People using the cycle machine at Countryside YMCA

How Countryside YMCA Uses Daxko to Strengthen Community Ties and Personalize Engagement

By Becki Irby
Published On May 20, 2025
Updated On Jun 24, 2025

Countryside YMCA, one of the largest and most respected Ys in the nation, is deeply rooted in its mission to foster youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. As the organization expanded its reach, it became clear that traditional communication methods — mass emails, broad announcements, and one-size-fits-all updates — were no longer enough. To truly connect with members and support their journeys, the Y needed a smarter, more personalized way to engage.

With Daxko Engage, the team at Countryside YMCA has redefined how they communicate, focusing on relevance, timeliness, and member-specific value. The result? Deeper connections, stronger program participation, and a more seamless operational flow.

The Challenge: From One-Size-Fits-All to Meaningful Messaging

Countryside YMCA recognized the need to move beyond generic outreach and toward something more tailored. For an organization that serves thousands of members across diverse life stages and interests, sending out a single message to everyone was no longer effective.

The most significant step for us was being able to change how we communicate.

Chris Johnson

Chris Johnson

President and CEO at Countryside YMCA

By implementing Daxko Engage, the Y unlocked powerful segmentation tools that allowed staff to deliver messaging based on age, membership type, engagement history, and more. From parents of preschoolers to active older adults, each group receives updates that resonate with their current needs and lifestyle.

The Solution: Personalization That Makes Members Feel Seen

At the heart of the Y’s mission is human connection — and personalized communication plays a key role in reinforcing that value. Through Daxko Engage, Countryside YMCA can reference details like program interests, family involvement, or past participation to make each message more meaningful.

This level of personalization builds trust and loyalty. Members are more likely to open emails, register for events, and engage in programs when they feel that the organization understands and values them as individuals.

Even the simple fact that we can say, ‘as the parent of a four-year-old’—already they feel more known.

Chris Johnson

Chris Johnson

President and CEO at Countryside YMCA

The Impact: Automation That Supports Deeper Engagement

Managing a large member base requires time and precision. Daxko Engage gives the Countryside YMCA team a way to automate routine touchpoints while keeping communication warm and mission aligned.

Automated campaigns follow up with new members, prompt re-engagement from those who haven’t visited in a while and celebrate milestones like birthdays or membership anniversaries. This ensures consistent outreach without overburdening staff—freeing them to focus on strategic initiatives and community storytelling.

Daxko helps us keep operations seamless so the member experience is uninterrupted.

Chris Johnson

Chris Johnson

President and CEO at Countryside YMCA

Results: Outcomes That Strengthen the Community

With Daxko Engage, Countryside YMCA has seen a measurable shift in member interaction. Email open rates have improved. Program participation has increased. But the most important outcome? A stronger sense of community.

Key results include:

  • Increased email read and click-through rates
  • Higher engagement across targeted campaigns
  • More efficient use of staff time
  • Improved member satisfaction and retention

What started as a tool for communication has evolved into a cornerstone of community connection — one that aligns seamlessly with the Y’s mission and values.

Start Personalizing Your Member Experience Today

Countryside YMCA’s journey with Daxko Engage demonstrates how the right technology can support both operational excellence and authentic community engagement. With personalized messaging, automated outreach, and seamless workflows, Ys across the country can build deeper relationships and drive greater impact. 

See how Daxko Engage can help your Y personalize engagement and increase community connection.