TOGETHER NEVER MATTERED MORE.
YMCA News | Winter | February 2022 View as Webpage
CEO Update
Dear YMCA Friends,

I know I'm not the only one looking back at the last two years seeing life lessons and silver linings. For me and our YMCA teams, it comes back to a simple, meaningful message that I've been repeating even before the onset of the pandemic: We are stronger together.  

These words have guided our work through a merger in 2019, bringing two Ys together to make a greater impact for all, and have prepared us to be resilient and adaptable to the many adversities of the public health crisis.

We know we are not alone in our efforts to help others and strengthen lives. We also know that we can always count on the many members, volunteers, staff, partners and supporters to be here for us—just like those who count on the Y know they are not alone. Because of generous donors, no one is turned away for the inability to pay for access to child care, fitness programs, mental health services, and more. 

With 2022 well underway, our Y is busy planning continuing seasons of service and social good for all who need us. I invite you to learn more about our Annual Campaign that brings together helping hands from our greater community to support our neighbors and ensure the Y is here for all. 

Stronger Together,
Laurie Goganzer, President & CEO
YMCA of Greater Monmouth County
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
YOU'RE INVITED: HELP OUR YMCA KICK OFF THE ANNUAL CAMPAIGN!
Everyone has heard of the Y for swim and gym. But there’s so much more than many people realize. From exercise to mental well-being, from jumping rope to college-readiness, from preschool to preventive health, the Y doesn’t just strengthen mind and bodies. It strengthens communities. 
 
Come visit our YMCA staff at Annual Campaign Kickoff events to learn more about the Y’s impact in our communities and how you can help make a difference!

> Fri., 3/4, 11:30 a.m. at Red Bank Family YMCA
> Mon., 3/7, 12 p.m. at Old Bridge Family YMCA
> Wed., 3/9, 12 p.m. at Freehold Family YMCA

RSVP today to giving@ymcanj.org, 732-671-5505, ext. 120 or let our YMCA Welcome Desk team know you'll be there! 
HEALTHY LIVING
FIND YOUR FUN AT THE Y!
At the Y, kids of all ages and interests find their fun, their friends and their game! Registration is open for all new Spring 1 YMCA youth programs, running February. 28-April 24.

> KinderGym, 2-4 years
> All Star Sports, 5-7 years
> Basketball Clinics, 7-12 years
> Swim Lessons, 6 months-12+ years

The Y is here to help all kids reach their full potential. Ask us about financial assistance for those who qualify.
TOGETHER, FOR HOPE & MENTAL HEALTH
Thanks to all who supported our annual, collaborative Hearts of Hope Breakfast! Together with our mental health partners, Collier Youth Services, Family & Children's Service, Hope for Children Foundation and Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide, we are transforming the lives of over 19,500 individuals who count on us to cope and heal through crisis.

Hear how your support is giving strength and hope.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
SUMMER ADVENTURE AT
THE Y IS CALLING
At Y day camp, kids make new friends and have tons of fun as they explore new adventures each day. They come away with new skills, confidence and friendships that broaden their perspectives and strengthen their character.

View flier and register now for YMCA summer fun throughout greater Monmouth County running June 27-August 26 with enrichment and fun for ages 3-15.

Join us for St. Patrick's Day family fun at YMCA Camp Zehnder on Sat., March 12 for Shamrocks & Smiles to benefit camp scholarships!
JUMP IN FOR GREATER MONMOUTH Y SWIM TEAM TRYOUTS
Dive in at the Y for high-performing youth swim competition. Our nationally-acclaimed Greater Monmouth Y swim team nurtures a love of swimming through a supportive community of coaches, parent volunteers, and partners that take our team to state and national levels time and again. Learn about our swim team achievements and join our tryouts for new swimmers:

> Sat, March 19, 12:30 p.m. at YMCA Camp Zehnder
> Sun., March 20, 12:30 p.m. at Old Bridge Family YMCA
STEP UP FOR YOUTH AT THE
RED BANK 5K CLASSIC & KIDS FUN RUN
The annual Red Bank Classic 5K is returning on Saturday, June 18, 2022, and generously supports youth programs at the YMCA.

Read our news and register now to join thousands of runners in downtown Red Bank for the race, and after parties, family events, and community fun. The Kids Fun Run welcomes littles to join in the racing safely, too.
GIVING BACK
SPRING GOLF TEES UP
SUMMER CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS
A day of golf tees up the BEST SUMMER EVER for kids who need help most! Join the Y on the links May 16 at Eagle Oaks Golf & Country Club to benefit camp scholarships and summer fun that help kids thrive. Become a sponsor today!

For more information, email giving@ymcanj.org or call 732-671-5505, ext. 120
FEB. TOGETHERHOOD®
NOURISHES OUR NEIGHBORS
Food continues to be an urgent need in our greater community. Join our Y Togetherhood team in nourishing neighbors this month, to benefit Lunch Break, Old Bridge Food Bank and St. Luke's Food Ministry.

Drop non-perishable donations to our lobby bins at YMCAs in Freehold, Old Bridge and Red Bank by Feb. 26. View our Flier for requested items, and learn more about giving back with the Y.
IN THE NEWS
PANCAKES & PRACTICE WITH SWIMSWAM NEWS & GREATER MONMOUTH Y SWIM TEAM
BIG THANKS to Coleman Hodges of SwimSwam News for visiting our Y's swim practice and capturing our Greater Monmouth Y swim team's passion for being the best in class.

We are so proud of our team and esteemed coaches, Tom, Brian, Jack, Paul, Jim, Lynn, Sasha, Joan, Dave and Bonni, and parent volunteers who give all they have to our swimmers.
FIND YOUR PURPOSE. JOIN OUR Y TEAM!
Imagine being a part of one of the most respected human services organizations in the world—a place where your work is building a better future for yourself and your community.

We're hiring positions in child care, camp, counseling, facilities, aquatics, membership, and more! Learn more about our inspiring team, and apply today for open YMCA jobs that transform lives.
STAY CONNECTED | WINTER WEATHER UPDATES
Winter weather is here. Be safe and stay connected to the latest weather-related news at all Y locations:

> Online at ymcanj.org/weather
HERE FOR ALL. HERE FOR GOOD. The YMCA of Greater Monmouth County is a cause-driven 501(c)(3) charitable organization that believes everyone, regardless of age, income or background, should have the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. For more information about financial assistance or to make a tax-deductible donation, please call 732.671.5505, ext. 120 or visit ymcanj.org/donate.