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/.
Greater Scranton YMCA to Host Summer Clothing Drive WHAT: The Greater Scranton YMCA is hosting a clothing drive for individuals and families in need. This initiative highlights the seasonal needs of underserved individuals and families and offers an opportunity for community members to make a meaningful impact. Donations of new and gently used clothing for men, women, children, and infants will be accepted and made available to those in need. WHEN: Clothing Donation Drop-Off Dates: Monday, July 21st through Friday, July 25th Clothing Drive Dates: Monday, July 28th through Friday, August 1st WHERE: GREATER SCRANTON YMCA 706 North Blakely Street Dunmore, PA 18512 QUESTIONS: For questions, contact Tressa Capoccia, Senior Director of Education, at tcapoccia@gsymca.org.
Make The Greater Scranton YMCA Your Family Fun Destination This Summer Get ready for an unforgettable summer at the Greater Scranton YMCA. With a diverse range of exciting programs and activities, the Y is the ultimate destination for families seeking fun, fitness and connection this summer. Whether you’re searching for activities to keep your children active and engaged during the summer months or looking for a place to enjoy the warm weather together, the Y has you covered. There is still one week left to redeem a free one-week trial to the Y this June. Free trial memberships are available to individuals and families and grants community members access to all the Y has to offer, including the wellness center, gyms, pools, land & water group exercise classes, and more. Trial memberships are available to non-members and must be redeemed at the Y’s facility. Click to learn about additional program opportunities available at the Y this season: Summer Day Camp – The 2025 Summer Day Camp season is officially underway. Click to review to the parent handbook and more camp information. Pool Time – The Y features two pools within its facility. Click to review the pool schedules, as well as additional aquatics programming. Employment Opportunities – Full-time and part-time employment opportunities are available across various departments. Special Events – This summer, the Greater Scranton YMCA is hosting a Summer Clothing Drive, Hawaiian Hula Hustle 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk, and a Fall Craft Fair. Additionally, the Y is the beneficiary of the 6th Annual Harry P. McGrath Memorial Golf Tournament & Dinner Celebration, which is being held on Friday, September 19th at Glen Oak County Club. Youth Programs – The Greater Scranton YMCA offers various youth programs that rotate each month. Programs are free for family members. “Join us at the Greater Scranton YMCA this summer as we embark on a season of laughter, learning and cherished memories,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. We welcome everyone in our community to come and discover what the Y has to offer!”
The Greater Scranton YMCA Seeking Marketing Firm for Caring Communities Release Date: June 18, 2025 Proposal Deadline: July 16, 2025 (5:00 PM EST) Contract Value: $10,000 per year (2 years) – Total $20,000 Project Overview The Greater Scranton YMCA, through generous grant funding from the Moses Taylor Foundation, is seeking proposals from qualified, smaller sized marketing firms based in Northeastern Pennsylvania to assist in the strategic promotion and communication of its Caring Communities for Mental Health program. This two-year initiative, which is part of the Greater Scranton YMCA’s broader YMCA Wellbeing Initiative, expands free, community- based mental health services across multiple counties, with a strong focus on underserved and/or marginalized populations. This RFP represents a $10,000/year contract over a two-year period, designed to maximize reach, engagement, and program impact. Program Goals The Caring Communities for Mental Health program aims to: Expand access to free mental health support and case management services. Reduce barriers to care, especially for marginalized and underserved communities. Integrate evidence-based mental health/wellness programs and workshops (e.g., COPE, R1 Learning System). Raise awareness through culturally relevant, inclusive messaging and outreach with our community partners and stakeholders. Scope of Work The selected firm will provide the following deliverables: Marketing Strategy Development A two-year marketing plan aligned with grant objectives. Branding and messaging tailored to health equity and stigma reduction. Content Creation & Design Flyers, brochures, event materials, and signage (print & digital). Videos, reels, infographics and additional content to be used on the Y’s social platforms, website and with the community. Social Media & Digital Engagement Monthly content calendars, platform-specific assets, and ad campaign guidance. Community Visibility Support outreach campaigns to reach priority populations across Lackawanna and surrounding counties. Contract Period and Value Term: August 1, 2025 – July 31, 2027 Value: $10,000 annually; $20,000 total. Please note, this is a fixed-price contract funded through grant funding from the Moses Taylor Foundation. Eligibility Requirements Must be a registered small business based in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Demonstrated experience with nonprofit, health and/or mental health campaigns. Ability to collaborate closely with YMCA program and leadership staff, including marketing and program staff to ensure adherence to all YMCA of the USA branding guidelines and requirements. Must sign a sublicense agreement to gain access to YMCA trademarked materials. Proposal Requirements All proposals must include: 1. Cover Letter One-page max, inclusive of firm’s description of services, team bios and relevant experience. 2. Portfolio Samples At least three examples of previous work, ideally in community health or nonprofit marketing. 3. Approach & Work Plan Initial concepts or approach to support the YMCA’s grant goals. 4. Budget & Timeline Clear breakdown of services within the $10,000/year framework. 5. References Two client references with contact details. Submission Process Please submit all proposals via email (PDF format) to: Meghan Carnevale Mission Advancement & Marketing Director GREATER SCRANTON YMCA Email: mcarnevale@gsymca.org Subject Line: Marketing Proposal – Caring Communities Initiative Deadline: July 16, 2025 at 5:00 PM EST
The Greater Scranton YMCA Receives Grant for STEM Lab Creation From left to right: Tressa Capoccia, Rich Surridge, Leo McGowan, Meghan Carnevale The Greater Scranton YMCA was awarded a $25,000 grant from the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund. The grant will support the creation of a STEM Lab at the Y’s facility, which is located at 706 North Blakely Street in Dunmore. Through the creation of a STEM Lab, the Y will provide students enrolled in the School-Age Program, Summer Day Camp Program, and additional programming to be developed with the opportunity to learn, collaborate with peers, and practice problem-solving skills. The lab will give the Y an opportunity to engage children in learning experiences that integrate science, technology, engineering, and math while also fostering creativity. “We are so grateful to the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund for their support of our YMCA and of children’s education,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “We are excited to begin work on the creation of the STEM Lab and look forward to providing the growing number of children in our care with access to opportunities they may otherwise not have after the school day ends and over the summer months.” For more information about child care programs at the Greater Scranton YMCA, contact Tressa Capoccia, Senior Director of Education, at tcapoccia@gsymca.org or visit the Y online at www.greaterscrantonymca.org.
The Greater Scranton YMCA Recognizes Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month June is National Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. Worldwide, more than 55 million people are living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Did you know that studies have shown that physical activity and social connectedness reduce the risk of cognitive decline? At the Greater Scranton YMCA, we promote the importance of physical activity at any age! Just a little bit of activity can go a long way in helping improve brain health. Check out some of the great offerings at our Y below, which can be used a great start on anyone’s health and wellness journey: SILVER SNEAKERS & SENIOR YOGA Silver Sneakers focuses on strengthening muscles and increasing range of movement for daily life activities. Participants can use hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles and a Silver Sneakers ball. Often, a chair is used for seated exercises or standing support. Silver Sneakers is offered twice weekly. Senior Yoga is a specialized form of yoga perfect for older adults. This class is offered once a week at the Greater Scranton YMCA. SHALLOW & DEEP WATER EXERCISE Shallow Water Exercise class is a fun way to use the resistance of the water to improve cardiovascular fitness, strength and flexibility. Classes are a light to moderate aerobic workout. Deep Water Exercise class provides a great opportunity for people of all fitness abilities. This type of workout is non-weight bearing, which means it’s gentler on your body while remaining extremely beneficial to it. Shallow and Deep Water Exercise classes are offered weekly, as well as an Arthritis Water Exercise class. PICKLEBALL Pickleball is a fun and active way for adults to socialize. Pickleball is a paddleball sport that combines elements of badminton, table tennis and tennis. All skill levels are welcome and no experience is necessary. Paddles and balls are provided. Those interested in playing can join during open play time, which is offered three days a week at various times. Registration is not required. ENHANCE®FITNESS Enhance®Fitness is a proven, community-based fitness and arthritis management program. Its purpose is to help older adults become more active, energized and empowered for independent living. The program is recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, US Department of Health and Human Services, US Administration on Aging and the National Council on Aging. The Greater Scranton YMCA offers Enhance®Fitness sessions throughout the year. For more information, visit the Y online. PERSONAL TRAINING Training with our certified personal trainers is a great way to get in shape safely, efficiently and effectively. Personal trainers provide the motivation necessary for individuals to achieve their goals with regular fitness testing, personalized programming and accountability. In addition to classes and programs, beginning at 5:30 a.m., the Greater Scranton YMCA serves fresh coffee daily and invites members to connect and socialize in our welcoming teaching kitchen and café space. For more information about wellness programming at the Y, as well as class schedules, visit the Greater Scranton YMCA online at https://www.greaterscrantonymca.org/. For questions, please contact Brandon Whipple, Senior Program Director, at bwhipple@gsymca.org.
Greater Scranton YMCA Helps Combat Child Hunger with Summer Food Program As summer approaches, many families look forward to vacations and outdoor activities, but for others, putting food on the table is a daily struggle. The latest report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reveals that 47.4 million people, including 13.8 million children, faced food insecurity last year—a rise of 3.2 million from the year before. As the summer season arrives, it’s crucial to remember that access to nutritious meals is not guaranteed for all, highlighting the need for stronger support programs. According to the USDA, over 30 million kids receive free or reduced-cost meals thanks to the National School Lunch Program. However, once the school year ends, only 15 in 100 eligible kids have access to free, healthy meals and snacks over summer break, leaving many children to go without during the summer months. The Y is working to fill that gap and will help keep children healthy and well-nourished this summer, ensuring that kids reach their full potential. Children enrolled in Early Childhood Education Programs, including daycare, preschool and summer day camp, will receive both food and fun through nutritious meals and snacks, while also enjoying recreational and learning activities aimed at keeping bodies and minds active. Y sites across the country, including the Greater Scranton YMCA, will offer the Summer Food Program. While daycare and preschool operate year-round, the Summer Day Camp Program runs from June 9th through August 22nd. Thanks to the Summer Food Service Program and our sponsor, the Scranton School District, campers will receive a healthy lunch daily. This summer, the Greater Scranton YMCA is estimating to feed 225 children in Summer Day Camp and 250 in daycare and preschool here in our community. To learn more about the Greater Scranton YMCA’s Summer Day Camp, Early Childhood Education and Food Program, contact Tressa Capoccia at tcapoccia@gsymca.org or visit www.greaterscrantonymca.org. “Hunger has a lasting impact on the development of children,” says Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “Giving kids access to nutrition-filled meals allows kids to focus, learn and become empowered to reach their full potential. The Y’s Summer Food Program helps make sure kids can enjoy healthy and delicious meals and snacks all summer long.” During the Greater Scranton YMCA’s 2023-2024 fiscal year, 69,490 meals and snacks were served to children enrolled in summer camp, after school and early childhood education programs. This year marks the program’s thirteenth year and the Y’s ongoing commitment to helping kids achieve their full potential by nurturing their physical, mental and social- emotional development. During the school year, the Greater Scranton YMCA also serves healthy snacks in its afterschool program to provide kids with nourishment and academic enrichment.
Greater Scranton YMCA Receives Grant from Step Into Swim In September, the Greater Scranton YMCA was awarded a grant from Step Into Swim to support scholarships for swim lessons. Step Into Swim is the nationwide drowning prevention initiative of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) dedicated to creating safe swimmers. Through this grant award, the Y’s goal is to offer a session of swim lessons, which consists of eight lessons, to families who otherwise may not be able to participate due to cost. Grant funding will provide the YMCA with the capacity to offer participating families a 75 percent subsidy, making them responsible to pay only 25 percent of the swim lesson session fee. “We are so grateful to Step Into Swim for allowing our YMCA to provide swim lessons to more children in our community,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “We believe all kids should have the opportunity to learn the lifesaving skill of swimming and thanks to this grant award, we will be able to provide lessons to children who may otherwise not be able to participate due to cost.” To award the lessons, the Greater Scranton YMCA has created a Google Form that interested families can complete. In addition to collecting parent and child information, the form also includes questions about household income and family size to ensure the lessons are being awarded to families in need. The Google Form will open on Wednesday, May 28th and will close when lessons are filled. The form can be accessed here: https://forms.gle/Gt3Er3EG87sjH8nF6. The four-week swim lesson session will consist of two lessons weekly. The session will begin the week of June 23rd. For more information about the Step Into Swim scholarship swim lessons at the Greater Scranton YMCA, contact Leslie Kopa, Aquatics Director, at lkopa@gsymca.org.
Greater Scranton YMCA Tips for Safety around Water this Summer The Greater Scranton YMCA is offering tips for parents to keep kids safe in and around water this summer The Greater Scranton YMCA wants to ensure that water safety doesn’t get lost in our community’s eagerness to jump into summer. As temperatures rise, kids want to cool off, whether that is in home pools, ponds, lakes, rivers, streams, or oceans. And that means the risk of drowning is as prevalent as ever. For National Water Safety Month this May, the Greater Scranton YMCA is encouraging parents and caregivers to reinforce the importance of water safety skills with the whole family. “As ‘America’s Swim Instructor,’ the Greater Scranton YMCA annually teaches more than 1,500 children valuable water safety and swimming skills,” said Rich Surridge, President & CEO, Greater Scranton YMCA. “Now more than ever, it’s important to remind parents and caregivers that water safety needs to be top-of-mind as families start to return to their favorite summertime activities.” As part of National Water Safety Month, the Greater Scranton YMCA is encouraging parents to play an active role in promoting water safety and providing five tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable swimming experience for all. Make sure children know to always ask permission before going in or near the water. Teaching your children to be water smart is the first step in water safety – be sure they understand the importance of asking permission before going in or near the water. Never swim alone or without a water watcher. When children are swimming, make sure they are actively supervised at all times. Teach your children that they should only swim in locations where a lifeguard is on duty, or where a responsible adult agrees to watch the children in the water without distractions. Supervise your children whenever they’re in or near water. Whether it’s bath time or taking a dip in a pool or waterfront, make sure your children are within arm’s reach at all times. Don’t engage in breath holding activities. Both adults and children should not hold their breath for a prolonged amount of time while swimming, as this can be dangerous. Wear a life jacket. Inexperienced or non-swimmers should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Don’t jump in the water to save a friend who is struggling in deep water. If an adult or child finds their friend in deep water unexpectedly, their natural reaction may be to jump in the water to try to save them. Even if they are a great swimmer, a panicked person will overpower them, pulling the rescuer underwater. The Y’s Safety Around Water program teaches the “reach, throw, don’t go” concept of using a long object to reach for them and pull them to safety. By using this technique an adult or child can help their friend without compromising their own safety. Beginning June 9th, the Greater Scranton YMCA will once again offer its Annual Safety Around Water Campaign. The campaign gives children ages three through 14 the opportunity to learn new swimming skills designed to help keep them safe around water. The Safety Around Water Campaign consists of eight swim lessons over a two-week period, four lessons each week, and costs only $25 for both members and non-members. Registration opens Monday, May 12th. The Safety Around Water Campaign is once again supported by the Kiwanis Club of Scranton. To learn more about the Greater Scranton YMCA’s swim programs and Safety Around Water Campaign, please contact Leslie Kopa, Aquatics Director, at lkopa@gsymca.org.
