 |
 |
|
Feel that? That's our Pulse — here's the beats of July at the Y. Enjoy!
|
|
|
|
The Fire Was Lit — Literally 🔥
|
 |
|
Camp Mataucha came alive on July 22 for Campfire Across America — a one-night nationwide YMCA celebration of connection, community, and belonging. Families toured the grounds, hiked the trails, climbed the tower, roasted marshmallows, and got a real feel for where summer memories are made.
A huge thank you to every family who came out, and to the Camp Mataucha staff for showing up and showing out. If you missed it — there's always next summer. 🏕
|
|
|
|
A SPACE THAT FEELS LIKE SAFETY 💙
|
 |
|
A waiting room might seem small — but for a child walking into the CAC after a traumatic experience, it's everything. On July 8, we celebrated the transformation of the Child Advocacy Center's waiting room into something warm, calming, and welcoming: soft colors, stuffed animals, toys, and artwork that say you're safe here before a single word is spoken.
The renovation was made possible by Post University, the support of the Greater Waterbury YMCA, and donations from CAC team members and dedicated volunteers.
The Child Advocacy Center (CAC) of Greater Waterbury is a child-focused, community-based center providing trauma-informed care for children and families who have experienced abuse, violence, and other critical incidents — offering forensic interviews, medical exams, mental health services, victim advocacy, and more.
|
|
|
|
13 YEARS AND STILL SHOWING UP ✨
|
 |
YCONs are the pulse of our Y — members, volunteers, staff, and community partners who truly live the mission.
And our latest YCON? She's been living it for 13 years and counting.
Meet Phyllis Lucas-Coleman, Assistant Director of Child Development, who started as an Assistant Teacher and worked her way up through dedication, heart, and a whole lot of love for the children and families she serves.
|
|
|
Phyllis, what does community mean to you?
| "Community means coming together to support, encourage, and care for one another. It is about building meaningful relationships, creating a sense of belonging, and working together to make a positive impact. In my role at the YMCA, community is reflected in the partnerships we build with children, families, and staff every day. Together, we help children grow, strengthen families, and create a place where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and supported." |
|
|
The Y in one word is…
| "Great! We work together as a team, support one another, and strive to keep our commitment in helping our children, families, and community." |
|
|
Think you know a YCON? Maybe it's you.
Nominate someone (or yourself!) by reaching out to Justin at jmontanez@waterburyymca.org.
|
|
|
|
COMMUNITY IS PREVENTION 🧡
|
|
The Waterbury Community Field Day & Concert was one for the books — and the energy was unmatched.
|
 |
|
Co-organized by Waterbury Youth Services, Waterbury PAL, Waterbury Community Mental Health Affiliates (CMHA), and the City of Waterbury Recreation Department, the afternoon brought youth and families together for field day competitions, great food, door prizes, and an incredible concert. All of it rooted in something bigger: gun violence prevention through community connection.
When we invest in our young people, we build a safer, healthier Waterbury.
Thank you to every sponsor, volunteer, partner, and family who showed up. 🧡
|
|
|
|
|
|
SHE CHOSE THE HARDEST ROOM AND MADE IT LOOK EASY 🍼
|
 |
Kyah is a natural with infants and toddlers — and it shows in every relationship she builds with the children and families in her care. She brings genuine love to the classroom every day, leads with quiet strength across both the infant and toddler rooms, and never stops growing professionally.
Dedicated, compassionate, and always ready to step up — Kyah is exactly who you want in a room full of little ones.
Congratulations, Kyah Pettaway — our July Teacher of the Month! 🎉
|
|
|
|
|
PEE-WEE PROM 2026 👑✨
|
 |
|
Dancing, awards, photos, and memories — our Kindergarten graduates showed out in style. It was a special afternoon full of joy, and we couldn't be prouder of every single one of them.
A huge thank you to Miss Phyllis for coordinating the whole thing, and to our incredible teachers who poured their hearts into every detail — from the beautiful backdrops and centerpieces to making each child feel like the star they are. To our future kindergarteners — next stop, graduation! 🤍 😭 ✨
|
And to our generous community partners who helped make it all happen:
McDonald's (Thomaston Ave. & Chase Ave.)
Amalfi Restaurant
D'Amelio's Restaurant
Stop & Shop (Reidville Dr. & Wolcott St.) |
|
|
|
|
BACK 2 SCHOOL. BACK TO THE Y!
Back to school is around the corner — and the Y is ready when you are.
|
 |
Grades K–5
SCHOOL-AGE CHILD CARE
Before & after school care serving Waterbury and Watertown Public Schools. Registration closes August 7 — first day is August 31. Missed the window? Submit anyway and Shavone will follow up.
Ages 2.8–5
PRESCHOOL
Full-day program with Before & After Care, Monday–Friday. First day is August 24. Limited spots — rolling admission.
|
|
|
Financial assistance available through Care4Kids and the Y's own Open Doors program for those who qualify. Ready looks good on you. So does registering on time. 😉
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Thursday, August 20 | 11a – 4p
AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE
@ YMCA Gymnasium
|
|
|
|
 |
Thursday, August 20 | 12p – 2p
BACK TO SCHOOL RALLY
@ Fulton Park
|
|
|
|
 |
| Group Fitness | Registrations | Programs | Contact Us | Give |
Let's be social
|
Greater Waterbury YMCA
136 West Main Street, Waterbury, CT 06702 | 203-754-9622
We like to connect in ways that work for you: Manage Email Preferences |
