Pennsylvania State Alliance of YMCAs

What an exciting journey this has been!

There's still time to register for our 2nd Annual Race at the beautiful Weiser State Forest! 🌲 Registration will also be available day-of in the form of cash or check. https://lnkd.in/eqmkuu3x

Thank you to our friends at Barley Snyder for their participation and sponsorship of our Scott Kimmel Memorial Golf Outing last month. The support of this outing contributes to funding our mission work and programs, including Membership for All, Chronic Disease Management, and more.

Summer Smiles Start Here! YMCA Summer camp is special place where kids come together to create lasting memories and form lifelong friendships. Proud to partner with Upper Darby School District for summer fun and learning! #HereforGood #ForABetterUs #BeCauseY

Excited to welcome Verónica López to Team YGBW! “My background is a natural fit for the YMCA,” López said. “The YMCA of Greater Brandywine is committed to serving all in the community – as am I. It is energizing to put my healthcare expertise to use with an organization that aligns with my values – especially at a time when the Y is expanding fitness-related health services to help heal the community."

As I wrap up my seventh year at the YMCA Conference on National Affairs, I would like to share with you all the work and achievements of our Pennsylvania team. Each year, Pennsylvania selects 25 delegates and one media delegate to represent our state among 600+ students from around the country while they present their proposals to make a meaningful national/international change. As a program alumna, nothing touches my heart more than our group of students coming together to advance their ideas not only as individuals, but as a team. This 2024 PA Delegation truly set the standard for teamwork and senior leadership. Read below about our accomplishments this week: Miriam Spak (Obama Academy) passed her proposal to regulate and research solar geoengineering through the General Assembly. Rashid Ibrahim (Middletown Area High School) passed his proposal to regulate the usage of custodial accounts for minors through the Final Plenary Session. Our very own Executive Director, Greg Rudder, was awarded the Paul Grist Award. This is only awarded to one adult volunteer yearly that has dedicated themselves to the betterment of the Conference and our delegates. We could not be more grateful for his leadership both in Pennsylvania and nationwide. Kailey Reinboth (Boyertown YMCA) was recognized as a Distinguished Delegate for her character and commitment to furthering the mission of Youth and Government and the YMCA. Rashid Ibrahim (Middletown) and Robert Staresinic (Rose E. Schneider YMCA) were recognized as Outstanding Statesman. This award is only given to 30 students out of over 600 in recognition of both their ability to debate with skill and their poise in doing so. Finally, Robert Staresinic (Rose E. Schneider) was selected as one of 6 Alternate Presiding Officers to accompany the 6 selected Presiding Officers. Alternates may be called up to serve if one of the 6 POs are unable to attend. We are so incredibly proud of our team this year. Join the State YMCA of PA in celebrating and congratulating this phenomenal group of PA delegates! 

We'd like to extend the most heartfelt of congratulations to our friend Eric Rothermel for his recent promotion to Vice President of Government Relations at the Harrisburg Area YMCA. Eric – thank you for your limitless dedication to the Y and our community! ----------- Eric began his Y career shortly after graduating from Lock Haven University. Eric served as an intern at the YMCA of the Rockies before moving back to his hometown and diving into his professional career with the Harrisburg Area YMCA. Eric started as a Youth Program Coordinator with the Northern Dauphin County Branch YMCA before discovering his passion for prevention programs and YMCA advocation. Eric has worked with the PA State Alliance of YMCAs, serving on their Government Action Committee and enhancing the relationships that the Y has with local, county, state, and federal government officials. Another dream came true for Eric when he was given the opportunity to serve as the Vice President of Government Relations for the Harrisburg Area YMCA, where he hopes to continue tenaciously advocating for youth and overall community wellness across the state.

Camps are mandated reporters of child abuse. These resources offer tips to camps for identifying child abuse and what to do if you suspect a child is being abused. https://bit.ly/3XMZPwr

Congratulations on receiving the Lifetime of Service Award, Bill Shipley! 💚 We are incredibly proud of your achievements within our communities over the years. 👏

The YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties announced a merger with Greater Valley YMCA, operating as River Crossing YMCA, led by president and CEO Zane Moore. Read it here: https://hubs.la/Q02FdztS0