February is a time to celebrate connection — the friendships we build, the communities we belong to and the moments that bring us together. At the YMCA of Metro Denver, love shows up every day through shared experiences, meaningful relationships and a commitment to creating a place where everyone feels they belong.

Here's what's happening this month at the Y.

Celebrate Valentine's Day and the 150th Anniversary of the YMCA with an intimate and joyful Sip & Paint fundraiser fostering friendship, creativity and the power of women supporting women.

When: Thursday, February 12, 4 – 6:30 PM
(Painting begins promptly at 4 PM)

Where: The Y Academy Building
University Hills-Schlessman Family YMCA Campus
2625 S. Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO 80222

All painting supplies provided — no experience required. Hors d'oeuvres and wine will be served. Midway through the evening, we'll hear directly from two special guests — Y member Carol and staff member Stephanie — who will share their Y story, which reflects the gratitude, love, care and belonging that have defined the Y for 150 years. ➡️

Summer Camp 2026 registration is now open to all families — and spots are filling fast. At YMCA Summer Camp, kids find adventure, build confidence, make new friends and create memories that last a lifetime.

Families across the Denver metro area choose the Y for a camp experience that includes physical activity, art projects, games, outdoor exploration, character development and social-emotional learning.

The YMCA Summer Camp scholarship application is open now, making it easier for families to access a summer of fun and growth. Start planning now for a summer filled with discovery, belonging and unforgettable memories at the Y!

February is Heart Health Month, and throughout the month we are inviting members to get moving with our Power Your Pulse Challenge.

All cardio counts, starting February 1. Run, walk, bike, swim, play pickleball, shoot hoops or take a fitness class. Whether you prefer workouts at the Y or outside, every minute of movement helps you reach the goal.

Members can join and track their progress in the challenges section of the YMCA of Metro Denver mobile app. Log your workouts, watch your hours add up, and stay motivated throughout the month.

Complete the challenge by February 28 to win a YMCA prize!

Did you know the Glenarm Branch YMCA, built in 1924, was a central gathering place for Denver's Black community at a time when segregation limited access to equitable recreation and education? For more than five decades, it served not just as a gym or recreation center, but as a "town hall of Five Points," hosting athletics, learning programs, employment support, community meetings and social events. This historic YMCA was a hub of connection, uplift and opportunity — welcoming Black military personnel during World War II and enriching the social fabric of the neighborhood for generations. Learn more about the Glenarm Y.

February 25 | 4 PM
Centennial YMCA Center of Generations

Founded in 1922, Lincoln Hills in Gilpin County was the largest African American mountain resort west of the Mississippi. It served as a place of joy, rest and belonging for Black families and welcomed influential figures such as Langston Hughes and Duke Ellington.

Join us to learn more about this historic retreat and its lasting legacy of community, connection and resilience. RSVP here.

We're excited to announce the return of the Annual Community Campaign, launching at the end of this month. This is a long-standing YMCA tradition across the country, one we're proud to bring back to the YMCA of Metro Denver as a way to strengthen programs, expand access and increase our impact across the community. Leading this year's campaign is longtime Denver Y champion Campaign Chair Dave Ferrill. 👇

Dave Ferrill, Annual Community Campaign Chair

STOP BY & SEE US!

To kick things off, our Development team will be hosting "office hours" at our YMCA centers throughout February — a great opportunity to ask questions about where donations go, learn how the campaign supports kids, families and neighbors across Metro Denver and find out how to get involved.

Drop by your center between 8 and 9 AM on these dates:

Monday, February 2: Southwest YMCA & Arvada-Duncan YMCA
Friday, February 6: Aurora YMCA & Littleton YMCA
Monday, February 9: University Hills–Schlessman YMCA

Natalie Barrientos, Director, Annual Giving Fundraising

Leisha DeSmet, Chief Development Officer

YMCA Youth Sports registration for Spring 2026 is opening soon! Our programs help kids build skills, make friends, and have fun in a safe, supportive environment.

Season Dates: April 6 – May 30, 2026
Member Registration Opens: February 16, 2026
Open Registration for All: February 23, 2026
Registration Deadline: March 23, 2026

Beginning in March 2026, members with third-party memberships — such as through Renew Active or SilverSneakers — will have the option to add dependents to their membership. More details will be shared soon.

The Aurora YMCA invites cancer survivors to join our FREE 12-week LIVESTRONG program to rebuild strength, boost wellness and connect with others.

When: Wednesdays & Fridays, 1:30 – 3 PM, Feb 18 – May 8
Where: Aurora YMCA at Wheatlands

First-time participants receive a FREE YMCA Household Membership!

Join us for a special YMCA Night at Ball Arena as the Denver Nuggets take on the Boston Celtics on Feb. 25 at 8 PM.

Tickets are limited and sold first-come, first-served, so be sure to grab yours soon and enjoy a night of basketball, fun and community pride.

Jeff Zawila, New Board Chair

Elizabeth Horton, New Board Member

The YMCA of Metro Denver is pleased to announce some leadership updates and member changes to its Board of Directors. Jeff Zawila will step into the role of Board Chair, succeeding Bob Divers, who is now in the role of Immediate Past Board Chair. Together, they will help guide the organization through our milestone 150th anniversary year and into the future. We welcome Elizabeth Horton as a new Board member and thank Mari Akers, Dave Eberly and Doug Newton for their service as they conclude their time on the Board. Read the full story.

You may notice a new scheduling tool on our website! Basketball and gym court schedules, along with our pool schedules, are now available online. We hope this makes planning your favorite activities simpler. Our team is continuing to fine-tune the schedules to keep them accurate and up to date—thanks for your patience as we roll it out!