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Youth Programs

Jason Mitchell Joins New Milford YMCA as New Sports Director

NEW MILFORD, NJ - New Milford YMCA Program Center, a location of the Greater Bergen County YMCA, is excited to welcome Jason Mitchell as the Y’s new Sports and Recreation Director.

By: Mollie Shauger | May 01, 2025

Youth Programs

South Mountain YMCA to Hold Charity Basketball Events

MAPLEWOOD, NJ – The South Mountain YMCA, a branch of the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, is excited to announce its annual Ducks Shoot-a-Thon basketball fundraiser will be held on Sunday, March 16 at the Y, 13 Jefferson Ave., Maplewood.

By: Mollie Shauger | Mar 07, 2025

Youth Programs

Y Staff Story: A Place to Have an Impact

Zachary Gurmankin started his journey at the Y as a camp counselor at Pioneer Trails Day Camp, one of many camps run by the West Essex YMCA. 

By: Zach Gurmankin | Jul 16, 2024

Youth Programs

Empowering Young Girls through Basketball

MAPLEWOOD, NJ - The South Mountain YMCA is bringing more to the game of basketball with the local introduction of a national program called “Her Time to Play,” which teaches girls the skills they need to succeed on the court, as well as off the court.

By: Mollie Shauger | Mar 24, 2022

Youth Programs

Metro YMCA Piloting Esports Program

The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges is launching a new Esports program for students in middle and high school in collaboration with the National YMCA Esports program, providing a virtual sports experience for youth and teens that is safe and promotes leadership and personal growth.

By: Mollie Shauger | Mar 16, 2021

Youth Programs

Did You Know?: YMCA was Birthplace of Basketball

One of America’s most popular sports, basketball, was first played at the YMCA more than 125 years ago. 

By: Mollie Shauger | Oct 23, 2019

Youth Programs

Benefits of Team Sports for Kids

At the YMCA, we encourage youth sports as a way to highlight the physical and mental benefits of sports for kids. 

By: Mollie Shauger | Oct 17, 2019

Youth Programs

5 Surprising Benefits of Performing Arts Programs

The performing arts - whether it’s singing and dancing on stage or working behind the scenes - has numerous benefits on a child’s social, emotional and academic development.

By: Mollie Shauger | Oct 16, 2019

Youth Programs

4 Practical Ways to Support STEAM Learning at Home

Here are some easy ways to involve Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math in everyday activities and interactions.

By: Mollie Shauger | Oct 09, 2019

Youth Programs

5 Mental Health Benefits of Youth Sports

Playing sports has numerous benefits to a child’s physical well-being, but did you also know that sports can impact their mind?

By: Mollie Shauger | Aug 20, 2019

Youth Programs

When Should My Child Play Sports?

If your son or daughter has shown interest in sports, how do you know if they’re ready to play?

By: Mollie Shauger | Aug 13, 2019