YMCA of Portsmouth

Fall sports are here! Everyone give a CHEER! ⚽🏈📢 Choose from Soccer (ages 3-18), Flag Football (ages 3-18), and Cheerleading (ages 3-18). The season kicks off on September 7th! Be sure to take advantage of our early bird rate and register before August 26th. ymcashr.org/sports

Ready to Lead a Healthier Life? The Y is hiring Group Exercise Instructors! No experience needed. Enjoy flexible hours, free Y membership and drop-in child care. Join our team today! https://loom.ly/MAqLVPc

Dionne moved to Hampton Roads in 2002 after completing her military service. Since finding the Y, her family has embraced swimming as a crucial part of their lives.

Malique, 19, started swimming lessons when he was 9-years-old. “He couldn’t swim at all, and decided to continue because he liked it,” said Dionne. Continuing to train at the Y, he eventually joined his high school swim team.

Malayia, 11, followed her brother’s lead, starting lessons when she was only 3. Forced to take a pause during the pandemic, she restarted lessons this January and is regaining skills and stamina. “I want them to be strong swimmers and to learn lifesaving techniques for their safety, and to help others in an emergency,” Dionne emphasized. “Swimming is also beneficial for their health and wellness.”

The Y’s positive environment has been crucial for the family. “I appreciate that my kids are around positive people at the Y. I like Malique being in that kind of environment,” said Dionne. “He is now lifeguarding at the Greenbrier Family YMCA. It’s a comfortable place to work because he has friends there.”

Dionne expressed immense pride in her son’s achievements, particularly as a person of color in a sport with limited representation. “Passing the lifeguarding test was difficult. He tried hard and kept practicing.” Dionne’s has a vision for her children. “I want my kids to have exposure to different experiences in life, to embrace diversity and enjoy different cultures. The Y represents this environment”

Inspired by her brother, Malayia is determined to become a strong swimmer. “She is building her skills and keeps going,” Dionne said.

Dionne’s commitment to her children’s swimming education stems from her own missed opportunities. “I didn’t have swim lessons when I was younger. If I had that exposure, I would be a swimmer."

For Dionne, swimming is essential, and she appreciates that the Y offers scholarships so that everyone has the opportunity to learn. “Every family should have swimming as a number one priority, just like going to school. Everyone should get the chance to learn to swim. In any situation, they can help someone.”

Find your life skills. Find your Y.
ymcashr.org/give

Gold medal dreams start at the Y! Whether your aspiring athlete enjoys gliding through the water, speeding across the finish line or nailing the perfect landing, the YMCA of South Hampton Roads has something for everyone. Visit ymcashr.org to discover all of our youth sports offerings and help them find their new passion today!

YMCA before and after school offers a welcoming and safe space for kids and teens to flourish. The YMCA of South Hampton Roads needs your help to ensure every parent who needs our support gets it. Donation to YMCA Before and After School scholarships today ymcashr.org/give

Transform Lives at the Y! We're looking for Personal Trainers. No experience needed—we’ll train you! Part-time, flexible schedule, free membership, and child care while you work. Apply today! https://loom.ly/MAqLVPc

Today is International Lifeguard Appreciation Day! It's not just fun in the sun for these certified first responders. They're constantly training to maintain their rescue skills, provide top-notch service and facility safety, keep pool water clean and properly sanitized, and keep a watchful eye on guests. If you are visiting one of our centers today and see a lifeguard be sure to show your appreciation!

I'm Joshua, a recent high school graduate and soon-to-be student at Old Dominion University. My journey has been deeply influenced by a passion for activism, particularly within diverse communities. Ensuring equity is at the heart of everything I do, and I'm committed to making a positive impact wherever I go. Kindness is a huge cornerstone of my values. I believe that small acts of kindness can create ripples of change, fostering a more compassionate world. Whether through community service, educational initiatives, or everyday interactions, I strive to spread kindness and make a difference in the lives of those around me.

Teenagehood is a crucial period defined by socialization. Teenagers often navigate this phase as hormonal, anxious beings, caught between the innocence of childhood and the responsibilities of adulthood. We frequently find ourselves lost and confused, looking to our communities for guidance and a sense of belonging. Indeed, it takes a village to bridge the gap between teen and adult, and trying to traverse this journey alone is nearly impossible.

When I moved to Currituck County, a stark contrast to my previous urban life, I felt a profound sense of loss. The vibrant community I once had was suddenly out of reach, leaving me in a state of solitude. The sanctum of my village had been obstructed, and my bridge to adulthood seemed to be collapsing without the core of my community. Being homeschooled only intensified this feeling of isolation. I existed on a blank canvas, devoid of the companionship that once added color to my life.

During this challenging time, my family did their best to offer support. Our home was filled with infectious laughter, movie nights, game nights, and all the elements that transform a house into a home. Despite their unwavering support and encouragement to seize any opportunity that came my way, I still yearned for connection with my peers.

When the YMCA offered me a chance to join the YMCA Teen Leaders Club, I eagerly accepted, hoping it would be the connection I so desperately needed. The Currituck YMCA quickly became more than just a place to work out; it became a sanctuary where I found a sense of belonging and purpose. The welcoming staff and enthusiastic members made me feel like I was part of a new family, bridging the gap that had left me feeling isolated.

Being a part of the Y was transformative. It provided me with leadership opportunities, a chance to give back to the community, and a network of peers who were also navigating their own journeys. The Currituck YMCA became my village, offering support, friendship, and a sense of direction during a pivotal time in my life.

Through my involvement with the YMCA, I rediscovered my vibrant colors and rebuilt the bridge to adulthood with the support of a strong, nurturing community. The Currituck YMCA didn't just offer me a place to exercise; it gave me a home away from home and a community that helped shape the person I am today.

Find Your Y. Find Your People.
ymcashr.org/give

Annalisse and her Y friends were eagerly counting down the days to the start of summer camp. With 12 buddies in a group chat, their phones buzzed with excitement every day as they inched closer to their favorite time of year. Annalisse, a longtime participant in the Y’s After-School program, couldn't wait to dive back into the fun-filled days at Camp Grom.

When the big day finally arrived, Annalisse and her friends were ready for their reunion and their adventures conquering the Alpine Tower, kayaking on the lake,and just hanging out and laughing.

For Annalisse, a summer at camp is more than just a break from school—it’s a chance to strengthen friendships, try new things and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Find Your Y. Find Your Friends.
ymcashr.org/give

Get ready for a roaring good time as The Virginia Zoo and the YMCA of South Hampton Roads swap members for the month of August! Y members will enjoy free, unlimited admission to the Virginia Zoo during August, plus 10 percent discounts in the gift shop and food service locations. 🦁 🐘 🦒 🐵 Visit for ymcashr.org/zoo-swap more details and exceptions.

Jordan, a.k.a “Coach J,” grew up in the Y’s before and after-school program and summer camp. At 17, she works and volunteers in her community and is passionate about creating awareness of the importance of kids having a safe place to go. Jordan started working at the Taylor Bend and Portsmouth YMCAs as a lifeguard and soon started teaching swim, dance and tumbling.

“I love working at the Y because it has opened so many doors for me,” Jordan says. “In addition to the opportunities I’ve been given working at the Y, it has always been a home for me where I’m always welcomed and appreciated.”

Jordan got involved in pageants last year, and gained the title of Miss Tidewater. Her pageant win got her thinking about how she might create positive change in her community. In May, Jordan was crowned Teen Virginia Regency International and credited the Y for supporting her pageant dreams. “Coach J” has built a reputation at the Y for her deep involvement and plans to continue supporting programs for children at the Y.

Aside from her work at YMCA, Jordan enjoys dancing and cheering at her school. As an athlete, she is passionate about her work as a coach. This fall, Jordan will begin her senior year at Churchland High School. The title “Coach J” will forever hold a special place in her heart and she hopes to sustain what she started at the YMCA for years to come.

Find Your Y. Find Your Purpose.
ymcashr.org/give

Jumpstart Your Fitness Career at the Y! No experience required, just bring your passion. We'll train you to become a Group Exercise Instructor. Flexible hours, free membership and even drop-in child care. Apply now! https://loom.ly/a4T2Cx4

Have you heard the YMCA of South Hampton Roads now has text support? You can now text us with your questions during regular facility hours using the same number you usually call! Visit the location page for the text or call option for each location. https://loom.ly/5w9eJ3g

Next month, unwind at the week's end with your favorite peeps! Come chill by the pool for icy delights, tunes, and tons of fun! Join us at the Effingham Family Y Outdoor Pool for this fun event Friday July 19th from 5:30 to 7:30pm!

Come as a family, this is not a drop off event. Registration is per person. Free an open to all!

Register here! https://loom.ly/fwRnSOo

As a reminder, the Y will be operating on adjusted hours in observance of the Independence Day holiday on July 4th, 2024. 🇺🇸

*Facility: 9 am-1 pm
*Stay and Play/Izone: 9 am-12:45 pm
*Indoor Pools: 9–12:30 pm
*Outdoor Pools: 12 pm-6 pm

Our Mt. Trashmore YMCA will be closed on July 4th and 24-hour access will not be available due to our Independence Day 5k. There is still time to join the race! Visit https://loom.ly/iirROm4 and register today!

In honor of Professor Flex's birthday week, our VP of Healthy Living, we invite you to join us in celebrating by doing his signature Chest and Triceps workout! This workout is a perfect way to pay tribute to Professor Flex and get a great pump in the process. Let's flex together! 💪

We had a great time in our Little Y program this past month! There is still time to sign up for next month and August!

What is Little Y Experiences? It's a new drop-in program that will engage your child on social and emotional skills, art and science, rhymes and music, mindfulness and movement. It is a great introduction to a structured environment.

Little Y Experiences provides safe, affordable programming so parents can spend time together, rejuvenate with some me-time, or get much-needed errands done.

Register here! https://loom.ly/7mFe7Kc

Need care for your 6 week to 2 year old too? Sign up for Mini Y Experiences! https://loom.ly/iOl9Bdk

We are excited to announce our new pickleball court is now open and ready for action! 🎉 Grab your paddles and join us for some fun on the court. See you there! https://loom.ly/LoYZXB

Our next blood drive is coming up on June 29th!

Give blood and help save lives! Sign up here! https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=PortsmouthYMCA

Happy Juneteenth! Join us in commemorating this pivotal moment in our nation's history, honoring the emancipation of enslaved people in the U.S.

Learn more about Juneteenth, the incredible efforts of Opal Lee, and how the YMCA of South Hampton Roads is celebrating this important holiday. Check out our latest blog post, written by Senior Vice President of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Rodrigua Ross, and find out more!



ymcashr.org/blog/celebration-everyone

We had an absolute BLAST dancing with you last week at the Ties and Tiaras Dance! The dresses, decked out dads, dance moves, and smiles made for a memorable event. By the end of the night, playdates were being set up and new friends had been made. Thank you to all that came and supported our YMCA community in Portsmouth!

Looking for our next Family Events? We have TWO great events for you this summer! The first is a POOL PARTY at the Effingham YMCA on July 19th from 5:30-7:30pm Sign up here: https://loom.ly/5IRUFs0

The second family event of the summer is a Back to School Open Gym and School Supply Giveaway on August 3rd at the Portsmouth Y, from 10am to 1pm. We will have lots of activities for children, several area nonprofits, mental health counselors, community partners and more! Register here: https://loom.ly/Mknw6Iw

To bring you the best Y experience possible, our lap pool will be closed for retiling from Monday, June 10 through Sunday, June 16.

Don't forget, your YMCA of South Hampton Roads membership gives you access to all 21 of our locations!
We invite you to use the pools at the nearby Blocker Norfolk Family YMCA and Taylor Bend Family YMCA for lap swimming and water exercise during this period.
Thank you for your patience as we work to improve your YMCA! 🙏

Click to view pool calendars for the locations listed above. https://ymcasouthhampton.sgasoftware.com/Sales/Calendar?BranchID=310%2C170&LocationID=11

We had a great first session of Little Y last week! There is still time to sign up for this month!

What is Little Y Experiences? It's a new drop-in program that will engage your child on social and emotional skills, art and science, rhymes and music, mindfulness and movement. It is a great introduction to a structured environment.

Little Y Experiences provides safe, affordable programming so parents can spend time together, rejuvenate with some me-time, or get much-needed errands done.

Register here! https://loom.ly/7mFe7Kc

Need care for your 6 week to 2 year old too? Sign up for Mini Y Experiences! https://loom.ly/iOl9Bdk

Chef's In Training made some tasty dishes in the past two sessions! We cooked up chicken spaghetti, pop tarts, depression cake, pizza and more!

Everyone enjoyed learning kitchen basics like measuring, cutting, stirring, boiling water, baking, and more! Think your child won't try a new food? Have them take this class! All of our participants have the chance to learn about new foods and the opportunity to try them.

Sign up for more classes here: https://loom.ly/eqSuyJA

Join us for STEAM CLUB! We will explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math! Each week will be a new adventure to learn about the world around us and grow the skills of teamwork, innovation, and overcoming obstacles.

This past month, we had a blast designing ways to keep our eggs safe in our Egg Drop!

Sign up here! https://loom.ly/MZEc8HQ