Greater Scranton YMCA Receives Grant from The Les Paul Foundation The Greater Scranton YMCA is among a select group to receive a grant from the Les Paul Foundation for its Music Education and Guitar Lesson Program for children enrolled in the Y’s Before and After School Program. The program will combine music education with hands-on guitar lessons, giving students the opportunity to explore their creativity while building self-confidence through the power of music. “At the Y, we believe in nurturing the potential of every child and teen, and music is a powerful tool for that growth,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “Music education inspires creativity, builds confidence, and gives young people a voice. Through programs like this, rooted in our core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, we’re creating safe, inclusive spaces where youth can thrive, belong, and discover who they are. This is how we strengthen our communities and live out our mission each day.” For more information about the Music Education and Guitar Lesson Program at the Greater Scranton YMCA, contact Brandon Whipple, Senior Program Director, at bwhipple@gsymca.org.
Greater Scranton YMCA Celebrates National Mentoring Month January is National Mentoring Month, and the Greater Scranton YMCA is proud to recognize the incredible impact mentors have on young people in our community. With 1 in 3 young people growing up without a mentor, the Y is committed to ensuring that all youth have access to caring adults who can provide support, encouragement, and guidance. “At the YMCA, mentorship is at the heart of what we do,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO of the Greater Scranton YMCA. “Whether it’s through afterschool programs, youth sports, or leadership development opportunities, mentors help kids build confidence, achieve their goals, and feel like they belong.” The Greater Scranton YMCA is proud to offer youth sports, enrichment, educational, and mental health and wellbeing programs that provide mentorship opportunities for children. Community members are encouraged to get involved during National Mentoring Month by: Volunteering as a mentor with the Y Enrolling youth in programs that provide positive mentorship Supporting YMCA programs that strengthen youth development For more information about volunteer mentoring opportunities at the Greater Scranton YMCA, contact Meghan Carnevale, Mission Advancement & Marketing Director, at mcarnevale@gsymca.org.
Greater Scranton YMCA: Join the Y for $0 for Health and Connection As the new year begins, the Greater Scranton YMCA invites individuals and families to discover the power of belonging. The Y is a place where people come together to grow stronger in body, mind, and spirit. From group fitness classes to youth programs, swim lessons to volunteer opportunities, the Y offers something for everyone. But what makes it truly special is the sense of connection that forms when people from all walks of life share space and purpose. “At the Greater Scranton YMCA, we witness daily how connections spark, confidence builds, and communities flourish,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “The Y isn’t only about the activities you take part in; it’s about the people you share them with.” Membership at the Y means joining a movement that’s been strengthening our community for more than 165 years. Whether you’re looking to get active, give back, or simply find your people, there’s a place for you here. Join the Y now and pay a $0 join fee! Start the year strong with connection, community, and wellness. Visit https://www.greaterscrantonymca.org/ or stop by the Greater Scranton YMCA, located at 706 North Blakely Street in Dunmore.
Greater Scranton YMCA Hosting 2026 Winter Clothing Drive The Greater Scranton YMCA is proud to announce its upcoming Winter Clothing Drive, which is being held to support individuals and families throughout our community during the coldest months of the year. The Y will collect donations of new and gently used men’s, women’s, children’s, and infant’s clothing from January 5–7, 2026. Following the donation period, all collected items will be made available at no cost to community members from January 12–14, 2026. Clothing will be offered in a wide range of sizes, ensuring support for people of all ages. “The Winter Clothing Drive is part of our ongoing commitment to strengthen the foundations of our community,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “When neighbors help neighbors, everyone benefits. We’re grateful to all who donate and help keep local families warm this winter.” The Winter Clothing Drive is open to the entire community, not just Greater Scranton YMCA members. The Y encourages residents to spread the word to anyone who may benefit from free winter clothing. Donation Drop-Off Dates: January 5–7, 2026 Clothing Pick-Up Dates: January 12–14, 2026 For questions about clothing donations and/or pick-up, please contact Tressa Capoccia, Education Director, at tcapoccia@gsymca.org.
YMCA Offering Community Week Free Trial The Greater Scranton YMCA is calling on individuals and families across the community to experience what it means to truly belong. The Y is a place where people come together to grow stronger in body, mind, and spirit. From group fitness classes to youth sports, from swim lessons to volunteer opportunities, the Y offers something for everyone. But what makes it truly special is the sense of connection that forms when people from all walks of life share space and purpose. “At the Greater Scranton YMCA, we see every day how friendships form, confidence grows, and communities thrive,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “It’s not just about what you do here, it’s about who you do it with.” Membership at the Y means joining a movement that’s been strengthening our community for more than 165 years. Whether you’re looking to get active, give back, or simply find your people, there’s a place for you here. This December, the community and those interested are invited to try the Y free for 7 days! Experience everything the Y has to offer with no commitment, just connection. Visit https://www.greaterscrantonymca.org/ or stop by the Y, located at 706 North Blakely St. in Dunmore, to start the free trial today.
YMCA Announces 2025 Jingle Bell Jog The Greater Scranton YMCA invites runners, walkers, families, and holiday enthusiasts to join the fun at the 2025 Jingle Bell Jog, taking place on Saturday, December 13, with a 9:00 a.m. start time at the Y. The 2nd Annual Jingle Bell Jog features a 5K Run and 1-Mile Walk, offering something for participants of all ages and fitness levels. Runners and walkers are encouraged to embrace the holiday spirit by wearing their favorite festive attire. The first 50 registrants will receive a free t-shirt. Proceeds from the event benefit the Y’s Financial Assistance Program, which helps ensure that everyone, regardless of age, background, or income, has access to the Y. “We are excited for the 2025 Jingle Bell Jog to bring our community together in a fun and festive way,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “During this season of giving, the Greater Scranton YMCA is so proud to provide financial assistance to children, adults, and families from our community and this will event will support our efforts.” Participants can register online at https://runsignup.com/scrantonymcajinglebelljog or at the Y, located at 706 North Blakely Street in Dunmore. The cost for participants over the age of 12 is $25 and there is no charge for participants 12-years-old and under. Same day registration is available for $35. Day of race check-in and packet pick-up will be open from 8:00-8:45 a.m. and an awards ceremony will take place at approximately 10:00 a.m. For more information, please contact Jennifer Dolphin, Race Coordinator, at dolphinjennifer7@gmail.com.
YMCA Announces 2025 Jingle Bell Jog The Greater Scranton YMCA invites runners, walkers, families, and holiday enthusiasts to join the fun at the 2025 Jingle Bell Jog, taking place on Saturday, December 13, with a 9:00 a.m. start time at the Y. The 2nd Annual Jingle Bell Jog features a 5K Run and 1-Mile Walk, offering something for participants of all ages and fitness levels. Runners and walkers are encouraged to embrace the holiday spirit by wearing their favorite festive attire. The first 50 registrants will receive a free t-shirt. Proceeds from the event benefit the Y’s Financial Assistance Program, which helps ensure that everyone, regardless of age, background, or income, has access to the Y. “We are excited for the 2025 Jingle Bell Jog to bring our community together in a fun and festive way,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “During this season of giving, the Greater Scranton YMCA is so proud to provide financial assistance to children, adults, and families from our community and this will event will support our efforts.” Participants can register online at https://runsignup.com/scrantonymcajinglebelljog or at the Y, located at 706 North Blakely Street in Dunmore. The cost for participants over the age of 12 is $25 and there is no charge for participants 12-years-old and under. Same day registration is available for $35. Day of race check-in and packet pick-up will be open from 8:00-8:45 a.m. and an awards ceremony will take place at approximately 10:00 a.m. For more information, please contact Jennifer Dolphin, Race Coordinator, at dolphinjennifer7@gmail.com.
Greater Scranton YMCA Awarded BK5K Youth Grant On October 9, 2025, the Greater Scranton YMCA received a grant award of $2,000 from the BK5K Youth Fund of the Winona Community Foundation. Funds will support the continued development of youth programs at the Y. From left: Marcelo DeSousa, Regional Operations Manager, Fastenal; Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA; Meghan Carnevale, Mission Advancement & Marketing Director, Greater Scranton YMCA; Whitney McDonald, SHUB Help Desk Manager, Fastenal
Greater Scranton YMCA Halloween Costume Drive Underway The Y is collecting new and gently used Halloween costumes for local families The Greater Scranton YMCA’s 2025 Halloween Costume Drive is underway, providing families in the community with the opportunity to donate and receive costumes for the upcoming holiday. The Y is accepting new and gently used costumes of all sizes and for all ages. Donated costumes can be dropped-off at the Y’s Welcome Center, located at 706 North Blakely Street in Dunmore, through Monday, October 6th. Costume pick-up days will be held from October 7–9, giving families in need the chance to find fun, festive costumes free of charge. “Here at the Y, we believe all children deserve the chance to experience a magical Halloween season,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “Through donating new or gently used costumes, community members can help make this Halloween special and memorable for local families and children in need.” The Greater Scranton YMCA is encouraging the community to participate by donating costumes in good condition. Every contribution ensures that more children will have the opportunity to experience Halloween with confidence and excitement. For more information about the Halloween Costume Drive, contact Tressa Capoccia, Senior Education Director, at tcapoccia@gsymca.org.
Greater Scranton YMCA Hosting Inaugural Trunk or Treat The Greater Scranton YMCA is excited to announce its Inaugural Trunk or Treat, offering families a safe, fun, and festive way to celebrate Halloween. The event will take place on Wednesday, October 22nd from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the Greater Scranton YMCA, 706 North Blakely Street, Dunmore. The event is free and open to the community. Community members and local businesses and organizations are encouraged to participate by decorating a trunk and handing out candy. Interested partners can contact Tressa Capoccia, Senior Education Director, at tcapoccia@gsymca.org. Trunks can begin being set-up at 3:00 p.m. on the day of the event. “The Greater Scranton YMCA is so proud to offer our community a safe way to celebrate the season,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “We can’t wait to see the creative ways families and community partners decorate their trunks and look forward to the memories this new tradition will create.” For more information about the Trunk or Treat, contact Tressa or visit the Greater Scranton YMCA online at https://www.greaterscrantonymca.org/.
