning is paramount to making members feel safe.
Electrostatic cleaning is an extremely effective option for cleaning your facility.

Responding to Negative Feedback

Document state and CDC mandates on signage throughout the facility, where it’s relevant, to help members understand why certain decisions are being made.
Make sure the right staff members are fielding certain complaints or comments.
Be understanding and have a genuine conversation with a member who has a complaint.

To access the on-demand version of this webinar, click here.