YMCA News Archive

YMCA Hosts Annual National Youth Project Using Minibikes Rodeo on September 4

jeffrey.needham — Thu, 29 Aug 2019 20:09:44 +0000

YMCA Hosts Annual National Youth Project Using Minibikes Rodeo on September 4 jeffrey.needham Thu, 08/29/2019 - 15:09

Brooklyn Park, MN – YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, will host the annual National Youth Project Using Minibikes (NYPUM) Rodeo in conjunction with local law enforcement and community partners on Wednesday, September 4, in Brooklyn Park, Minn.

The YMCA has facilitated the NYPUM for 43 years, connecting youth facing barriers to a healthy peer group and positive adult role models and demonstrating its value by motivating youth to make positive choices in their daily lives. The program also seeks to break down walls between youth and local police. Young people ages 10 and older who have participated in the program this summer or NYPUM alumni will have the chance to show off their skills on dirt bikes.

“The YMCA is proud to be part of this national program impacting youth by integrating positive youth development, intentional goal setting and behavior modification,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YMCA of the North. “Young people in the program have the opportunity to connect with their communities while learning exciting new skills.”

WHO:
YMCA of the North along with local law enforcement and community partners

WHAT:
Annual NYPUM Dirt Bike Rodeo

WHERE:
10407 West River Road in Brooklyn Park, MN 55444

WHEN:
Wednesday, September 4 at 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. with awards program at 6:30 p.m.

About the YMCA of the North

The YMCA of the North is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Established 163 years ago, the Ys provide life-strengthening services across 12 counties of the greater Twin Cities metro region, southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin communities. The 28 Y locations and program sites, eight overnight camps, 10 day camps, and more than 90 child care sites engage more than 370,000 men, women and children of all ages, incomes and backgrounds. To learn more about the Y’s mission and work, visit www.ymcamn.org.

YMCA Gets Kids Ready for School at Early Childhood Learning Centers

jeffrey.needham — Mon, 26 Aug 2019 17:22:59 +0000

YMCA Gets Kids Ready for School at Early Childhood Learning Centers jeffrey.needham Mon, 08/26/2019 - 12:22

At YMCA Early Childhood Learning Centers (ECLC), 98 percent of students with at least one year at Y ECLCs surpass school district kindergarten readiness standards.
Research shows cognitive flexibility scores were lower, on average, for children who had no regular early care and education arrangements the year before kindergarten and for those whose primary arrangements were home-based relative care than for children who primarily attended center-based care.
The American Academy of Pediatrics states play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength and it is through play that children, at a very early age, engage and interact in the world around them.

The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, gets kids ready for school through the learning through play teaching method at its Early Childhood Learning Centers.

Research shows children who primarily attended day care, preschool and other types of center-based care in the year before kindergarten earned higher scores in math and reading and had stronger learning and cognitive flexibility skills than their peers who had no such early care and education arrangements. YMCA Early Childhood Learning Centers provide quality, affordable and nurturing full-day childcare and education for children age six weeks to five years, focusing on developing their intellectual, social, emotional and physical skills. At Y Early Childhood Learning Centers (ECLC), 98 percent of students with at least one year at Y ECLC’s surpass school district kindergarten readiness standards.

“The Y is committed to preparing every child for kindergarten and letting them explore their world and learn through play,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YMCA for the Greater Twin Cities. “Our team of child care experts meet the needs of every child to ensure they thrive in their next stage of life.”

From basic values comes a childcare experience designed to develop a child’s potential through creative, intellectual, emotional, social and physical skills while they grow. The Y’s Learning Through Play method is based on children learning through interaction and exploration because playing is learning.

Young children learn best through play and interaction. The Y uses The Creative Curriculum ® as the learning foundation to create the best programs with purposeful educational activities designed to:

Stimulate critical thinking skills
Develop creativity
Enhance learning
Develop language skills
Develop problem-solving skills
Develop communication effectiveness

The Y’s Early Childhood Learning programs, which have earned national accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), is 4 Star Parent Aware and licensed by the State of Minnesota, give kids the chance to explore freely through:

sensory activities that help with math and science comprehension
arts and humanities projects that develop fine motor skills
physical activities and nutritious food to encourage healthy habits
swimming and water safety classes in a safe aquatic environment
enrichment opportunities, including music & movement classes and an introduction to languages like Spanish or American Sign Language

These activities help to develop skills like critical thinking, communication and creativity. The Y offers a warm and welcoming environment in which every child can thrive. Most importantly, children have a place to grow with the guidance of caring adults while their parents are at work.

Learn more about how YMCA Early Childhood Learning Centers prepare children for school - Getting Kids Ready for School

Discover how YMCA Early Childhood Learning Centers set the foundation for school success – Prepare Your Child for Kindergarten

Find out more about the importance of play in learning - Why Do Kids Play?

There are currently 12 YMCA Early Childhood Learning Centers including two new centers in Lakeville and Rochester.

Because the YMCA is a leading nonprofit committed to helping all young people and their families thrive, financial assistance is available to those in need. To learn more about the Y’s programs, please visit ymcamn.org.

YMCA Camp St. Croix Hosts Annual Prairie Burn Music Festival on September 14 to Help Send Kids to Camp

jeffrey.needham — Mon, 19 Aug 2019 16:18:37 +0000

YMCA Camp St. Croix Hosts Annual Prairie Burn Music Festival on September 14 to Help Send Kids to Camp jeffrey.needham Mon, 08/19/2019 - 11:18

Live Music Acts Include Har Mar Superstar, Yam Haus, Haley Bonar and More

Hudson, WI—The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, and Royal Credit Union Foundation co-host the fifth annual Prairie Burn Music Festival on Saturday, September 14. Proceeds benefit the YMCA Camp Endowment Fund that helps make life changing camp experiences accessible to all for many years to come.

The fifth annual Prairie Burn Music Festival at Camp St. Croix in Hudson, Wisconsin, will feature live music acts, including Har Mar Superstar, Yam Haus, Haley Bonar and more. Camping is hosted by REI, food trucks will be on site, and camp games and activities for all ages will take place throughout the day. All net proceeds will help ensure every kid has the chance to experience camp.

“Everyone should go to camp because it teaches you to show respect to everyone, even if you’re different from them,” said nine-year old Damien from the Boys Outdoor Leadership Development program at Camp St. Croix.

“What started as a way to help raise funds for the YMCA Camp Endowment Fund, has emerged as a can’t-miss fall festival to celebrate great music, community and the spirit of camp,” said Jillian Nodland, volunteer and co-chair of the Prairie Burn Music Festival. “The unique combination of music and activities geared towards both kids and adults means this event is truly something everyone can enjoy.”

“The YMCA connects everyone in our community with opportunities to grow by working to eliminate barriers to participation in our programs,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YMCA of the North. “Events like the Prairie Burn Music Festival and our partnership with the Royal Credit Union Foundation raise funds so that campers in need of financial assistance can learn and lead at camp.”

Who: YMCA of the North and Royal Credit Union Foundation

What: Prairie Burn Music Festival

When: Saturday, September 14, 2019 from Noon – 10:00 p.m.

Where: YMCA Camp St. Croix at 532 County Road F in Hudson, WI 54016

Tickets: Tickets available online at ymcamn.org/prairieburn. Adult tickets are only $35 and $5 per child. More details are available at ymcamn.org/prairieburn or on Facebook.

Camping: Camping is $40 and includes breakfast. Visit the website for full camping details.

About the YMCA of the North

The YMCA of the North is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Established 16 years ago, the Ys provide life-strengthening services across 12 counties of the greater Twin Cities metro region, southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin communities. The 28 Y locations and program sites, eight overnight camps, 10 day camps, and more than 90 child care sites engage more than 370,000 men, women and children of all ages, incomes and backgrounds. To learn more about the Y’s mission and work, visit www.ymcamn.org.

About the Royal Credit Union Foundation

The Royal Credit Union Foundation (Foundation) was established in 2013 to create a positive impact in the communities Royal Credit Union serves. The Foundation exists to improve the lives of Royal’s Members and their neighbors by funding impactful and lasting projects. The Foundation supports organizations located in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Currently, it has awarded over $2.3 million in grants.

YMCA CycleHealth Hosts Annual BreakAway Kids Tri and New BreakAway Splash & Dash on August 16-17

jeffrey.needham — Mon, 12 Aug 2019 19:40:13 +0000

YMCA CycleHealth Hosts Annual BreakAway Kids Tri and New BreakAway Splash & Dash on August 16-17 jeffrey.needham Mon, 08/12/2019 - 14:40

Maple Grove, MN – CycleHealth, an initiative of the YMCA of the North which is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, will host its annual BreakAway Kids Tri on Saturday, August 17, and the new BreakAway Splash and & Dash on Friday, August 16, at Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove.

For the first time, kids have a shorter life expectancy than their parents due to factors such as a sedentary lifestyle and declining participation in organized sports. Local pediatricians in more than 50 clinics are collaborating with CycleHealth to change this trend by prescribing fun, unique activities, including the BreakAway Kids Tri and BreakAway Splash & Dash. At Saturday’s BreakAway Tri, two course distances are offered so kids of all abilities can swim, bike and run to the finish line. Both course options feature fun obstacles, including a bubble machine and a giant slip and slide, along the way. At Friday’s BreakAway Splash & Dash, racers will swim 100 yards and run a mile on a course filled with fun obstacles.

"It's great to prescribe something fun and healthy rather than medication when working with youth on their wellbeing,” said Dr. Tracy Hall of South Lake Pediatrics. “Kids love CycleHealth events and families are energized to be healthier together.”

“The YMCA and CycleHealth are proud to work with community partners to provide unique wellness opportunities for kids,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the Y. “When we empower young people to develop healthy habits early, we set them up for future success.”

WHO:
YMCA of the North CycleHealth and the Three River Parks District
350 racers at the BreakAway Splash & Dash and 800 racers at the BreakAway Kids Tri

WHAT:
BreakAway Kids Tri and BreakAway Splash & Dash by CycleHealth

WHERE:
Elm Creek Park Reserve at 12400 James Deane Parkway in Maple Grove, MN 55369

WHEN:
BreakAway Splash & Dash on Friday, August 16 from 6:30 - 8 p.m.
BreakAway Kids Tri on Saturday, August 17 from 7:00 - 11:30 a.m. (Racing begins at 9:00 a.m. and finishes around 10:45 a.m.)

About the YMCA of the North

THE Sheridan Story and YMCA Partner to Provide Nutritious Food During August Food Gap

jeffrey.needham — Mon, 05 Aug 2019 20:25:13 +0000

THE Sheridan Story and YMCA Partner to Provide Nutritious Food During August Food Gap jeffrey.needham Mon, 08/05/2019 - 15:25

Minneapolis, MN – The Sheridan Story and the YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, are partnering to provide free, nourishing food to families in the community to ensure youth have food in August before school starts.

A little-known but significant food gap exists in August when summer school has ended, but the school year has yet to begin. Many children who rely on the free and reduced meal programs at school find themselves with limited access to nutritious meals.

To fill this food gap, The Sheridan Story has prepared 10,000 bags of food that will be available throughout the community. From August 9 through August 30, families can stop by the front desk at any YMCA of the North location, as well as a few additional partner locations, and ask for a free bag of food. YMCA membership is not required. Supplies are limited.

“We are grateful to partner with The Sheridan Story to ensure all of our families in our community have access to food during summer break and no child goes hungry,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YMCA of the North. “The YMCA is committed to working with community partners to address the more than 200,000 children in Minnesota who live with food insecurity by providing education, access and support.”

“Many children don’t have access to food in August when summer school is over and the new school year hasn’t started yet,” said Rob Williams, executive director of The Sheridan Story. “In fact, more than 15 percent of the children in Minnesota face empty kitchen cupboards. We are fortunate to partner with the YMCA and other partners to close the summer break food gap.”

For more information, visit https://www.thesheridanstory.org/

WHO: The YMCA of the North and The Sheridan Story

WHAT: To ensure youth and their families have nutritious food during August before school starts, the community can get a free bag of food while supplies last.

WHERE: Ask at the front desk of any YMCA of the North location for the bag of food. For additional locations, visit www.thesheridanstory.org/

WHEN: August 9 through August 30 and please check www.thesheridanstory.org/ for specific hours.

About the YMCA of the North

The YMCA of the North is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Established 163 years ago, the Ys provide life-strengthening services across the greater Twin Cities metro region, southeastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin communities. The 29 Y locations and program sites, eight overnight camps, 10 day camps, and more than 90 child care sites engage more than 370,000 men, women and children of all ages, incomes and backgrounds. To learn more about the Y’s mission and work, visit www.ymcamn.org.

About The Sheridan Story

Over 200,000 children in Minnesota live in food insecurity – they don’t always know if they’ll have food for their next meal. In order to fight this devastating reality, The Sheridan Story focuses on the food gaps, the times throughout the year when children aren’t able to receive free and reduced meal programs at school. In the last six years, The Sheridan Story has grown from serving one school with a weekend food program to implementing multiple food gap programs serving over 9,700 children across 271 locations. This June, they embarked on their biggest effort yet during the summer, to provide 100,000 meals to children in our community.