The world is a different place than it was just a few weeks ago. Common gathering spots, like the Y, houses of worship and schools are closed, leaving many to look for ways to be supported and connected.
In the 168 years that the YMCA of Greater Hartford has served the Hartford region, our mission has been to adapt to meet the current needs of our community. This year is no different. As an organization of staff and volunteers that work to support and connect communities, we knew we had to find a way to keep that mission going.
That is why, even with our doors closed, the Y continues to provide necessary resources to support the individual and family. As a branch of the YMCA of Greater Hartford, the Farmington Valley YMCA is offering free, exclusive content not just to our members, but to all people within the communities we serve. From daily workouts to family activities, we have so much for you and your family to do while you are home.
For our Y members, we have created Y at Home and private Facebook groups where people can come together and share pictures of their hikes, funny memes about distance learning, and just commiserate about missing one another. Even though our 49th Annual Granby Road Race was postponed until September, we are holding our first ever Virtual Road Race May 1–3. Runners from more than 10 states and multiple countries will participate alongside Granby runners.
When the Red Cross had a need, the Farmington Valley YMCA responded by hosting two blood drives in April. With the local food banks being used more than ever, the Farmington Valley YMCA responded with food drives. We knew the strong and connected Y community would support these needs.
For the larger community, the Y will continue to post resources on its branch Facebook pages and public YouTube channel. YouTube content includes youth and family activities, group exercise, workout and health tips, learn to swim on land, senior exercise and more. In the coming weeks, we’ll expand our offerings to include educational childcare activities, virtual coffee hours, and more.
Be sure to mark your calendars for these upcoming events: Bike for the Battle on Saturday, Sept. 12, and the 49th Annual Granby Road Race on Saturday, Sept. 19.