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| Dear South Shore YMCA Supporter, From all of us here at the South Shore YMCA, we wish you a happy and healthy New Year! We want to thank you for all of your support throughout 2016, which has allowed us to continue making a positive impact in the South Shore community. The new year brings with it a major milestone for the South Shore YMCA, our 125th anniversary! We look forward to celebrating and sharing with you our rich history and longstanding impact in the communities we serve. As the year comes to a close, we would like to take a moment to share with you some of the highlights from 2016 that you helped make possible. We look forward to spending 2017 with you! All the best,
Paul Paul J. Gorman, President & CEO
South Shore YMCA
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| 2016: The Y's Year in Review
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| The Streets of Quincy Are Filled with Runners and Walkers in the Frozen 5K
On Sunday, January 3rd, close to 500 runners and walkers took to the starting line at the Quincy YMCA to participate in the 5th annual Frozen 5K Road Race! During and after the race, friends and families enjoyed refreshments and family activities in the Briggs Family Field House. Proceeds from the Frozen 5K Road Race benefit the South Shore YMCA's Change a Life Fund, helping to fund financial assistance opportunities to ensure that Y membership, programs and services are accessible to all.
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| Water Watch Debut Lecture Breaks Attendance Records
For more than two decades, the South Shore Natural Science Center, Mass Audubon's South Shore Sanctuaries and the North and South Rivers Watershed Association have collaborated on a multi-week science-based lecture series, focusing on water in its many forms and moods. This year's kickoff lecture, which took place at Laura’s Center for the Arts on January 13th, featured speaker Michael Tougias, coauthor of the book The Finest Hours, now a Disney movie, which retells the story of the most dramatic rescue in Coast Guard history, that of the T-2 tanker Pendleton in February 1952. The lecture broke attendance records with 310 attendees and more turned away due to fire code restrictions.
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| The Y’s Germantown Neighborhood Center Hosts Martin Luther King Day Breakfast
Friends, supporters and community leaders from the Quincy area gathered in unity on Monday, January 18th at the Y's Germantown Neighborhood Center for the 20th annual Celebration Breakfast honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Inspirational musical performances by Germantown Afterschool Students, a captivating speech by Keynote Speaker Robert Benjamin, Associate Dean for Multicultural Affairs and Student Transitions at Eastern Nazarene College, and wonderful food and company made for another memorable honorary breakfast.
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| Educators From the Y’s Quincy and Emilson Branches Participate in 1st Afterschool Professional Development Day
On Monday, January 18th, Quincy and Emilson Educators participated in the 1st Afterschool Professional Development Day! The day included networking and team building activities which allowed Staff to get to know one another and align themselves to the Y philosophy and shared purpose of strengthening families in Afterschool Programs. Anita Preble from Compass for Kids presented the day long training, Challenging Behaviors - Supporting Children and Families, to the group and provided practical applications to meet the needs of typical children and diverse learners. The Professional Development Day will become an annual event for the South Shore YMCA's Afterschool Staff and meet the needs of their MA Professional Qualifications Registry through EEC.
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| Hope is the Theme at 3rd Annual Partnership Appreciation Luncheon
The energy that filled Laura's Center for the Arts on Friday, January 22nd was no short of inspirational and powerful as Partnership Program Participants and Volunteers, friends and staff from the Y's Emilson Branch gathered for the 3rd annual Partnership Appreciation Luncheon. With 'hope' as the theme of this year's event, the luncheon included an inspirational video, heartfelt messages by Y staff, a slideshow of memorable moments that occurred in the Partnership Program throughout the year, and a delicious lunch. Concluding the luncheon was an open forum, where participants, volunteers and their families, without hesitation, shared just how important the Partnership Program is to them.
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Laura's Center for the Arts Debuts Winter 1 Recital
The Emilson YMCA's Arts & Education students celebrated the culmination of dance, musical theatre, and music training at the Winter 1 Recital curated by Assistant Director, Tyler Cavanagh. On Saturday, January 30th, performers ranged with stage debuts by the youngest members who were 3 years old. Family, friends and Association Staff were delighted to support the talents and training of each student at Laura's Center for the Arts!
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| New Funding Received for Camp Hayward Dining Hall
The South Shore YMCA is deeply grateful for the generosity of The Bilezikian Family Foundation, which pledged $300,000 and Louisa Hayward, who pledged $120,000 in support of the new Camp Hayward Dining Hall. The Bilezikian family children have attended Camp Burgess and Hayward for many years, and Louisa Hayward is the granddaughter of Carle Hayward, who Camp Hayward was named after.
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| Emilson Y Introduces Sky Trail® Explorer
The Emilson YMCA’s Sky Trail® Explorer, a 31-foot tall, indoor, high-adventure ropes course, opened for use in mid-February and is an included member benefit for Emilson YMCA Household Members. The Sky Trail experience is designed to push youth and adults alike outside their comfort zones, challenging themselves and building confidence, teamwork and communication skills in the process – all while being physically active. The Sky Trail is also a platform for specialized Anti-Bullying, Team Building, Self-Confidence Building and Family programs in addition to other high ropes programs.
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| SSYMCA Partners with National Inclusion Project for 3rd Year to Offer Inclusive Summer Camp Programs
The South Shore YMCA has partnered with the National Inclusion Project for the 3rd Year to implement Let's ALL Play - Inclusion in our Day Camp programs at Camp Gordon Clark in Hanover and Quincy Summer Day Camp. The partnership allows children with disabilities to enjoy successful recreational experiences in a more inclusive setting at camp. As part of this initiative, the National Inclusion Project provides a program model, funding, specialized staff training and ongoing support to accommodate campers who may benefit from more positive behavior techniques and social skills coaching.
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| The Quincy YMCA Playroom Celebrates Kindness with a 'Kindness Wall'
The Kindness Wall is a campaign to promote the positivity of kindness in a fun and interactive way for Members and Staff. Throughout the month of February, the Playroom at the Y’s Quincy Branch had a goal to earn 100 kindness hearts in an effort to emphasize all the good that happens in both the room and beyond. This was a positive community builder where staff could give each other or children hearts for any kind act that happened within the room. The kind act was written on the heart and the receiver could decorate it any way that they wanted. The hearts were then hung on the Kindness Wall for all to see the amazing acts that were happening.
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Families Have a Blast at LCA Preschool's Spring-Themed Craft Event!
On Sunday, February 21st, students and their families gathered at Laura's Center for the Arts Preschool for a Spring-themed Craft Event! Families were able to paint bird houses, create mini aquariums and make their very own fairy gardens. This exciting event was made possible by the generous support of The McKim Family Foundation.
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Quincy YMCA Wins Macaroni Kid Gold Daisy Awards
The Y's Quincy Branch won two Macaroni Kid Gold Daisy Awards for 'Best Gym/Fitness Club' and 'Best Swimming Lesson' in the Dorchester, Quincy, Braintree, Milton and Southie area! Macaroni Kid Gold Daisy Awards recognize the most loved local businesses for families.
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| LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Launches at the Y's Quincy and Emilson Branches
LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a 12-week, small group program designed for adult cancer survivors. The program fulfills the important need of supporting the increasing number of cancer survivors who find themselves in a transitional period between completing their cancer treatment and the shift to feeling physically and emotionally strong enough to attempt to return to their normal life or their 'new normal.' LIVESTRONG at the YMCA launched at the Y’s Emilson Branch on Monday, February 22nd and at the Y’s Quincy Branch on Tuesday, March 15th.
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| Taste of the South Shore Raises $212,945 to Benefit Send a Kid to Camp Appeal
On March 24th, over 550 friends, supporters and members of the South Shore YMCA gathered at Lombardo's for the 20th annual Taste of the South Shore, sponsored by Stop & Shop. This year's event was a big success, raising $212,945 to benefit the Y's Send a Kid to Camp appeal. Thanks to the hard work of the planning committee and event volunteers, the Lombardo's ballroom was transformed to give all in attendance a true camp experience. Guests had a blast sampling tastings from 40 of the area's best restaurants, wineries, and breweries and learning about the impact of camp. South Shore Living selected The Greenside Grille Restaurant as the first place winner and The Chef's Table for the Décor Award. Guests voted Fuji 1546 Restaurant & Bar for the People's Choice Award.
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| The Y's Quincy Branch Hosts the 2016 Hoopstars Tournament
This year's Hoopstars Tournament, which took place at the Y's Quincy Branch on Saturday, March 26th, brought together four talented teams ready to play for the championship title. Representing the South Shore YMCA at this year's tournament were the Red Bombs and White Lightening, both teams made up of players from the Y's Quincy and Emilson Branches. Three round-robin games determined the top two teams to play in the final tournament game for the championship title, and after a close game, the South Shore YMCA's White Lightening Team edged out the Red Bombs to take home the trophy. The South Shore YMCA's Hoopstars Team, for the second year in a row, has been generously sponsored by George "Trigger" Burke.
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| Artwork Showcases ‘Perspectives on Inclusion’ at Gallery Opening
Over 130 guests gathered at Laura's Center for the Arts on Thursday, March 31st for the much anticipated 'Perspectives on Inclusion' Gallery Opening Event. The event featured the artwork of talented local artists of all abilities, who used a variety of mediums to convey their perspective on living with a disability and the impact of inclusion. Over the course of two hours, guests moved about Laura's Center for the Arts viewing the 66 pieces of artwork displayed on the walls and tables. Accompanying each artist's masterpiece was an 'artist statement,' which helped the audience better understand the message the art piece was looking to convey. Representatives from five local agencies worked alongside the Y's Inclusion Team and Laura's Center for the Arts' staff to bring this wonderful event to fruition.
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| Laura's Center for the Arts Designs and Leads Team Building Training
Vantage Point Realty Advisors turned to Laura's Center for the Arts to design and lead a team building training this March. Over 25 realtors gathered for a full day conference and training. Led by Tyler Cavanagh, Assistant Director of Emilson's Arts & Education Department, realtors typically focused on independent work relished in a workshop focused on working together. Building customized workshops for professional teams on the South Shore in public speaking and team building is an aspect of arts & education training provided by the team at Laura's Center for the Arts.
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| Camp Burgess & Hayward's Fourth Annual 'First Dip!' is a Success
A huge 'Thank You' to our generous annual "First Dip" sponsors - Vermont Pure Natural Spring Water of Cape Cod, Aubuchon Hardware, Ring Bros. Wholesale, Sysco Boston and David Salo - our brave participants who came out to take the plunge - and our fundraisers and donors for helping us ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience all that Camp Burgess & Hayward has to offer. 20 additional camperships were able to be awarded this year thanks to support from the First Dip!
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| The South Shore YMCA Supports Child Abuse Prevention Month
The South Shore YMCA is committed to educating our community on how to prevent, recognize, and react responsibly to child abuse. While the Y is committed to child safety year-round, each April during Child Abuse Prevention Month, we add a special emphasis on raising awareness in our communities in support of this national movement. Visit our Safe Kids page to learn how you can play a role in protecting children, and to access child abuse prevention resources.
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| Germantown Neighborhood Center Receives Community Development Block Grant for New Teaching Kitchen
Quincy has had many reasons to celebrate Community Development Week over the past 41 years, as the city has been the recipient of $85 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding from Housing and Urban Development (HUD) during that time. Funds have been used for community center programs, youth programs, senior transportation and much, much more. The Y’s Germantown Neighborhood Center received a check for $34,750 for the construction of a teaching kitchen that will allow for an expansion in programming from the food pantry and the garden. Program participants will learn how to take the foods they get from both sources and best use them for their families through healthy new recipes and culinary practices. GNC will also receive checks for separate projects: $3,000 to go towards new flooring for the kitchen, and $15,000 in support of youth programs. After the check presentation, the Center hosted the City of Quincy's Community Development Week Reception.
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| Laura's Love Continues! $25,000 Raised at Annual Tennis Tournament
The South Shore YMCA community loves its Lob-stars tennis team, and it showed during the annual Laura's Love Tennis Tournament. The tournament is played each year in memory of Laura Emilson-Riekert, a volunteer and inspiration for the many players who play in the tournament today, who passed away in 2011. The Lob-stars travel as a team along the East Coast, playing other inclusive tennis teams. Funds raised during the tournament make their travel, opportunities and experiences possible. In all, the tournament raised $25,118 to keep the Lob-stars on the move.
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| The Y’s Germantown Neighborhood Center and South Shore Natural Science Center Presented 2016 Grant Awards By Battelle
In the summer of 2015, the Y’s Germantown Neighborhood Center and the South Shore Natural Science Center partnered on a gardening program called Can You Dig It?, bringing Germantown students to Norwell to learn gardening principles in the Children's Garden, then applying them at the Germantown Neighborhood Center in the fall. Meanwhile, the Science Center built 10 surface ocean drifters and sent them to sea to collect currents data for NOAA. All of this activity was made possible by grants from the Battelle Memorial Institute.
On Monday, April 4th, Kathy Quigley, Executive Director of the Germantown Neighborhood Center, Chris Jacobs, Executive Director of the South Shore Natural Science Center, and John Galluzzo, the Association's Development Grant Writer, spoke to Battelle staff about the successes of the 2015 programs, and previewed the new projects to be undertaken in 2016: water quality testing by Hanover and Germantown students at the Science Center, and the kickoff of a mobile food pantry which will bring food and personal hygiene products to impoverished neighborhoods in Quincy.
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| South Shore YMCA Hosts Annual Early Educator's Retreat
On Monday, April 18th, South Shore YMCA Early Education staff gathered at Laura's Center for the Arts for a full-day professional development retreat. The day included mini-training sessions given by fellow South Shore Y Early Educators on topics ranging from 'STEM for Infants & Toddlers' to 'Music in the Early Ed Classroom' and 'Sensory Exploration.' The broad range of training topics reflects the depth of Early Learning curriculum and dynamic early childhood programming provided by skilled Early Educators throughout all South Shore YMCA Early Education programs.
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| Inclusion Employment Forum Brings Together Local Business Owners and Community Members
Laura's Center for the Arts was buzzing with nearly 100 guests eager to learn during the April 27th Inclusion Employment Forum, 'Benefits of a Diverse Workforce: How Inclusion Can Help Your Business,' sponsored by Commonwealth Financial Group. The event featured Keynote Speaker Leo Vercollone, President and CEO, VERC Enterprises, who spoke about the enormous benefits his company has experienced since hiring individuals with diverse abilities. A panel comprised of representatives from organizations that have successfully integrated inclusion into the workplace also used their own experiences to address the most common fears and perceptions that most people making hiring decisions hold when deciding whether or not to expand their workforce to include individuals of all abilities. The event gave all guests in attendance the information necessary to overcome existing perceptions of hiring individuals of diverse abilities and begin a path toward inclusion in the workplace.
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| The Burgess Farm Collaborates with Cape Cod County Extension Office & Cape Cod Hunger Network to Start New Community Initiative
The Burgess Farm is collaborating with the Cape Cod county extension office and the Cape Cod Hunger Network to establish an exciting new initiative in our community: Grow & Give. This program is designed to encourage local gardeners and farmers to donate a portion of their harvest to local food pantries to help address the lack of fresh, nutritious produce available through those pantries.
In addition to donating seeds and serving as a collaborator in the planning phases, Burgess Farm is planning to be a role model for the community throughout the season by opening a new field for cultivation and then dedicating all of the harvest to food pantries. Participants in our Teen Adventure Trips and other service-learning programs will assist in maintaining the field and harvesting and delivering the produce to local pantries.
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| Families Learn Healthy Habits at Healthy Kids Day Events
There was no shortage of fun, family-friendly and educational activities at the Y’s Quincy and Emilson Branches on April 30th at the much anticipated Healthy Kids Day events. Hundreds of participants joined in the fun at both branch events, spending the afternoon engaging in fun activities including the bounce house, sports games, arts and crafts and more, all designed to celebrate making fitness fun, while connecting kids of all ages with the tools they need to learn healthy behaviors that will last a lifetime.
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| Spaulding Outpatient Center Opens at the Y’s Emilson Branch
On May 2nd, Spaulding opened its new Outpatient Center at the Y’s Emilson Branch, the second satellite site to open as a result of the South Shore YMCA's partnership with Spaulding Rehabilitation Network. The Outpatient Center at the Y's Quincy Branch opened in August of 2015. The Spaulding Outpatient Center at the Y's Emilson Branch operates out of a dedicated space within the YMCA branch, while also utilizing select areas and equipment throughout the facility, and offers services ranging from physical and aquatic therapy to professional nutrition counseling and classes and more.
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| The Y's Germantown Neighborhood Center Hosts Mother's Day Dinner Celebration
The Y's Germantown Neighborhood Center hosted their annual Mother's Day Dinner on Thursday, May 5th. The night brought together a cross-section of seventy women from across Quincy for an evening filled with affirmations and friendships. The recurring theme of the evening proved to be support, how supported the moms felt in the community by their neighbors, the community center staff and its volunteers. The moms spoke directly about their gratitude for how the Center gives them a safe place for their children to attend programs, a place where they can trust people and how they never feel that they are judged when they come into the Center.
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| Nature Center Preschool Partners with the Norwell Council on Aging to Form Intergenerational Nature Explorers
Nature Center Preschool has launched a partnership with the Norwell Council on Aging called the Intergenerational Nature Explorers. Through several visits either at the South Shore Natural Science Center or at the Norwell Council on Aging, children and seniors have explored their local environment through trees, maple syrup tapping, vernal pools, and a service project planting flowers and herbs at the site of the Norwell COA. Grandparents of NCP children have also been a part of the intergenerational exploration. Through this partnership, young children have built a strong relationship with the participating seniors, learned to help others through a service learning experience, and the seniors have a new appreciation for the knowledge and enthusiasm that young children bring to everything they do!
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| The Early Learning Center's 5th Annual Art Show Raises $4,200 to Benefit the Y's Change a Life Fund
The Y's Early Learning Center was transformed into a 'Museum of Fine Arts,’ thanks to the beautiful artwork, done by talented students, that was on display during the 5th Annual Art Show. 500 guests filled the Early Learning Center over the course of the two-night event, celebrating the artwork created and the talent behind the pieces, all while supporting the Y's Change a Life Fund. With 100% of proceeds from this event benefiting the Change a Life Fund, guests did not hesitate to participate in the silent auctions and raffles, raising $4,200 to provide financial assistance opportunities to ELC families.
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| James and the Giant Peach Jr. Comes to Life Onstage at Laura's Center for the Arts
The weekend of May 20th at Laura's Center for the Arts brought the magic of Roald Dahl to the main stage with the production of James and the Giant Peach JR. This production was a major undertaking, even before adding a nine foot tall fabric peach that created a separate stage for our actors, wrapping around them, and then seeming to disappear right before the audience's eyes! The real undertaking, and the real magic, happened in the rehearsal process, where over 30 actors from towns around the South Shore came together to create, learn, grow, and mentor each other!
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| South Shore YMCA Hosts 2016 Staff and Volunteer Recognition Event
On Wednesday, May 25th, South Shore YMCA Staff and Volunteers were honored for their hard work and dedication to the Y at the 2016 Staff and Volunteer Recognition Event. With this year's theme as 'Las Vegas,' guests enjoyed an evening full of fun, games, and a delicious dinner, before a formal awards ceremony began. Jeanette Paul, the South Shore YMCA's Vice President of Human Resources and Leadership Development, kicked off the awards presentation, underscoring that the hard work, passion and dedication that Y Staff and Volunteers bring to our Y every day is what allows us to fulfill our mission in the best possible way - an important message that was positively reinforced throughout the evening.
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| Light Up the Night Brings Together Friends in Support of the South Shore Natural Science Center
Friends gathered in support of the South Shore Natural Science Center's environmental education programs at the 4th annual Light up the Night Fundraiser on June 3rd. This elegant evening of food and fun paid tribute to Len Bicknell, retired president of Alvin Hollis, for both his role as a South Shore Natural Science Center Board Member in the 80s and 90s and for lining up donations of oil for SSNSC for over 30 years. Each year, over 50,000 community members are impacted through the South Shore Natural Science Center's outreach programs, school and public education programs, Nature Center Preschool, and Nature Adventures Camp. Funds raised at Light Up the Night provide the South Shore Natural Science Center the opportunity to continue to enrich the lives of South Shore residents and maintain its 30 acres of open space, trail system, and diverse habitats and ecosystems.
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| Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation Makes a Splash
This spring, the South Shore YMCA received notification that its Partnership Program would receive a boost from the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation. A natural extension of the Partnership Program, the Aquatics Partnership Program, takes place in the pool. And that is where the Foundation is making its local impact. It recently made grants of over $735,482 to 107 nonprofit organizations in the United States that improve opportunities, access and day-to-day quality of life for families and individuals living with disabilities, including funds with which the South Shore YMCA purchased adaptive aquatics equipment for use in the Quincy Y pools.
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| Laura's Center for the Arts Brings Free Summer Concert Series to the Community
Laura's Center for the Arts' free summer concert series on the amphitheater kicked off Wednesday, June 15th with The Miller Street Barn Band, hailing from the South Shore! An evening full of music spanning decades paid tribute to Buddy Holly, The Grateful Dead, Simon & Garfunkel, The Beatles and more. Free summer performances continued through July, with the Miller Street Barn Band returning to the LCA stage, and South Shore Bay Band rounding out the concert series.
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The Y's State Street Early Learning Center Hosts Family Night
On Thursday, June 16th, the Y's State Street Early Learning Center hosted its bi-monthly Family Night, bringing together over 150 people for an evening of enrichment activities and fun. Families were able to build a nursery rhyme book, engage in many hands-on activities as they traveled through the classrooms and purchase great books at the Scholastic Book Fair! By providing families with supports, resources and family engagement opportunities, the State Street Early Learning Center is making positive social impacts and assisting families in building a strong foundation for future growth in all students' developmental domains.
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Guests Gather at Barn Fundraiser in Honor of Neal Tompkins
On Friday, June 24th, Jeff and Kathy Tompkins together with Camp Burgess & Hayward hosted a Barn Fundraiser at Laura's Center for the Arts in Neal Tompkins' memory. Guests gathered for an evening in honor of Neal's memory and love for Camp Burgess, and raised $75,000 to name the Burgess Barn in Neal's name.
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| Golf Classic Raises $133,000 For SSYMCA’s Change a Life Fund, Partnership Program
On Wednesday, July 13th, 240 golfers gathered in support of the Y's Change a Life Fund at the 2016 Golf Classic, which took place at Pinehills in Plymouth. Attendees participated in an afternoon of golf among friends and colleagues on the beautiful Pinehills course before enjoying dinner and a live auction in support of our Change a Life Fund, which makes programs such as the Partnership Program accessible to all. Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, donors and participants, this year's Golf Classic raised $133,000!
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| The South Shore YMCA's Synergy Gymnastics Team Wins Big at National Championships
The South Shore YMCA's Synergy Gymnastics Team had much to celebrate at the YMCA National Championships in Long Beach, California, as their hard work and talent led to noteworthy victories. The Synergy Team, made up of 12 gymnasts ages 9 to 15 years old from towns across the South Shore, participated in three days of competition at five different levels among 2,000 other YMCA gymnasts from all over the country at the YMCA National Championships. Their outstanding performances earned 7 national champion titles, and, collectively, the team received an impressive 35 medals, including 8 first place and 10 second place victories!
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Camp Hayward Celebrates Naming of New Kitchen With Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
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| With the new dining hall and kitchen at Camp Hayward complete, campers have enjoyed the opportunity to come together to eat, talk, forge new friendships and nurture existing ones in this beautiful new space that allows an additional 800 girls annually to attend Camp Hayward. On Monday, July 25th, 300 Hayward campers and staff gathered in the dining hall for a special ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the naming of the new kitchen. Thanks to the generosity of Louisa Hayward, granddaughter of Carle Hayward whom Camp Hayward is named after, and Roger Petersen, the new Hayward kitchen has been named "The Kindness Kitchen."
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| The South Shore YMCA's Quincy Day Camp Hosts Leadership Open House Event
The South Shore YMCA's Quincy Day Camp hosted a Leadership Open House Event on Friday, July 29th at Snug Harbor Elementary School bringing together South Shore YMCA Staff and Supporters and Community Leaders to showcase Quincy Day Camp's Summer Literacy Program and how the Y's summer programming is making strides in mitigating the achievement gap and building youth friendships. Guests at the Open House included Representative Bruce Ayers and community partners who had the opportunity to hear from South Shore YMCA leadership and see Quincy Day Camp's Summer Literacy Program in action.
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| Two New Cabins are Added to Camp Hayward
With the addition of two new cabins at Hayward in 2016, the camp was able to accommodate 64 additional campers, who had previously been placed on a waitlist. The construction of the cabins coincided with the construction of a new 10,000-square-foot dining hall. The new cabins at Camp Hayward will help facilitate growth, as we work to make outstanding outdoor experiences accessible to all, by moving more girls from the frustrations of wait lists into the positive experiences of our residential camp. As beautiful, traditional buildings, the cabins will be the centerpiece in a new phase of investment in the accommodations at Camp Hayward. Two more cabins are slated to be built at Hayward prior to the start of Summer, 2017.
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| Milestone Moment for YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program
In September 2015, the South Shore YMCA's Emilson Branch launched its first YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program, where participants work together in a small group to learn about healthier eating and increasing their physical activity in order to reduce their risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes. Over the course of this year long program, a certified Lifestyle Coach led a group of 8 participants through 25 sessions, focusing on healthy eating, physical activity, stress management, problem solving, tracking fat grams, calorie balance and more. This August, participants of the YMCA's Diabetes Prevention Program met for their final class. After a year of hard work and dedication to the program, the group as a whole successfully lost 86 pounds and 5.2% of their body weight!
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| Germantown Neighborhood Center’s Community Appreciation Day Recognizes Businesses and Individuals for Their Positive Community Impact
A wonderful day of celebration took place on August 4th at the Y's Germantown Neighborhood Center, as friends, community leaders and supporters gathered to honor the individuals and organizations that have made a significant impact throughout the Quincy community at Germantown's annual Community Appreciation Day event. This year's Community Appreciation Day recipients included: 2016 Hero Award: Paul Mollica; 2016 Business Partnership Award: Battelle, Boston Financial Data Services and Lowe's Store #1618; 2016 Community Partnership Award: Eastern Nazarene College and 2016 Strengthening Communities Award: D. Christopher James.
During a special moment in the awards presentation, Kathy Quigley, Executive Director of Germantown Neighborhood Center, took to the stage to speak about the final award, The Claire "Joni" Brennan Legacy Award, which is given out annually to an individual who has overcome obstacles and graduated college. Congratulations to this year's recipient, Alice Monteiro.
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| South Shore Natural Science Center Campers Visit Battelle Office
On Thursday, August 4th, campers from the South Shore Natural Science Center visited Battelle's Norwell offices and lab, providing them a rare opportunity to see science in action. The campers, who ranged in age from seven to 12, were greeted by young scientists working on everything from soil contamination testing to offshore water quality testing. Before displaying the tools of their trades (a sediment grab, a plankton drogue, and more) to the children, Battelle scientists explained their jobs and how they initially became interested in science. During the laboratory tour part of the day, the kids got to see how the soil samples they had brought with them are taken in for processing.
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| 1st Annual Thingamajig Fosters Creativity and Innovation
Over 350 South Shore YMCA Day Campers had the unique opportunity to engage their creativity, strategic thinking, imagination and resourcefulness at the South Shore YMCA's first annual YMCA Thingamajig® Invention Convention, which was held at Eastern Nazarene College, on August 18th. Throughout the day, campers participated in a variety of STEM-based activities and challenges all led by volunteers from local organizations with backgrounds in different aspects of science.
SSYMCA's first-ever Thingamajig® was made possible by a grant from Y-USA through the US Patent and Trademark Office. The South Shore Y was one of only ten Y's chosen from across the country to pilot the event regionally, based on the 20-year success of the signature Thingamajig® event in Washington DC.
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Friendship Camp at the Y's Camp Hayward Brings Endless Fun
From August 28th through September 1st, the Y's Camp Hayward hosted Friendship Camp, bringing together 36 participants from Friendship Home, an organization that serves adults with developmental disabilities, for a week full of fun. Swimming, boating, horseback riding, archery, ropes course and arts and crafts were just some of the fun activities campers spent their days engaging in, before enjoying special evening events such as shows, drum circles and a live band.
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| NESN Celebrity Spotlight Series Highlights Spaulding's Partnership with the South Shore YMCA
As part of NESN's Celebrity Spotlight Series on Spaulding Rehabilitation Network, a segment aired highlighting Spaulding's unique partnership with the South Shore YMCA and how our two organizations work together to further our missions in the community. Spaulding currently operates satellite outpatient centers out of both the Y's Emilson and Quincy Branches. The segment features footage from the Quincy site, showcasing how the partnership adds value to both organizations' operations as well as benefits the wider community through collaboration on events and programs.
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| Emilson Y Launches First Freedom From Smoking Program
On Tuesday, September 13th, the Emilson Y launched its first session of Freedom From Smoking, an 8-week program designed to help smokers gain control over their behavior through topics such as stress management, lifestyle changes, coping strategies, medication and more. Delivered by a Lung Association-trained facilitator in a small group setting, participants receive personalized attention as well as support from their peers.
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| Families Enjoy All Things Corn at SSNSC’s Corn Festival
The South Shore Natural Science Center was lively with over 3,500 friends, families and supporters participating in fall fun at the 40th annual Corn Festival, a two-day event that celebrates the natural and cultural heritage surrounding the fall harvest in New England, on September 17th and 18th. With two beautiful days of weather, attendees moved about the Science Center grounds enjoying the endless activities, entertainment and food that made this year's Corn Festival so special. From hay rides and 4-H animals to musical guests and traditional craft demonstrators, Corn Festival was a huge success, raising $35,000 to bring environmental education programs to the South Shore Community.
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| Top Winner from SSYMCA's Thingamajig Invention Convention is Recognized
On August 18th, Nature Adventures Camper Travis Lee, 10, of Hanover, became the top winner for his invention and design at the South Shore YMCA's 1st annual Thingamajig Invention Convention. On September 22nd, Travis joined other young Thingamajig Inventors from around the country at the US Patent and Trademark Office in Alexandria, VA to celebrate the top winners. The South Shore Natural Science Center's Executive Director, Chris Jacobs, along with representatives from Y-USA and the USPTO presented Travis with his award.
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Early Learning Center Children and Educators Participate in Trike Trek to Support The Rodman Ride for Kids
Children and educators from the South Shore YMCA's Early Learning Center participated in the 4th annual Trike Trek, a "mini" event to mirror the Rodman Ride for Kids, on September 23rd. With this year's theme "this is how I roll," children rode various vehicles, such as trikes, carriages and wagons, around the ELC's Trike Track, through the ELC's obstacle course, washed trike's in the car wash and enjoyed face painting and temporary tattoos.
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Riders Take to the Streets to Support the Y in the Rodman Ride for Kids
The streets of Foxboro and surrounding towns were bustling with riders from over 45 non-profits participating in the 26th annual Rodman Ride for Kids on Saturday, September 24th. With beautiful fall weather, 32 riders representing the South Shore YMCA convened at the starting line, riding their chosen 25, 50, or 100 miles in support of inclusion programs across the YMCA Association.
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| Camp Burgess & Hayward Hosts First Annual Scenic 5K Trail Run-Walk & Fall Festival
Families and friends were surrounded by all of the natural beauty found on the over 300 acres of pristine forests, farmland and ponds at Camp Burgess & Hayward during its First Annual Scenic 5K Trail Run-Walk & Fall Festival! The beautiful weather during this daylong event made for a great day to enjoy the outdoors, participate in the 5K and family friendly activities, and enjoy a delicious lunch. Participation at this event supported the Campership Fund, helping to send more kids to camp!
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| The Y's Early Learning Center Hosts Back to School Family Education Night
Over 150 families visited the classrooms, explored with activities presented and learned more about the importance of being involved in their child's early education at the Y’s Hanover Early Learning Center’s Back to School Family Education night! From swim programs focusing on water safety, to yoga and gymnastics, we look at valuable ways to provide children with a high quality environment that promotes the love of learning, using measurable steps to improve and enhance the health and well-being of each child. Families were given many resources to assist in partnering with educators so each child has a successful year in learning and wonder at our Early Learning Centers and Preschools.
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Students, Teachers and 3M Volunteers Join SSNSC Education Team to Launch Ocean Current Drifters
150 students, teachers and 3M volunteers joined SSNSC's education team to launch 10 ocean current drifters in Cape Cod Bay on Wednesday, October 19th. This fall, students from the Y's Germantown Neighborhood Center, Hull Memorial Middle School, Norwell Middle School, Rockland High School, and South Shore Charter Public School built the drifters as part of a 3M Eco-Grant granted to the South Shore Natural Science Center. Information gathered from the drifters help NOAA scientists create models to help better predict currents.
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| Athletes Participate in Wheelchair Basketball Clinic at the Y’s Quincy Branch
On Wednesday evenings, the basketball court at the Y’s Quincy Branch is lively with athletes of all ages and abilities participating in a Wheelchair Basketball Clinic that was launched early October. Made possible through a partnership with Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers, this clinic offers drills, skill development opportunities and friendly competition in a fun and supportive setting to anyone interested in learning wheelchair basketball.
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| Health Education, Interactive Demonstrations and More at the Emilson Y's Active Older Adult Fair
In its tenth year, the Active Older Adult Fair hosted by the Y's Emilson Branch on Wednesday, October 26th brought together many interested attendees for a day of health education. Attendees visited the many vendors on display to participate in interactive demonstrations and health screenings. Thanks to all of the vendors who participated in this year's event for providing valuable resources and information to attendees!
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| The Y’s Emilson Branch Supports Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Throughout the month of October, the Emilson Y hosted a series of group exercise classes, lectures and events to raise awareness and funds for cancer. “Paint the Y Pink Week,” where all were asked to wear pink in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, kicked off the month-long series of activities. Funds raised throughout the month will support the Cancer Support Community in Norwell. Thanks to all of the volunteers, participants and donors who supported Breast Cancer Awareness Month!
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| Enchanted Evening Raises $454,550 in Support of Germantown Neighborhood Center's Life-Changing Programs and Services
Amazing things happen when generous people come together for a great cause. This statement held unwaveringly true at the South Shore YMCA’s 16th annual Enchanted Evening Gala that took place on Saturday, November 5th at Lombardo’s. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, donors and guests, our Enchanted Evening Gala raised $454,550 in support of Germantown Neighborhood Center's life-changing programs and services.
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| Forge Pond 5K Offers Scenic Views, Unique Trails, and the Chance to Explore the Outdoors
Over 125 runners and walkers ages 6 to 73 years old enjoyed a beautiful fall day at the 2nd annual Forge Pond 5K on Saturday, November 12th, presented in partnership by the South Shore YMCA and Hanover Parks and Recreation Department. Thanks to the support of our participants and volunteers, this year’s Forge Pond 5K was a success, raising over $2,000 to benefit the Y’s Change a Life Fund and Hanover Parks and Recreation Department.
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| Athletes Explore New Sports and Gain Instruction at Introduction to Paralympic Sports Clinic
The positive and welcoming energy inside the Quincy Y’s gymnasium was unmistakable on Sunday, November 13th, as athletes from across the South Shore gathered for the much anticipated Introduction to Paralympic Sports Clinic. Over the course of the afternoon, athletes had the opportunity to participate in over ten different sports, including wheelchair basketball, running and rowing to name a few, connect with representatives from other sport organizations to gain resources, and meet members of the Rio 2016 Paralympic Team!
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| Kids From the Y's Germantown Neighborhood Center Partake in $100 for 100 Event
On Sunday, December 4th, 100 children from Germantown Neighborhood Center were taken by bus to Dick's Sporting Goods in Dedham for the annual $100 for 100 event! On this day, 100 children from Germantown Neighborhood Center are provided with $100 gift cards which allow them to pick out gifts for themselves, their siblings and parents. The event is sponsored by Joyal Capital Management, LLC and Marcus, Errico, Emmer and Brooks, PC. A special thanks goes out to Barbara and Tom Moriarty. Tom is a Germantown Neighborhood Center Board Member and attorney with Marcus, Errico, Emmer and Brooks, PC. Tom and Barbara have headed up this tradition which is a favorite among the children of Germantown Neighborhood Center.
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Santa Comes to the Y's Quincy and Emilson Branches
This December, Santa made visits to the Y's Quincy and Emilson Branches for special breakfast and lunch events! Children and their families got in the holiday spirit with arts and crafts, treats and Santa meet and greets.
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| Winter Schminter Movie Festival Brings December Fun
In December, Emilson’s Arts & Education Department turned Laura’s Center for the Arts into a cozy, private theater experience for the community. These classic wintry and holiday movies were just part of the afternoon! At every screening, families warmed up their fingers with a wintry arts & craft activity! Whether it was a light up snowman, or a yarn weaved reindeer, families and friends filled Laura’s Center for an afternoon of play and relaxation.
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Germantown Neighborhood Center's Holiday Assistance Program Helps Families in Need
Every holiday season, the South Shore YMCA's Germantown Neighborhood Center works to make children and their families' dreams come true through its Holiday Assistance Program. Through generous donations made by community members to this program, Germantown Neighborhood Center was able to service many Quincy-area families in need this season. Children received their wish list items along with a new coat, pants, shirts, pajamas, a weeks' worth of groceries and a household basket full of cleaning and hygiene products.
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