As summer begins to wind down, we’re taking a moment to reflect on all of the fun, growth, and connection that happened at the Farmington Valley YMCA this summer. Our camps were filled with field trips, swimming, games, friendships and plenty of opportunities for kids to try something new. From the first day of camp to the final week, our campers made memories that will stay with them long after summer is over.
Race4Chase was another summer highlight. This program gives local youth the opportunity to challenge themselves through swimming, biking and running while building confidence, healthy habits and strong relationships with their teammates and coaches. Programs like Race4Chase are a great example of how the Y can help young people discover what they are capable of.
We’re also celebrating an incredible summer for our Farmington Valley YMCA Tsunamis swim team. Our swimmers recently competed at Y Nationals, and we couldn’t be prouder of their accomplishments.
Jack Ackerman became a Y National Champion, taking first place in the 400 freestyle with an impressive time of 4:02.54. Jack also placed second in the 200 freestyle and fourth in the 800 freestyle.
Alexia Radu had two top-10 finishes, placing ninth in both the 100 and 200 breaststroke. Makayla Ellis finished 15th in the 1500 freestyle.
Brianna Laforest placed 16th in the 200 backstroke. In total, 13 individual swims reached an A–D final, and our swimmers represented the Y across 31 individual and relay event entries. Our relay teams also had a strong showing, including a 14th-place finish in the men’s 200 freestyle relay and a 15th-place finish in the men’s 400 freestyle relay. These results reflect the tremendous dedication of our swimmers, coaches and families throughout the year, and we are incredibly proud of the entire team.
The swim team is a great opportunity for young athletes to develop their skills, build confidence, learn about commitment and teamwork and become part of a supportive community. To learn more about joining the team, reach out to Coach Mario at mario.francisco@ghymca.org
Fall always brings a sense of new beginnings, whether it’s a new school year, a new routine, or trying a new program. We have a lot happening this season and hope there is something for every member of your family.
One of the biggest facility projects this fall will be updates to our adult locker rooms. These improvements are part of our ongoing commitment to creating a better experience for our members. We know construction can bring some temporary inconveniences, and we appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding while we work to make these improvements.
We’re also collecting school supplies to help local children start the school year ready to learn. A new school year can be an exciting time, but it can also be a financial challenge for families. Donations from our members and community help make sure more children have the supplies they need to feel prepared and confident on their first day of school.
There are also several programs and events coming up that we hope you’ll add to your fall calendar. We are excited to introduce a new evening option for LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, making it possible for more people to participate in this supportive wellness program. We’re also offering a free adaptive yoga program for ages 13 and up. Both programs are designed to help people find connection, strength and wellness in a welcoming environment. For more information about LIVESTRONG or adaptive yoga, or to register, please contact Willaminah Rey at willaminah.rey@ghymca.org
Our Kids Night Out programs are returning this fall, giving children a fun evening at the Y while parents have the opportunity to enjoy some time for themselves. We’ll have several Kids Night Out opportunities throughout the fall, and families can register online through the YMCA. Be sure to sign up early so your child doesn’t miss out. We’re especially excited that our Big Kid and Middle School Nights Out are free this year thanks to the generous support of a grant. These programs provide older kids with a safe, fun place to spend time with friends, try new activities, and build connections.
For families looking for school-age care, we still have spaces available in our before- and after-school program at the Y. Our program provides children with a safe and engaging place to spend time before and after school while giving parents peace of mind during the workday. As an added benefit, families who enroll their child for five days a week will receive a free family YMCA membership for the school year. It’s a great way for the whole family to take advantage of the Y while your child is part of our school-age program.
And, of course, save Oct. 23 for Halloween at the Y! We’re looking forward to another fun, family-friendly evening at the Y with activities for the whole community. More details will be coming soon, but mark your calendar now so you don’t miss it.
As the season changes, we’re grateful for the opportunity to be part of the lives of so many families. The Y is more than a place to work out or a place for children to attend programs. It is a place to find support, build relationships, try something new and feel connected to your community.