Twenty years ago on April 1, 2003, the Farmington Valley YMCA moved from its Simsbury office to 97 Salmon Brook Street in Granby. With that move, the Y was able to expand its reach into the community, and touch many more lives than ever before.
We have helped thousands of people improve their lives. We have welcomed generations of families into ours. Cancer survivors have thrived. Children have gained confidence. Lives were saved because our staff taught our members to swim. We have raised millions of dollars to provide financial assistance to those who need us the most. Milestones have been reached in so many ways, but most importantly, our community has been strengthened!
The YMCA has been serving the Farmington Valley for well over 100 years, and it has continued to evolve to meet community needs. From our small office space in Simsbury where we planned family programs, youth sports, day camp and child care in and around the valley to our current facility, the Y has been a constant in our community. The Y has found its home in Granby and has continued its long-standing tradition of serving the valley.
With the onset of spring, we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead for our members and our community. We have programs and activities for all ages including indoor and outdoor sports, pickleball for seniors, climbing classes, group exercise classes for all fitness levels, pick-up basketball, and aquatics programs for infants through adults. During the recent school break, we provided a free Safety Around Water program because drowning is the number one cause of death for children in the U.S., and we want to help keep our kids safe.
On May 6 we look forward to the annual running of the Granby Road Race, and continuing this storied tradition. As we continue to move forward after the pandemic, we want to make sure we give children the opportunity to connect at day camp. Camp Farmington Valley gives kids the opportunity to make new friends, share new experiences, and build the confidence they need to grow into well rounded young adults.
All of these programs are available to everyone in our community regardless of their ability to pay. As a charitable organization, the Y works with our volunteers and donors to raise the funds needed to provide financial assistance to those in need. When you need the Y, the Y will be there for you.
We want to make sure we are providing programs and services that meet the needs of you and your family. We want to hear from you. Email us at farmingtonvalleyymca@ghymca.org and let us know how we can be there for you. Thank you, Granby, for becoming our home 20 years ago. Here’s to the next 20 years and beyond!