Showing posts with label ymca. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ymca. Show all posts

Saturday, March 16, 2024

Hockomock Area YMCA shares Tyler's story to highlight the support they provide (video)

Hockomock Area YMCA shares video of the support they provide:

"VIDEO link ≈ https://t.co/TtpS9vNn05  
Watch the moving story of Tyler and his family. We're here to help individuals and families in need of an immediate safety net. 
None of this support is possible without the generosity of all who support our Campaign. #BeCauseY #YForAll #ReachOut"

To contribute to the cause -> https://www.hockymca.org/our-cause/give/



Friday, February 2, 2024

Hockomock Area YMCA introduces new outdoor tree-climbing elements to enhance youth programming in Franklin

The Bernon Family Branch of the Hockomock Area YMCA has installed new outdoor tree-climbing elements as an enhancement to its outdoor challenge course in Franklin. The new climbing elements were funded by a generous donation from longtime Y supporters Paula Rooney and Gerry Shaw, and will be used extensively in spring and summer 2024 with youth participating in the Y’s Before & After School Care and Summer Camp programs, as well as local school groups visiting the Y.

outdoor tree-climbing elements
outdoor tree-climbing elements

In late August, the Franklin Y installed Monkey Hardware systems on trees on its property, each providing a different climbing level of accessibility. These kits effectively turn the trees into climbing walls and are paired with the TRUBLUE iQ auto belay system. The TRUBLUE auto belays allow climbers of all ages and skill levels to climb heights safely. Rather than pulling the young climber upwards, they allow climbers to ascend the tree on their own power, while providing rest as needed during the climb with its catch and hold technology. Once the climber has reached the top of the climb they have chosen, the auto belays use magnetic braking technology to lower the climber back down slowly and safely to the ground. 

The Monkey Hardware and TRUBLUE auto belays have received rave reviews from Y summer campers. "These new elements have brought the kids together in a new way that I have not seen in a long time. When a camper was climbing their whole group would be watching and cheering them on to reach the top," said Ashley Dumas, Youth Program Director at the Bernon Family Branch.  "It gave the kids something to work towards and accomplish. It was amazing watching the campers challenge themselves to make it higher than they did last time or try a harder climb."

The Hockomock Y is grateful for this generous donation made possible by Paula Rooney and Gerry Shaw. The Franklin Y's camp and playing fields also feature Gramdma's Place, an outdoor pavilion with weatherproof tables and seating, which was built with funds donated by the Rooney & Shaw family.

"From their decades in leadership at Dean College in Franklin to their contributions as Board members of our Hockomock Area YMCA, Paula Rooney and Gerry Shaw have a long history of supporting youth and families in the Franklin community," said Jim Downs, Hockomock Area YMCA CEO. "Our Y staff and members are so appreciative that they continue to find new ways to enhance operations at our Y and help us provide an even better experience for the youth we serve."

The Hockomock Area YMCA is currently accepting camp registrations for the 2024 camp season.  To view offerings and to register, visit: https://www.hockymca.org/camp


About The Hockomock Area YMCA
Where Cause Meets Community. At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility. 

Our YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities we are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable cause-driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and Mansfield. For more information, visit hockymca.org.

Thursday, January 4, 2024

It’s all on the line… and now it’s your turn = register for the Free Throw Contest, Jan 13

Contestants and Parents Join Us at This Year’s
FREE THROW CONTEST

Date: Saturday, January 13, 2024 - 9-11 AM 

Location: Hockomock YMCA, 45 Forge Hill Road Franklin
 
Ages: Boys and Girls (9-14) Accompanied by A Parent


Great fun for contestants and fans. Winners will be declared after shooting sessions and invited to participate at the District Competitions!

Do you have what it takes?  Join us for this fun and rewarding event!!!

Download the flyer as a reminder or to share ->

Thursday, December 21, 2023

Town Council closes out calendar year multiple resolutions and recognition of Ken Norman (video)

The Town Council met as scheduled on Dec 20, 2023. This was their last meeting of the calendar year. Several key items of business were closed out, recognition was given to Ken Norman for his service on Board of Assessors and other committees, and many wishes for happy holidays, new year, etc. were extended.

The Council will begin work on January 3, 2024 with a session that includes setting goals and objectives for the next two years.

Board of Assessors Chair Chris Feeley presenting the ToF  proclamation to Ken Norman
Board of Assessors Chair Chris Feeley presenting the ToF  proclamation to Ken Norman

Ken posing with State Representative Jeff Roy
Ken posing with State Representative Jeff Roy


Quick recap:
  • Proclamation: William “Ken” Norman - Ken was recognized with a Town proclamation and State House of Representative resolution for many years of service on the Board of Assessors (16 years) and many other committees.
  • 2024 Annual Alcohol License Renewals - all approved, 8 being held for payment and final inspection completion
  • Resolution 23-71: Town Council Approval of County ARPA Funds - Council approved application to Norfolk County for ARPA awards in the total amount of $1,359,000
    • Police Dept - $559,000
    • Sewer projects - $500,000
    • Franklin Food Pantry - $100,000
    • SAFE Coalition - $100,000
    • YMCA Bernon Family Branch - $100,000
  • ARPA Direct funds announced for
    • $1M to reconstruct Baron Road
    • $420,000 for replacement & construction of visitor bleachers at the high school field
  • Bylaw Amendment 23-902: A Bylaw to Amend the Code of the Town of Franklin by Inserting Chapter 147, Snow and Ice, Removal Of - Second Reading - approved by 7-2 vote (Jones, Dellorco voted no)
  • Bylaw Amendment 23-903: A Bylaw to Amend the code of the Town of Franklin at Chapter 82, Fees, Municipal Service - Second Reading - mattress fee raised to $65, unanimously approved (9-0)
  • Resolution 23-72: Davis-Thayer Building Reuse Advisory Committee Charge - Extension of Committee Terms and Deadline to Make Final Report - 
  • Resolution 23-73: Revised 2024 Town Council Meeting Schedule
  • Resolution 23-74: Receipts Reserved for Appropriation Transportation Network Companies (TNC) Ride Assessment Transfer and Appropriation - new MA General Law requirements for separate transaction to make this accounting for approx. $7,000 complete
  • Resolution 23-75: Gift Acceptance - Police Dept. ($5,000), Veterans’ Services Dept. ($3,145) & Senior Center ($200) - community continues to be generous, thank you
  • Resolution 23-76: Cable Funds in Support of PEG Service and Programming per MGL Ch. 44,§53F3/4 - quarterly transfer also per MA General Law requirements to account for the fund transfer - for which Franklin TV & Radio very much appreciates as it allows them to provide the broadcast services for Town & School meetings, School sporting events, and for which community does benefit


My notes captured during the meeting via Twitter and collected in one PDF ->

Additional photos of the recognition ->   https://photos.app.goo.gl/kRuMhZWFWMazjjfG6



Monday, November 20, 2023

Contestants and Parents Join Us at This Year’s KoC Free Throw Contest - Jan 13, 2024

Contestants and Parents Join Us at This Year’s Free Throw Contest

Great fun for contestants and fans. 

Winners will be declared after shooting sessions and invited to participate at the District Competitions!

Do you have what it takes?

Join us for this fun and rewarding event!!!

Date: Saturday January 13, 2024 - 9-11 AM 
Location: Hockomock YMCA, 45 Forge Hill Road Franklin 
Ages: Boys and Girls (9-14) Accompanied by A Parent - Register ->
 https://kofc1847.org/basketball-free-throw-contest





Contestants and Parents Join Us at This Year’s KoC Free Throw Contest - Jan 13, 2024
Contestants and Parents Join Us at This Year’s KoC Free Throw Contest - Jan 13, 2024


Friday, August 25, 2023

Mindfulness for kids program scheduled by Hockomock YMCA North Attleboro

"Sign up today for our 6-week program, Mindfulness for Kids! Class will be held on Tuesdays from 5:30 - 6:30 PM at our Hurley Family Branch. (North Attleboro) 
If you have any questions, please reach out to Brynne Kirwan at brynnek@hockymca.org"

https://bit.ly/YMindfulness
Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/CwTnRrYshBZ/

Mindfulness for kids program scheduled by Hockomock YMCA North Attleboro
Mindfulness for kids program scheduled by Hockomock YMCA North Attleboro

Saturday, July 29, 2023

Volunteer for the Hockomock Area YMCA 8th Annual Backpack Drive - sign up now!

Hockomock Area YMCA (@HockomockYMCA) tweeted on Fri, Jul 28, 2023:
"Meet new friends and be part of something bigger than yourself! Sign up today as a volunteer in our 8th annual backpack drive. 
The children you help through this project will be filled with hope, joy, and excitement as they start the school year. "
https://t.co/XXRKhekOBX

Volunteer for the Hockomock Area YMCA 8th Annual Backpack Drive - sign up now!
Volunteer for the Hockomock Area YMCA 8th Annual Backpack Drive - sign up now!

Monday, July 24, 2023

Hockomock Area YMCA receives $20,000 grant to educate and provide mental health trainings for staff

The Hockomock Area YMCA announced it received a $20,000 grant from the MetroWest Health Foundation to help address mental health challenges. 

The 1-year grant will be used to develop opportunities and trainings aimed at educating YMCA staff around creating a culture where mental health discussion is encouraged. Funding will provide Mental Health First Aid Training for Hockomock Y staff and also support a communication campaign to staff, volunteers and members around the Y’s commitment to address mental health. Staff will learn tools and overall strategies to better support mental health among youth.  
Hockomock Area YMCA
Hockomock Area YMCA

"Our YMCA is thrilled to have the longstanding support of the Metrowest Health Foundation as we continue to grow our Mental Health Programming and supports. During our six months of strategic planning, Mental Health was discussed as the top priority for all populations in each outreach session,” comments Jim Downs, CEO of the Hockomock Area YMCA. “A set of strategic goals arose from this process, with one of them addressing the evolution of our YMCA’s mental health support for all ages in the communities we serve. We recognize that education and normalizing the conversation about mental health is of the utmost importance for every individual in and outside of our YMCA branches. Specifically, education and empowerment of staff around the topic of mental health is imperative for the youth and individuals we support.”

The grant is in response to the 2020 MetroWest Adolescent Health Survey that found 13% of youth reported feeling depressive symptoms in the past year and 11% had seriously considered suicide in their lifetime.  

For more information on the YMCA’s efforts around Mental Health, please contact Brynne Kirwan, LCSW, at brynnek@hockymca.org.

About Hockomock Area YMCA:
At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility. 

Our YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities we are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable cause-driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and Mansfield. For more information visit hockymca.org

Friday, July 14, 2023

Hockomock Area YMCA Invites Businesses and Individuals to Pitch in and Support the Y’s 8th Annual Community Backpack Drive

Operation Backpack is now underway at the Hockomock Area YMCA and seeks the support of local businesses and individuals. Committed to building healthy, confident, connected, and secure children and strengthening the community, the YMCA has a hefty goal of 3,000 fully stocked backpacks delivered before the fall school year begins. 
 
Support the Y’s 8th Annual Community Backpack Drive
Support Community Backpack Drive

“Convening donors and volunteers to support area families in need reflects our Y’s commitment to serve and strengthen our communities together,” says Jim Downs, CEO of the Hockomock Area YMCA. “Having access to backpacks and supplies is integral to a student’s success. As many families in our area face financial difficulties, we want to make sure that all kids have the supplies they need to start the upcoming school year off right.”  
 
New supplies and backpacks are requested now through August 4th. The Backpack Drive is a collaborative effort made possible by the YMCA staff, program participants, partners, and neighbors to provide kids with the confidence that comes when boys and girls are able to go to school prepared. 

Donation bins are located at all Hockomock Area YMCA facilities: Invensys Foxboro Branch, 67 Mechanic Street, Foxborough; Bernon Family Branch, 45 Forge Hill Road, Franklin; Mansfield Arts & Education Center, 40 Balcom Street, Mansfield; and Hurley Family Branch, 300 Elmwood Street, North Attleboro.  

“Fulfilling our mission is only possible because of dedicated staff, volunteers, donors and partners who support our cause of enhancing lives and enriching communities,” adds Downs. “Your support with this Backpack Drive will help children and neighbors in need in our 15 town service area.”  

Community members who would like to sponsor the Backpack Drive are asked to contact Patrick Murphy at 508-643-5262 or via email at patrickm@hockymca.org. Sponsorship levels range from $500–which will provide 20 backpacks to students in need–through Presenting Sponsor at $10,000, which is a giving level ensuring that 500 children will receive needed supplies. Be sure to inquire about all sponsorship levels by contacting the Y today. 

In addition to monetary donations, the Y is requesting the following supplies: backpacks for all ages including pre-k, elementary, middle school, and high school, pencils and colored pencils, highlighters, binders, washable markers, rulers, crayons, glue sticks, spiral notebooks, pencil cases, lunch boxes, and scissors. The drive’s Amazon wish list is available at bit.ly/BackpackWishList23 and complete details are available at hockymca.org/backpack-drive.  
 
If a member of your family or someone you know needs a backpack, a request form can be found online at hockymca.org/backpack-drive.  
 
About Hockomock Area YMCA: 
Where Cause Meets Community.  At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening the community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility.  
 
Our YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities we are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable cause-driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and Mansfield. For more information, visit hockymca.org.

Tuesday, May 23, 2023

Update on Y pool fire - not to open this year

Monday, May 22, 2023

Due to the extensive damages from Saturday’s fire and the information we’ve gathered in the last 48 hours regarding the reopening process, the timeline to complete the necessary repairs would make it impossible to open our Family Pool Club in time for the 2023 summer season. We are deeply saddened by this fire and its devastation.

We are committed to the Club’s rebuild and creating the best member experience possible, opening in June 2024.

Family Pool Club members will receive full refunds on all fees paid by May 26th.

Thank you for your confidence in our YMCA – even in the face of adversity – to continue to deliver our mission to be here for our neighbors, serve our communities, and come back even stronger from this unfortunate incident.

Sincerely,
Jim Downs
CEO, Hockomock Area YMCA

Pool Club questions are to be directed to poolclub@hockymca.org.

Monday, May 22, 2023

Fire at YMCA's new Family Pool Club at Park Terrace in Plainville


YMCA Image

MEMBER UPDATE

HOCKOMOCK AREA YMCA

Dear Members,

We regret to inform our members and the community that our YMCA's new Family Pool Club @ Park Terrace in Plainville caught fire yesterday afternoon. The main clubhouse building experienced significant damage.  No one was in the building at the time and we are thankful that no injuries were reported.  We are grateful to the Plainville Fire Department who led the efforts, along with mutual aid from other local fire agencies, to suppress the fire.

The facility was under final renovations and preparations for its opening in June. We acquired the property earlier this year and significant construction and renovations were underway in anticipation of re-opening the facility for the summer season. The swim club is situated on 10.5 acres in a park-like setting at 5 Berry Street, Plainville. 

As a local community centerpiece for family fun for decades, everyone at the Hockomock Area YMCA was excited and energized for the re-opening of this Plainville summer landmark.

 

We are deeply saddened by this fire and its devastation. We are fully supporting and cooperating with the Town of Plainville and the Plainville Fire Department as they conduct a fire investigation.

 

Our YMCA's hope and expectation is to rebuild. While we don't know the timeline and details at this very moment, we are dedicated and committed to this wonderful local recreational treasure. More information will be shared as it becomes available.

Thank you for your confidence in our YMCA – even in the face of adversity – to continue to deliver our mission to be here for our neighbors, serve our communities, and come back even stronger from this unfortunate incident.

jim-downs

Jim Downs
CEO
Hockomock Area YMCA

Visit our website for more information -> https://www.hockymca.org/fire-statement/


HOCKOMOCK AREA YMCA 
Foxboro, Franklin, North Attleboro, Mansfield, Plainville, MA

Saturday, May 20, 2023

Register Today for the Hockomock Y "Choose Love Event" at Gillette Stadium - May 24



Thursday, May 18, 2023

Franklin Food Service Team recognized with Hockomock YMCA’s Red Triangle Award

Congratulations to the Franklin Food Service Team for being the recipient of the Hockomock YMCA’s Red Triangle Award! We are so proud of the work you do each and every day!

Shared from -> https://twitter.com/DrTinaRogers/status/1658970253244653568 

Franklin Food Service Team recognized with Hockomock YMCA’s Red Triangle Award
Franklin Food Service Team recognized with Hockomock YMCA’s Red Triangle Award

Monday, May 15, 2023

Hockomock Area YMCA: Free registration for the Choose Love Event on May 24

Scarlett Lewis, Choose Love Movement founder, will speak at a Choose Love Event sponsored by the Hockomock Area YMCA on May 24, 2023 from 6:30 to 8 PM at the Putnam Club, Gillette Stadium. The community is invited to attend this free event, ages 15+ are welcome. While this event is free, registration is required at www.hockymca.org/choose-love-event.

The Hockomock Area YMCA is hosting this event at no cost to the community, in celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month and the Y’s commitment to mental well-being. At this event,   Scarlett Lewis will share how the Choose Love Formula can change your life, improve communities & cultures of groups, and promote a more loving world.  “We are thrilled to be bringing Scarlett Lewis to our community to share her journey and encourage all of us to Choose Love,” says Jim Downs, CEO of the Hockomock Area YMCA.  

Scarlett Lewis will share her journey in overcoming the tragedy, and encourage everyone to Choose Love as a response to adversity and challenges. Scarlett is a world-renowned speaker and leading advocate for character social emotional development. In 2022, Scarlett was named to Bloomberg Businessweek’s 2022 Bloomberg 50, and was a featured speaker at the New York Times DealBook Summit 2022. In 2021, Scarlett was named a Forbes 50 over 50 Impact Honoree.

Scarlett Lewis, founder and Chief Movement Officer of Choose Love, will share her inspiring story journey to become part of the solution in making the world a safer and more peaceful place after her son’s death at Sandy Hook in 2012. 

“I decided to be part of the solution to the issues that we’re seeing in our society—and that also caused the tragedy. I created programs that teach children and adults how to manage their emotions, feel connected, and have healthy relationships,“ said Lewis. “If we can teach our children that they have the power to choose a loving thought over an angry thought, we can create a more peaceful world.”

The Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement is a global nonprofit that provides Character Social Emotional Development programs for schools, homes, communities, and the workplace. Choose Love programs serve more than 3.5 million children in over 11,500 schools across the U.S. and 120 countries.

The community is encouraged to register for this free event at www.hockymca.org/choose-love-event.


About The Hockomock Area YMCA
Where Cause Meets Community. At the Hockomock Area YMCA, strengthening community is our cause. The Hockomock Area YMCA is an organization of men, women, and children sharing a commitment to nurture the potential of kids, promote healthy living, and foster a sense of social responsibility. 

Our YMCA is committed to partnering and collaborating with others to create and deliver lasting personal and social change in the 15 communities we are privileged to serve. The Hockomock Area YMCA is a not-for-profit charitable cause-driven organization with facilities in North Attleboro, Foxboro, Franklin, and Mansfield. For more information, visit hockymca.org.

About The Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement™
Jesse Lewis, a six-year-old first grader, was a victim of the Sandy Hook tragedy whose action saved the lives of nine classmates. Jesse left behind a message on a household chalkboard, “Nurturing Healing Love,” that became the inspiration for his mother, Scarlett, to found the Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement. 

The Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization with a commitment to reach students, educators and individuals, nationally and internationally, and provide them with a simple, yet profound formula for choosing love. Choose Love programs are free and teach essential life skills to children and adults. It has grown organically, one person at a time over the last ten years, and now reaches 3.5 million children and adults in over 120 countries. Scarlett Lewis’ vision is to reach and positively impact 25 million people by 2025. 
Register for the free "Choose Love" event hosted by the Hockomock Y at Gillette Stadium - May 24
Register for the free "Choose Love" event hosted by the Hockomock Y at Gillette Stadium - May 24

Sunday, May 7, 2023

Register for the free "Choose Love" event hosted by the Hockomock Y at Gillette Stadium - May 24

Join us at on Wed, May 24 at 6:30 pm to hear Scarlett Lewis, founder of the Choose Love Movement, share her journey & encourage us all to Choose Love as a response to adversity & challenges. Free event, open to all. Ages 15+.  
Register at https://www.hockymca.org/choose-love-event/
Register for the free "Choose Love" event hosted by the Hockomock Y at Gillette Stadium - May 24
Register for the free "Choose Love" event hosted by the Hockomock Y at Gillette Stadium - May 24


The Choose Love Movement is a global nonprofit providing Character Social Emotional Development programs for communities, schools, homes, and the workplace. This event is sponsored by our YMCA at no cost to the community due to the philanthropic support of our partners and the Y’s commitment to mental well-being. Join us for this important community event. Questions about this event, please email Brynne Kirwan, LCSW at brynnek@hockymca.org. Learn about Scarlett’s journey and her mission to encourage everyone to Choose Love.