NEWS & UPDATES
HOCKOMOCK AREA YMCA

Posted on: Wednesday, August 10th, 2016

George Johnson, Jr. Receives Legacy of Caring Award

George Johnson, Jr. was recently bestowed the second annual Marge Kraskouskas Legacy of Caring Award on the afternoon of Tuesday, July 26 at the Hockomock Area YMCA’s annual staff recognition luncheon, which was held at Lake Pearl in Wrentham.

A staff member of the Hockomock Area YMCA community for 29 years, Johnson joined the Y in April of 1987. He currently works in the Facilities Department in the North Attleboro Branch and serves as a referee for Y leagues and sports events. Johnson is also an active participant in the community, serving as a Pop Warner and high school football official. Known for his friendliness and willingness to step up and help others, Johnson is well deserving of the Y’s Legacy of Caring Award. Johnson’s reception of this year’s award was met with a standing ovation from his staff colleagues at the luncheon.

The award, named for Marge Kraskouskas, recognizes a staff member for unyielding passion and commitment to the mission and values of the Hockomock Area YMCA. Marge Kraskouskas is the former Hockomock Area YMCA Vice President of Human Resources. Last year, the Legacy of Caring Award was given to Ann Maitland, who has been a partner with the Y for 30 years. She is the director of the Top of the Hill Pre School at the Hockomock Y’s North Attleboro Branch.

Hockomock Area YMCA President and CEO Ed Hurley presented Johnson with the award. Hurley remarked after presenting the award “If I were to stand here and talk about all of the things George has done in his career at the YMCA, from the departments he’s supported and worked with, to the people whose lives he’s touched, they’d be serving dinner at Lake Pearl.” Johnson’s contributions have had a considerable impact over the decades, and the YMCA as well as the community as a whole are fortunate to be indebted to Johnson’s generosity and service.

Congratulations to George Johnson, Jr. on receiving the 2016 Legacy of Caring Award!

Posted on: Friday, August 5th, 2016

Where Community Comes Together

Summer continues to be an exciting time at our YMCA.

On Sunday, July 24th our Hockomock Area YMCA Triathlon was held at Lake Pearl with nearly 300 participants braving the high temperature and humidity.

A highlight of the day was the participation of a group of 8 cancer survivors from our LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program competing as a group on a course that traveled from Lake Pearl in Wrentham, through the towns of Norfolk and Franklin.

The group trained together for weeks. For some, they participated only months after treatments and surgeries, a true testament to the power and inspiration of this life-changing program we are so proud to offer.

Upon completion of the race, the courage and perseverance of our brave cancer survivors was transformed into incredible spirit and emotion among all those gathered at the finish line cheering them on, clearly inspired by their purpose and accomplishment.

The Milford Summer Food Service Program, a collaborative community initiative, continues to flourish with the goal of ensuring children have access to the food they deserve. The Hockomock Area YMCA serves as the project coordinator and provides staff and overall project management in parternship with the Milford Area Humanitarian Coalition. As of mid-August more than 5,000 meals have been served to children and families in the greater Milford region.

On Monday, August 8th, the families visiting the Memorial Elementary site in Milford were treated to a surprise thanks to the generosity of the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation and Patriot Place as Pat Patriot entertained 85 kids and adults with pictures and autographs.

Brian Earley, General Manager of Patriot Place and Chairman of the Hockomock Area YMCA’s Board of Directors, presented the kids with 200 New England Patriots children’s books to take home and enjoy.

Milford Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Kevin McIntyre and Assistant Superintendent Craig Consigli treated the children to a reading of the book while Pat Patriot acted out the scenes to the chants of “Let’s Go Patriots!”

This summer, more than 1,000 kids a day are enjoying their “best summer ever” at our camps at locations in Bellingham, Foxboro, Franklin, Mansfield, and North Attleboro.

Summer campers from our Invensys Foxboro Branch were graciously welcomed to the Xfinity Center for a special tour of the facility by General Manager Jeff Mann – a valued Hockomock Area YMCA volunteer. They also had the opportunity to perform on stage.

Recently summer camp counselors were asked to reflect on their experiences and I’d like to close this month’s eNews with a couple of their responses.

“At camp we have kids from all different backgrounds. We have kids with a wide range of disabilities and special needs ranging from Down Syndrome to kids on the Autism Spectrum. And regardless of what disability they have, they still have an amazing time, making friends and participating at camp.” – Camp New Horizons Coordinator Colin Quinn

“I think at summer camp it’s really important for kids to make connections with other kids their age outside of a school environment…so inside a classroom they obviously know a lot of people but outside of the classroom at camp it’s so different. You get to play a million and ten games every week and get those connections outside of a learning environment where they get to learn about teamwork and about what it means to be a good friend.” – Camp Elmwood Group Leader Matty Greeley

I’m proud of our impact as a cause driven organization and the work we are doing to bring community together to make a difference in the lives of all those we serve. Thank you for continuing to make that impact possible.

Ed Hurley
President, Hockomock Area YMCA



August news from the office of President Ed Hurley

Posted on: Monday, August 1st, 2016

New Programs for Fall 1

We’re gearing up for a fantastic Fall 1 session!

Fall 1 runs:
Sept 12 – Oct 30

Enjoy a variety of programs for everyone in your family.

Over the summer, we (and probably you) have been incredibly inspired watching Team USA in Rio and now we’re excited to see the ripple effect as members in our community decide they too want to work hard in their athletic pursuits. At the YMCA, our programs are designed to help every individual achieve their potential, while learning the benefits of responsibility and respect for teammates, coaches, and all individuals providing support in ways big and small. What a fantastic tradition the summer games are!

As we move into fall, here are our Top Three Program suggestions:


# 3 GYMNASTICS CLASSES

Perhaps nothing is better than gymnastics for helping kids to develop balance and coordination, plus the confidence that’s won as a child takes on new challenges. All of our gymnastics classes use age-appropriate equipment, and our teaching program works with kids of all abilities.

Is your child a future Olympian? Explore the excitement that comes with representing your YMCA in state, regional, and national meets. What a blast our competitive team gymnasts had travelling this summer to California to compete in the YMCA National Gymnastics Championships. At all levels, our gymnasts are putting forth the effort of champions, including boys who join us in recreational classes and toddlers who enjoy classes with a parent or guardian.

Franklin Gymnastics Details

Foxboro Gymnastics Details

North Attleboro Gymnastics Details


# 2 YOUTH SPORTS LEAGUES

The Y is a great place to learn to love a sport and our upcoming fall leagues mean kids can have fun outdoors, while taking advantage of the best time of year to live (and be active outdoors) in New England. Try flag football, soccer, t-ball or cheerleading and be part of our Team YMCA. Don’t miss our early bird savings. When you sign up by the end of day Sunday August 28, you’ll save $15 per sport per child.

Our sports leagues emphasize skill development and the importance of good sportsmanship. Everyone plays and learns. A team sports shirt, cheer uniform, or football jersey is provided with registration. Family event will also be included to end the season in celebration of all athletes.

Franklin Sports Leagues

Foxboro Sports Leagues

North Attleboro Sports Leagues


# 1 SWIM LESSONS & SWIM TEAM

Swimming is a life skill as well as great exercise and a challenging sport. We are passionate about making everyone confident and safe around the water, so we have swim lessons for all ages. Teaching children how to be safe around water is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. We are delighted by what Giovanni says about his swim lessons.

Transitioning back to school might mean it’s a good time to try something new. Explore our intramural and competitive swim programs, which are very popular. John Alberta grew up swimming at the Y and can do the butterfly as beautifully as the swimmers we watched in Rio. Here is John’s Y story. We are thrilled to learn John completed a successful first year swimming for the Engineers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and wish him well in the year ahead.

Franklin Swim Details

Foxboro Swim Details

North Attleboro Swim Details

Tryouts for our HAY LIGHTNING TEAM will take place Thursday, September 1. Visit teamunify.com for details.


There’s more… Yes!

We now offer DANCE CLASSES in an extended 15-week session.

You talked, we listened: Fall 1 dance classes in Foxboro and North Attleboro will run through the end of December, culminating with our holiday performances. Note, we still offer 7-week classes in Franklin (if this is your preference, we just ask you to keep an eye on the Stay Updated section of our website for Fall 2 registration reminders at the end of September).
Foxboro Dance Details North Attleboro Dance Details Franklin Dance Details

Nutrition Coaching is now offered at our YMCA.

And we offer lots of options for helping kids and families make good choices in the every-day areas of their lives. Read more here.


Fall 1 runs 7 weeks, with the following exceptions:

  • No classes held on Columbus Day (10/10/16).
    Monday class participants will see a reduced fee in their cart when compared to the same class running on other days of the week to reflect one fewer class.
  • In Foxboro only… our Fall 1 session begins on Sunday 9/11/16.
    If you’re registering for a Sunday class in Foxboro, please note that you will come a week early and that you will NOT come to class on the day of the Foxboro 5K (10/9/16). This allows a 7-week class and the ability for you to take part in our annual 5K/Fun Run and Family Day. Read more on the Foxoboro 5K here.
  • Sports Leagues kick off the weekend of Sept. 16. Season runs: September 16 – November 6, 2016. Teams will enjoy 3 weeks of practice, followed by 5 weeks of games.

REGISTER TODAY!

Posted on: Thursday, July 28th, 2016

Announcing the start of our fall Weigh to Change Program

We are excited to announce that all 3 of our branches will now offer a 10-week weight loss program called Weigh to Change following the success of our Foxboro spring program where 31 members lost a total of 267 pounds and 318.5 inches. Our fall program begins September 12th and will run through November 19th.

Meet Jed Neureuter, winner and one of our success stories from our spring program. He lost a total of 30 lbs. and 43.9 inches. Here is his story:

“As a result of the Weigh to Change program, I feel great! If I were to sum it up, the program was all about education for me. Now I know how to eat well and exercise properly.

The nutrition component was eye opening. The Styku scans, calorie counting, nutritional food recommendations and supermarket tours were all learning opportunities…I now know better what, when and how much to eat.

The personal training component has me hooked on exercise to complement my improved diet. I learned what Burpees and Pilates are, and even how to Spin. With Michelle, I learned how to do TRX and a new meaning of “sweet sixteen” among several others. The Y staff personalized my workouts and kept them interesting, introducing new exercises, stretching, foam rolling and the Sprint 8. I’ve experienced just about every exercise contraption the Y offers and I’m not longer intimidated to try the group exercise classes.

I know how to eat well, how to exercise properly and realize it’s just the start. The Hockomock Y has put together a great program framework and a great supportive team. I couldn’t be happier to have been part of this program.”

Come to one of our Weigh to Change Information Sessions & Learn More!

Bernon Family (Franklin) Branch
45 Forge Hill Road, Franklin, MA 02038

Days & Times:

  • August 30, Tuesday @ 6:30pm
  • OR September 3, Saturday @ 10:00am

Invensys Foxboro Branch
67 Mechanic Street, Foxboro, MA 02067

Days & Times:

  • September 1, Thursday @ 6:30pm
  • OR September 10, Saturday @ 9:00am

North Attleboro Branch
300 Elmwood Street, North Attleboro, MA 02760

Days & Times:

  • September 1, Thursday @ 6:30pm
  • OR September 10, Saturday @ 8:00am

The Weigh to Change program offers support and education in both areas of fitness and nutrition. By combining physical training and better nutrition, participants will benefit in the most successful way to achieve weight loss. Participants will be challenged throughout the ten weeks with personal training, nutrition guidance, group work outs, and friendly challenge competitions.

Specifically the Weigh to Change Program includes:

  • Weekly individual 30-minute personal training session
  • Individual nutrition counseling with nutritionist
  • Minimum of three weekly group training sessions
  • Weekly nutrition and physical challenges
  • Two Nutrition workshops
  • Styku 3-D body scan
  • Entry into the Foxboro Y 5K Race on October 9th

The cost of the program is $499 for Hockomock Area YMCA Members and $749 for Hockomock Area YMCA Program Members (over an $800 value).

REGISTER ONLINE FOR WEIGH TO CHANGE

Read about the Franklin Y’s trainer

Read about the Foxboro Y’s trainers

Read about the North Attleboro Y’s trainer


Posted on: Tuesday, July 26th, 2016

Come See Shrek the Musical!

Everybody’s favorite ogre is coming to stage this weekend!

Enjoy our Broad-Y Academy’s youth theatre adaption of the Tony award-winning show Shrek The Musical, to be held at Bellingham High School (60 Blackstone Street, Bellingham, MA).

The classic characters of the academy award-winning movie will come to life, including full lights, sound, costumes, sets and props:

  • Saturday, Aug. 13, 7:00 pm
  • and Sunday, Aug. 14, 1:00 pm


Tickets will be available at the door. $10 (adults) $7 (students)

Come be entertained by the cast of Shrek The Musical. Enrichment programs at the Y let all kids grow in creativity, gaining confidence and learning more about themselves. Enjoy the show!!

Posted on: Monday, July 25th, 2016

Youth Leadership at the Y

Through our leadership programs, the Y makes sure that every child has an opportunity to envision and pursue a positive future, and to take an active role in strengthening community. Our Leaders Clubs develop youth ages 12 to 18 as leaders while fostering a culture of service. Learn about the experiences these teens have had at our Y:

Lindsey DeRusha, a 2016 King Philip Regional High School graduate, began her journey with the Hockomock Area YMCA at age 11. The Y soon became her second home. Lindsey was a Counselor-in-Training, and later a camp counselor. Lindsey has been part of the Invensys Foxboro Branch’s Leaders Club for four years, serving on the Executive Board for three years. This year she was the Club President. Lindsey is most proud of her role in the “Be a Star” project. Leaders from all over the region planned and provided a senior luncheon, helped at an elderly housing community, and assisted at food pantries, homeless shelters, and domestic abuse centers. “I am proud of who the Y has made me and who it’s let me be,” shares Lindsey. “I try to positively impact everyone I meet. It’s through the Y that I have learned to do that.” Lindsey was this year’s Youth of the Year for the Invensys Foxboro Branch.

Samantha Bellavance, a 2016 graduate of Franklin High School, is another model of someone who cares and gives back to their community. She describes herself as a “Y lifer,” since she started going to the Y at age 3. Active in the Y’s Leaders Club, Sam has spent an astonishing 2,000 hours performing community service. She was also active in the School’s Out program, where she was a group leader for the before and after school child care at the Y. This year’s Youth of the Year for the Bernon Family Branch, Sam credits the Y for helping instill in her important values, asserting that “I learned to focus on others. I was inspired to be honest and super respectful. I don’t know what my life would be like without the Y.”

Lindsay Robinson, the North Attleboro Branch Youth of the Year, serves to be another example of a young Y member with both leadership skills and compassion for others. A North Attleboro resident, Lindsay’s first experiences at the Y came when she was a child. Her passion for gymnastics began at our Y and she has progressed to become an exceptional gymnast earning many accolades for her dedication and skill. “I’m most proud of the life skills I’m learning at the Y. They take an interest in me and encourage me to reach for success through hard work,” beams Lindsay. Recognized as a leader in the gym with a strong work ethic and friendly demeanor, Lindsay has also earned a reputation outside the gym for giving back to her community. Last year, Lindsay organized a leotard resale campaign for her Bat Mitzvah project to raise funds for our Y’s Reach Out For Youth and Families Campaign. Lindsay has also donated time to many other causes like Lenore’s Food Pantry, Clean North Attleboro, and our annual ROFY Flip Fest.

To learn more about teen leadership opportunities, click here.

Posted on: Wednesday, July 20th, 2016

Back To School Open House

With the school year soon upon us, it’s a great time to visit your YMCA branch for some final summer fun! Please join us for a Back to School Open House hosted by our School Age Child Care program, which we call School’s Out. With a bounce house, cookout and raffles, there is sure to be plenty to do.

School’s Out provides quality, affordable state-licensed child care for kids in kindergarten through middle school: both before and after school. This includes school vacation and professional development days.

Come meet our welcoming professional staff! Since registration can also be completed during this event, we encourage you to bring your questions and we look forward to meeting your family.


Invensys Foxboro Branch

Open House: Wednesday, August 24 6:30-8:30 pm

67 Mechanic Street, Foxboro
Before & After School Program Details
Questions? Contact Sarah at 508-772-1304 or sarahm@hockymca.org.


North Attleboro Branch

Open House: Thursday, August 25 6:30-8:30 pm

300 Elmwood Street, North Attleboro
Before & After School Program Details
Questions? Contact Sara at 508-643-5252 or saraw@hockymca.org.


Bernon Family Branch

Open House: Friday, August 26 6:30-8:30 pm

45 Forge Hill Road, Franklin
Before & After School Program Details
Questions? Contact Ashley at 774-235-2736 or ashleyk@hockymca.org.


To learn more, visit the Youth Development section of our website.

We hope to see you at our Back to School Open House!

Posted on: Wednesday, July 20th, 2016

Our Camps Voted Best in the Region

Thank you for voting us a favorite through Wicked Local Readers Choice Awards!

#1 Regional Favorite for Summer Camp!

We appreciate your votes and remains steadfast in our cause to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

We strive to make this the best summer ever! We believe we provide a place for youth and teens to belong, try new things, and make lifelong friends. Camping teaches self-reliance, a love for nature and the outdoors and the development of attitudes and practices that build character and leadership. Our days are invigorating and we are having an amazing summer through hands-on learning.

We also received accolades for our Hockomock Area YMCA branches in the following Wicked Local Readers Choice Award categories:


Invensys Foxboro Branch Accolades

  • #1 Day care/Preschool
  • #1 Health Club/Yoga Studio

North Attleboro Branch Accolades

  • #1 Health Club/Yoga Studio
  • #1 Gymnastics School

Bernon Family Branch, Franklin Accolades

  • #1 Gymnastics School

To learn more about Wicked Local Readers Choice Awards 2016, click here.

Posted on: Wednesday, July 20th, 2016

Craft Night at the Garden

Families, individuals, and groups of all ages, get ready it’s craft night at our Mansfield Community Garden!

Come check out this beautiful community space while making new friends, unleashing your creativity, and soaking up the splendor of summertime. At the end of the night, take home a handmade one-of-a-kind mason jar lantern. We think they make a great addition to home and garden.

Details

Where: Mansfield Community Garden – located across from 386 Essex Street, Mansfield, MA

When: July 27 (6:00 – 8:00 pm)

  • Cost: $25 to cover supplies (and in support of the community garden)
  • Hosted by Cindy LeBlanc of Arts & Laughs Paint Parties
  • Register by July 22 at Member Services at the Foxboro Y. Or call 508-543-2523

contact: Marykate Bergen marykateb@hockymca.org

Posted on: Friday, July 15th, 2016

Transition to College – Workshops for Students and Parents

Ok – you got in! You have the dorm room, supplies and some new clothes. You’ll be leaving pretty soon to take the next huge step in life. In collaboration with Dean College, our Y is excited to offer support as you head to college.

Learn how to stay strong, healthy and confident throughout your college years. Break-out sessions offered in two formats, one for parents and another for students with input from counselors, college officials, current college students and recent grads.

Parents, how can you best be there for your young adult on this journey? You can prepare for college through the Teen Transitions program, which offers mentoring and guidance to young adults currently enrolled in high school

“The transition to college can be very challenging for new students and their families. The first few weeks and months can be an emotional roller coaster,” said Cindy Kozil, Vice President of Enrollment & Retention at Dean College. “Parents ask us how they can best support their son/daughter during this transition. We offer specific recommendations, strategies and tips to make the experience easier, less stressful and more enjoyable for all involved.”

At the workshops, you’ll also learn about resources that are available at college campuses to help make the entire college experience as positive as possible.

The workshops are free and open to the public. We encourage all students and their parents just beginning college and anyone seeking more information about the college experience to attend.

Thriving at College:
Your First Weekend & Beyond

Details

Where: Franklin High School – Lecture Hall, 218 Oak Street, Franklin, MA
When: August 9 and 16 (6:00 – 7:30 pm)

Topics of Interest include:

  • Separating from life-long friends
  • Leaving behind a boyfriend or girlfriend
  • Creating new friendships
  • Thriving under academic and/or social pressure
  • Managing freedom and a schedule that’s unlike high school

Pre-Register for Chance to Win $100 Gift Card

PRE-REGISTER NOW


Note: if you’re not a YMCA member, you may register at our member services (508-528-8708). Topics covered: 8/9 Successfully Adjusting to New Challenges in College; 8/16: Staying Safe, Healthy and Strong. Once you register for one night, you are automatically registered for the following week’s session.

Thriving in College: Your First Weekend and Beyond workshop series: sponsored by the Hockomock Area YMCA Bernon Family Branch and Dean College, with support from State Representative Jeffrey Roy, the Franklin Public Schools, Community Impact, New Hope, Riverside Trauma Center and the S.A.F.E. Coalition and part of the Teen Transitions program – a collaboration between our YMCA and Dean College, offering mentoring and guidance to young adults currently enrolled in high school.

HOCKOMOCK AREA YMCA

300 Elmwood Street
North Attleboro, MA 02760
 508.695.7001

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CAUSE
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HOCKOMOCK AREA YMCA LOCATIONS

BERNON FAMILY BRANCH

45 Forge Hill Road
Franklin, MA 02038

 508.528.8708

INVENSYS FOXBORO BRANCH

67 Mechanic Street
Foxboro, MA 02035

 508.543.2523

HURLEY FAMILY BRANCH

300 Elmwood Street
North Attleboro, MA 02760

 508.695.7001

MANSFIELD ARTS & EDUCATION CENTER

40 Balcom Street
Mansfield, MA 02048

 508.339.3066