Blog
Announcing the Fall 2023 DPP Cohort

Are you ready to take charge of your health and make lasting changes to prevent diabetes? The Fall 2023 Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is here to guide you on a journey toward a healthier lifestyle. Whether you prefer in-person interactions or the convenience of virtual sessions, this program, available at 10 participating New Jersey YMCA Associations, is designed to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to prevent diabetes. In this article, we'll explore valuable diabetes prevention tips and how the DPP can be your partner in this important endeavor.
NJ Human Services Awards $3.25 Million in Additional Grants to Create Inclusive Healthy Communities

(TRENTON) – Commissioner Sarah Adelman today announced the Department has awarded an additional 13 grants to help organizations across the state implement inclusive initiatives that support individuals with disabilities in the communities in which they live, work, learn, and play.
Celebrating the Stories and Accomplishments of Black Leaders Within the Y Movement
The history of the YMCA – like the history of the United States – is a story of incremental progress toward greater inclusion and equity for all. As we celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth, we are honoring the stories of Black leaders who helped move the Y – and America – forward.
Today's Front Pages at Newseum features Healthy Kids Day
Home News Tribune front page story about Healthy Kids Day is featured in Newseum's "Today's Front Pages"
Bunks Are Good for Brains: The Neuroscience of Sleepaway Camp
When I visit a camp and consult with the leadership team there, I usually have two main messages. Number one: Whether you know it or not, you’re significantly impacting the brains of the young people you work with every summer. In fact, it turns out that the things that build the brain and are best for kids’ development are also the very things that are important for running a successful camp with high camper and counselor retention and successful recruitment. And number two: If you know just a few basic facts about the brain, you can be even better at everything I just mentioned. Knowing just a little about the science of how the brain changes in response to experiences, particularly relational experiences, can help camps be even more successful — in all kinds of ways.
Day Camp - Fun is Right Around the Corner
- So, your child is ready for camp but you're not sure she is prepared for overnights away from home . . . .
- There's a wonderful day camp that your son's school friends have been enjoying for years — it's in a park near your home . . . .
- Your mother is staying with you this summer, and you don't want the grandchildren to miss an important chance to visit . . . .
- The ballet school your daughter attends is offering a summer camp program filled with outdoor activities, crafts, and dance instruction . . . .
Camp Defines and Develops Character
Character development is tricky. It isn’t something that can be learned from a textbook or in a lecture — it is learned through teachable moments and experiences. So where can families turn to help provide the right environment for character development? Families can go camping.
The Boy in The Boat - Life Lessons Learned At Camp
As summer begins, parents are finalizing post-school plans for their children.Often, those schedules will include camp for a week, a month, or more.Some kids will attend day programs, others will enjoy overnight experiences.Their activities may be specialized, or include a little bit of most anything. Regardless of the exact ingredients, these children will learn the true meaning of what summer camp is all about.
We can change the world. And we can do it together.
On January 10-12, 2014, over 1500 student descended on Hershey, Pennsylvania for the YMCA Model UN Conference. Read more to hear from Kellie, a 3rd year participant.
Start Off ‘Small’ When Setting New Year’s Resolutions
The New Year is a time for new beginnings and to set goals that strengthen one’s spirit, mind and body.