Community Corner
North Suburban YMCA honors Illinois Bone and Joint Institute
IBJI recognized at the Illinois State Alliance Conference with the Alliance Impact Partner of the Year Award

Northbrook, IL November 2024– The North Suburban YMCA (NSYMCA) is excited to announce that its valued partner, Illinois Bone and Joint Institute (IBJI), was honored with the Illinois State Alliance Impact Partner of the Year award at the yearly Fall Rally, last month. This recognition highlights IBJI’s exceptional commitment to supporting the health and wellness of the community through its partnership with the NSYMCA.
IBJI, a leading provider of orthopedic care and sports medicine, has been an integral part of the North Suburban YMCA’s efforts to promote fitness, education, and overall well-being.
“We are thrilled to see IBJI receive this well-deserved honor,” said Kathy Fielding, CEO of the North Suburban YMCA. “Our partnership has truly strengthened our ability to serve the health and wellness needs of our community and their dedication to education and care in the orthopedic industry, aligns perfectly with our mission to promote healthy living.”
As part of the recognition, IBJI has played a pivotal role in supporting the Y’s various fitness and injury prevention programs including the Y’s YMCA Education Series (Y.E.S.) and the Balance Strong * Live Long Program. Both programs are free to the community and wouldn’t be possible without support from businesses like IBJI.
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In its first year, the Balance Strong* Live Long program is an hour-long interactive program created in conjunction with the Northbrook Fire Department, IBJI and the North Suburban YMCA. The presentation is tailored to help individuals build strength, improve balance, and reduce the risk of falls – a leading concern among older adults. Balance Strong * Live Long is a traveling presentation and has visited senior centers in the Northbrook and Northfield areas with plans to expand its reach in 2025.
“We are honored to be recognized by Y-USA and value our partnership with the North Suburban YMCA,” said Laurie Jensen, Marketing Manager for Illinois Bone and Joint Institute. “Our partnership reflects our shared commitment to helping people live healthier, more active lives and we truly believe in community involvement,” continues Jensen. “The Balance Strong * Live Long program is just one of many collaborative ideas that have come out of our partnership with the Y and I can’t wait to see what else we can do together in the coming years!”
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This award underscores the importance of collaborative partnerships within the non-profit world in creating a healthier and more connected community. IBJI’s continued support will help the North Suburban YMCA expand its offerings and continue to be a resource for individuals and families striving to improve their overall physical and mental health.
For more information about the North Suburban YMCA and its programs, please visit nsymca.org or contact Kim Nyren, Director of Community Investment at knyren@nsymca.org
About the North Suburban YMCA
The North Suburban YMCA services Northbrook and 14 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help its residents become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community.
About Illinois Bone and Joint Institute
Illinois Bone and Joint Institute (IBJI) is one of the largest and most respected orthopedic and sports medicine providers in the region. Offering specialized care in areas such as joint replacement, spine care, and rehabilitation, IBJI is committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care to help patients lead active and fulfilling lives.