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Posted on: Wednesday, April 29th, 2026

Six Essential Water Safety Tips for National Water Safety Month

May is National Water Safety Month, and as families get ready for fun in the sun, the Hockomock Area YMCA is reminding parents and caregivers that water safety should be at the top of their summer checklist.

Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death for kids ages 1–14, but it’s also preventable. As one of the nation’s largest community-based providers of swim lessons and water safety programs, the Hockomock Area YMCA is committed to helping families keep kids safe in and around the water.

Swimming and playing in the water are wonderful ways for kids to stay active and create lasting summer memories, but safety always comes first. A few simple precautions can help prevent tragedies and ensure everyone has fun safely.

Water Smart Rule #1: Ask First, Splash Later

Always ask permission before getting in the water. Whether it’s a pool, lake, or even the bathtub – make sure you don’t splash without a grown-up’s go-ahead.

Why? Because while water is fun, it’s also very powerful.

Water Smart Rule #2: Find Your Water Watcher.

Every swim session needs a designated Water Watcher.
That means: no phones, no books, no distractions – just eyes on the water. Kids? Teens? Adults? Everyone needs supervision!

Water Smart Rule #3: Buddy Up or Dry Out.

The Buddy System isn’t just for field trips; it’s for every swimming session. No one swims alone. So be sure to:

  • Pick your buddy.
  • Stick together.
  • Stay safe.

Water Smart Rule #4: Suit Up Like a Pro.

  • Sunscreen?
  • Swimsuit?
  • Coast Guard-approved life jacket?

Fashion tip: Safety never goes out of style.

Water Smart Rule # 5: Don’t Hold Your Breath (literally).

Breath-holding contests? Yeah, let’s not.

They might seem like harmless fun, but breath-holding games in the water can be seriously dangerous, even for strong swimmers.

Holding your breath too long can lead to shallow water blackout, a silent and sudden emergency that can happen without warning.

At the Y, we teach that water safety isn’t just about swimming, it’s about smart choices. So, skip the contests, and keep the fun safe for everyone.

Water Smart Rule #6: Know What to Do (Before You Need To).

Emergencies don’t wait. Learn how to recognize signs of distress, call for help, and respond calmly. Don’t jump in the water to save a friend who is struggling – use a long object to reach for them and pull them to safety.

Bonus: Take a CPR or water safety class at your local Y, because heroes aren’t born, they’re trained.

🏊‍♀️

The Hockomock Area YMCA offers swim lessons and water safety programs year-round to help children and families gain the skills and confidence they need to stay safe. To learn more, contact your local YMCA’s director of aquatics (see below), or to enroll your child, click below.

ENROLL TODAY

45 Forge Hill Rd. Franklin, MA
CONTACT: Krystina Edens krystinae@hockymca.org

67 Mechanic St. Foxboro, MA
CONTACT: Christopher Tower christophert@hockymca.org

300 Elmwood St. North Attleboro, MA
CONTACT: Kaylea Sherman kayleas@hockymca.org

Posted on: Friday, April 3rd, 2026

Parkinson’s Programs at the Y

Parkinson’s Disease Programs at the Hockomock Area YMCA are evidenced informed program to help PD patients achieve an improved sense of well-being alongside others experiencing similar challenges, in an supportive atmosphere that meets the emotional, physical and socialization needs of its participants.

Our programs:

Pedaling for Parkinson’s is designed to help improve overall endurance, gait and balance. The program is held 5 times a week for 60 minutes and is taught by certified Indoor Cycle Instructors. This includes a 10 minute warm up at 60 RPM, followed by 40 minutes at 80 to 90 RPM, and a 10 minute cool down, with resistance. Class session will also include tracking heart rate, exercise frequency and cadence/intensity.(Participants are encouraged to attend 3 times a week for maximum program benefit but not required.)

Offered the following days/times:

Mondays at 11:00am at our Foxboro Y

Tuesdays at 6:00pm at our North Attleboro Y

Wednesdays at 11:00am at our North Attleboro Y

Thursdays at 6:00pm at our North Attleboro Y

The Move Forward program is a 30-minute class for individuals with Parkinson’s combining strength training, balance and stretching for. Each weekly class will include various exercises to help improve balance, mobility, strength, endurance, cognition, and flexibility.

Offered the following days/times:

Tuesdays at 5:30pm at our North Attleboro Y

Wednesdays at 10:30am at our North Attleboro Y

Thursdays at 10:30am at our Franklin Y

The Yoga for Parkinson’s program improves balance, reduces anxiety and depression, builds strength and stability, strengthens the mind-body relationship, loosens tight muscles, and creates fluidity of movement.

Offered the following day/time:

Mondays at 12:00pm at our Foxboro Y

Wednesdays at 10:30am at our North Attleboro Y

Fridays at 10:15am at our Franklin Y

The Aquatics for Parkinson’s Program focuses on improving balance, gait and flexibility while increasing muscular strength and endurance as well as cardio-respiratory strength and endurance.

Offered the following day/time:

Tuesdays at 11:30am at our North Attleboro Y

To enroll or for more information, please contact Donna Higgins at donnah@hockymca.org or 508-643-5271.

Programs supported by the Massachusetts Chapter of the American Parkinson Disease Association.

Participants must meet the following criteria to participate in the program:

  • Have a clinical diagnosis of Parkinsons Disease
  • Complete and submit a signed consent
  • Obtain clearance from a medical provider
  • Be willing to take part in monitoring and data collection

When there’s the Y, there’s a way to learn about healthier living.


Inspiring Stories from participants and staff

Posted on: Monday, March 9th, 2026

Great Options for Your April Vacation

When School Is Out, the Fun Is In!

When school is not in session due to the April break, your kids are invited to join us at the Y for fun and social happenings.

We believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve! That’s why, at the Y we offer flexible schedules and promote the opportunity for kids to gain values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health, and educational achievement.

Our experienced staff takes the right steps to ensure your camper’s safety and happiness during an action-packed day!


School Break: April 20 – 24, 2026:

  • Pre Care is available from 7:00-9:00am if needed for a nominal cost.
  • Break Program (typical) 9:00 am—4:00pm
  • Post Care is available if needed as well from 4:00—6:00pm for a nominal cost.
  • Note: Please bring a lunch, snack and water. Some programs will include swimming so please bring bathing suit and towel.

The Foxboro Y Vacation Programs:

REGISTER / BROWSE PROGRAMS @ FOXBORO

We are offering a variety of vacation programs for youth ages 3-12 including April Camp Wapawca with field trips; Preschool and Youth Gymnastics, Cooking, Dance and Swim Camp. Click on the link above to get all the details.

The Franklin Y Vacation Programs:

REGISTER / BROWSE PROGRAMS @ FRANKLIN

At our Franklin Branch we are offering a variety of vacation programs for youth ages 3-14 including April Camp Wiggi with field trips and Swim Camp. Click on the link above to get all the details!

North Attleboro Y Vacation Programs:

REGISTER / BROWSE @ NORTH ATTLEBORO

At the North Attleboro Branch we are offering a variety of vacation programs for youth ages 3-14 including April Camp Elmwood with field trips; Preschool and Youth Gymnastics, Sports and Cooking and Swim Camps. Click on the link above to get all the details.

Additionally, we are offering a YMCA Lifeguard Certification Course during April Vacation Week. Join us for this three day course – happening Tuesday, April 21 through Thursday, April 23. Learn more and Register

Posted on: Sunday, February 15th, 2026

Spring Sports Leagues Registration

Make plans to join Y coaches for eight weeks of our popular Spring Sports Leagues!

Leagues and Prep-for-Leagues programs will start outdoors the weekend of April 9 at all Hockomock Y branches. Member and public rates are available and most leagues come free with a Family membership. Game on!

ENROLL: SOCCER

ENROLL: T-BALL / BASEBALL

ENROLL: NFL FLAG FOOTBALL

ENROLL: LEAGUES PREP FOR OUR YOUNGEST ATHLETES

Youth Soccer Leagues will run eight weeks (April 11-June 14, 2026; no meetings: April 23-26 or May 22-24), costing: $88 member / $119 non-member / $25 family-type member with promo code. Participants will receive their uniforms after their first practice.

Youth Baseball Leagues will run during the same eight weeks: at the same cost as above.

Flag Football Leagues will also run the same weeks, but costing $117 member / $152 non-member / $40 family-type member with promo code. Participants will receive their uniforms after their first practice.

The Sports League Prep program, designed for younger athletes and those eager to try a new sport, will span eight weeks. Participate in soccer, flag football, and t-ball, with different options available depending on the location. Each meeting will run for 45 minutes and the cost is $80 member / $160 non-member. No uniforms are provided.

Family-type members, you receive FREE enrollment for Spring Sports Leagues (excludes League Prep programs)! Please see your 1/30/26 email from Hockomock Area YMCA (the address associated with your YMCA membership) or call member services for the required promo code. Be prepared at checkout to pay uniform fees, which are excluded from the promotion. Those fees are $25 (soccer and baseball) or $40 (NFL flag football).

Questions? Please email your local YMCA

ENROLL TODAY!

Posted on: Wednesday, February 11th, 2026

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Classes

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a no-cost, 12-week program designed for cancer survivors and their families seeking to regain health, build strength, and connect with other cancer survivors. Participants work with staff trained in supportive cancer care to safely achieve goals such as building muscle mass & strength, increasing flexibility & endurance, and improving confidence & self-esteem. By focusing on the whole person and not the disease, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is helping people move beyond cancer in spirit, mind and body. The program meets twice a week for 90 minutes, using traditional exercise methods to ease you back into fitness and help participants improve confidence and self-esteem.

A cancer survivor is defined as anyone who has been diagnosed with a form of cancer in their lifetime.

Check out the locations, dates, and times of our upcoming LIVESTRONG at the YMCA classes starting the week of March 30.

Bernon Family Branch, Franklin

45 Forge Hill Road
Franklin, MA
Day & Time: Mondays and Wednesdays: 6:15pm-7:45pm
Day & Time: Wednesdays and Fridays: 10:45am-12:15pm

Invensys Foxboro Branch

67 Mechanic Street
Foxboro, MA
Day & Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays: 10:30am-12:00pm
Day & Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays: 6:00pm-7:30pm

Hurley Family Branch, North Attleboro

300 Elmwood Street
North Attleboro, MA
Day & Time: Mondays & Wednesdays: 10:30am-12:00pm

Participants receive a free family membership to the Hockomock Area YMCA during the program.

Cancer survivors are encouraged to contact Jackie Robison, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Director, at 508-772-1310 or jackier@hockymca.org for more information and to enroll. For additional information, click here.

When there’s the Y, there’s a way to learn about healthier living.


Inspiring Stories from Cancer Survivors

From gaining physical strength to finding encouragement along the way, community members share their journeys at the Y.

Posted on: Saturday, January 24th, 2026

Y Rewards

We are excited to reward you for your membership with our Y Rewards program.

At the Y, strengthening community is our cause. We measure our success by how well we empower you to live healthier in spirit, mind and body. Now we’re making it even easier to work toward your goals with Hockomock Area YMCA Rewards.

Earn points for things like checking into the Y, doing surveys and workout challenges, and more. Then, you’ll get to redeem your points for savings on things like hotels and entertainment, your Y membership, and YMCA gear.

It’s FREE to sign up and the rewards program is our way of saying thank you. See all the latest perks here. Start earning points and join Y Rewards today!

EARN | REDEEM | REWARD

Join today and start earning points.

CREATE ACCOUNT

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How to Join

  1. Visit rewards.hockymca.org and click “Join Program”.
  2. Enter your email address and click “Sign Up”. (You must use the same email address that’s tied to your YMCA membership in order to earn points!)
  3. Check your email for a confirmation message and click “Complete Registration”.
  4. Once you’re redirected to the rewards site, enter your first and last name, create your password, and click “Sign Up”.

How to Earn Points

We are so glad that you are a Y member, and we want to reward you for using your membership and being a part of our cause. You can earn reward points on almost everything you do at the Y, and it’s so easy to do!

Earning Activity Points
Join or upgrade to YMCA Family Membership +250
Refer a Friend who joins the Hockomock Y +500
Each Friend That You Refer +10
Join Rewards Program +50
Member Anniversary +50
YMCA Check-in +3
YMCA Check-in BONUS: 8x/month +50
Birthday +50

WHAT ARE THE REWARDS EXACTLY?

There are scores of savings and free products you can easily earn! We offer “in-club rewards” – for things like a free YMCA workout for a friend, membership upgrades, free youth classes, personal training and more! Check it out to see additional vacations, shopping discounts, coupons, and Y Swag available to you when you join Y Rewards.

View Rewards


How to Redeem Points

Ready to redeem your points? Reward points can be redeemed for awesome Y apparel, local store rewards, and more.

After you have set up an account at the above link, using the same email address that’s tied to your YMCA membership, you can shop so many great items! Visit and be sure to bookmark: myrewardstore.com/hockymca.


For questions about setting up your account, please contact us at your local Y: foxboro@hockymca.org, franklin@hockymca.org, northattleboro@hockymca.org.

Please contact our vendor for any questions related to the online shopping experience including order fulfillment and shipping. All questions related to myrewardsstore.com/hockymca can be handled if you call 877-210-3221 or email customersupport@myrewardsstore.com.

Visit hockymca.perkville.com/details/ for the fine print.

Posted on: Friday, January 23rd, 2026

March Basketball (YBL) Extension Enrolling Now

Are you ready to take your basketball game to the next level?

March YBL Extension accepting sign-ups!

Quick note: Keep the Momentum Going! Join us for an additional 4-5 weeks of basketball excitement! Kids will further develop their skills with engaging drills and mini scrimmages. Enroll now! The YBL Extension will take place on Saturdays in Foxboro or Franklin, and Sundays in North Attleboro, starting the weekend of February 28, 2026.

The information below relates to the YBL Program currently underway:

Saturdays where basketball was born—right here at the Y!

Give your child (ages 3–Grade 4) a fun, skill-building experience:

  • Skills and Drills: Boost dribbling, shooting, passing, and defense
  • Fundamentals: Learn the core principles from experienced coaches
  • Scrimmages and Games: Apply skills in real-game play and teamwork

Youth Basketball Leagues (YBL) – Grab a Roster Spot!

  • Season Dates: December 13, 2025 – February 7, 2026
  • Ages: Starting at age 4 through Grade 4 (varies by branch)
  • See below for additional programs for age 3
  • Open to all skill levels – non-members welcome!
  • Cost: $88 for members | $119 for non-members

Member Savings Tip

Family-type members enrolling in YBL are eligible for a special promo code—check your email or ask Member Services for help! With the code, you’ll only pay for the t-shirt uniform, making it an even better value to get your child in the game.

Don’t miss this exciting chance for your child to build skills, make friends, and have fun on the court!
Register today and get ready to play!

REGISTER: YBL

Preseason clinics

Basketball Prep for Age 3 – Join the Fun!

Is your 3-year-old ready to get in the game? Our Basketball Leagues Prep class introduces young players to the basics—dribbling, passing, shooting, defense, and simple game play—in a fun, parent/child format.

Class Details:

  • Same days as YBL, kicking off first thing in the morning
  • Cost: $80 for members | $160 for non-members
  • Promo codes do not apply

REGISTER: YBL PREP (AGE 3)

Help your child build confidence and skills for future league play—register today!

Posted on: Friday, January 16th, 2026

Join our 100-Mile Challenge

The Challenge will run from January 19 through February 28, 2026 at our Foxboro, Franklin, and North Attleboro branches.

We hope this free fitness challenge will help keep you motivated through the winter months to stay on track to meet your health & wellness goals.

Workout miles can be accrued by any combination of the following types of exercise: swim, walk, run, bike, row, group exercise/water fitness classes, elliptical, arc trainer, lateral X, etc.

  • For the pool, 1/4 mile = 9 laps
  • 1 lap = 2 lengths of the pool
  • A 45-minute water fitness or group exercise class = 3/4 mile

To participate and register, simply fill out the 100-Mile Challenge Chart hanging in your branch after your workout at our Y or after your workout completed elsewhere as soon as you can. Write your name with the dry erase marker provided in the larger block, and fill in the smaller box(es) in your name’s row for every 1/4 mile you complete. If you have any questions, please reach out to any health & wellness staff person.

The top 3 winners at each branch will earn bragging rights and will be announced during the week of March 1st.

Good Luck! And thanks for being a part of our Y!

Posted on: Thursday, January 15th, 2026

Fun with the Bunny Event

Join us for a Spring Family Night!

Celebrate Spring and upcoming holidays with a fun-filled Friday night for the whole family! Kids can meet the Bunny, take photos, enjoy arts & crafts, play games, and finish the night with a Bunny Dance.

Friday, March 27, 2026

The Bunny will be visiting as an annual Hockomock Y tradition. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

EVENT DETAILS:

6:30pm – 8:00pm

6:00pm Option for quieter, sensory friendly early access

Happening at all 3 branches: Foxboro, Franklin and North Attleboro.

Cost: $6 per child for members / $12 per child for non-members. Only children need to register.

Free for Family-type Y members. Online registration not available for complimentary family membership event registrations – please call or visit your branch to register.

REGISTER TODAY

The North Attleboro Branch will have a flashlight egg hunt at 6:45pm and pizza will also be available for purchase.

Bring the whole family for a hoppin’ good time!

Posted on: Thursday, January 1st, 2026

All In, All Together for Community Impact

On Friday, March 6, we’ll gather at Gillette Stadium for our annual fundraising breakfast—a morning of purpose and connection. Our Annual Campaign Breakfast unites neighbors, partners, and friends who believe in strengthening community. When we’re all in, all together, every voice and every gift helps create real, lasting impact at our YMCA.

Event Details

  • Date: Friday, March 6, 2026
  • Networking: 7:00 a.m. | Breakfast & Program: 7:30 a.m.
  • Location: Gillette Stadium, Foxboro, MA (Cross Insurance Club)

Donate Now

Can’t attend? You can still make a difference—give today.

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HOCKOMOCK AREA YMCA

300 Elmwood Street
North Attleboro, MA 02760
 508.695.7001

MEMBERSHIP
COMMUNITY
CAUSE
CAREERS

MY ACCOUNT

Privacy Policy

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

 508.408.7970