BLOOMINGTON – The Monroe County YMCA is set to host its annual Corporate Challenge, an Olympics-style wellness event for businesses and organizations in Monroe County and surrounding areas, from September 2-12, 2025. This popular event aims to promote employee health and fitness, build community spirit, and boost company morale, all while raising crucial scholarship funds for the Y for All Annual Campaign.
Proceeds from the Corporate Challenge directly support vital community initiatives, including Summer Camp scholarships, free Swim Lessons, and financial assistance for families and seniors needing access to the Y’s programs and memberships. Every dollar raised directly benefits residents of Monroe County.
The 2025 Corporate Challenge features an extensive array of 25 different events, ensuring something for every participant. Activities range from popular choices like Axe Throwing, Cornhole, and Pickleball to Cycling and many more diverse options.
Participation involves an entry fee, which varies depending on the company’s size. Following the initial fee, a “pay as you play” model applies, with each employee paying a per-event cost. All entry and event fees contribute directly to the Y for All Scholarship Fund.
Approximately 30 teams typically participate in the event each year. Past corporate challengers have included prominent local businesses and institutions such as Baxter, Boston Scientific, Catalent, Cook Medical, Cornerstone Information Systems, Ivy Tech, Hoosier Energy, IU Credit Union, IU Foundation, Smithville, Singota Solutions, and Solution Tree.
The competition officially launches on September 2 with the highly anticipated CEO Boat Race at the Southeast Y. In this fan-favorite kick-off, teams of five construct a boat solely from cardboard and duct tape, then race their unique vessels across the YMCA pool. This year, the CEO Boat Race is free and open to Chamber members interested in participating. While extra points are awarded for senior leaders in the boat, any team of enthusiastic individuals from a workplace is welcome to join, even if their company is not fully entering the Corporate Challenge. This offers a great opportunity for organizations to experience a taste of the event.
All participating employees gain unlimited access to both the Northwest and Southeast Y branches throughout the duration of the competition. The YMCA also offers assistance to companies in formulating a participation plan and budget, making it an easy entry for first-time team captains.
New and returning teams, as well as interested organizations, are invited to an informational luncheon to learn more about the 2025 Corporate Challenge. Attendees can ask questions to organizers and other participating teams while enjoying a free lunch.
- What: Informational meeting with free lunch
- Where: Northwest YMCA, 1375 N. Wellness Way, Bloomington, IN 47404
- When: Wednesday, July 30, from 11:45 AM to 1:00 PM
For more detailed information, interested parties can download a copy of the Corporate Challenge handbook or contact Senior Development Director Matt Osgood at 812-961-2169 or mosgood@monroecountyymca.org.
