SEPTEMBER 2026 NEWSLETTER
A Message from the CEO
Dear Members,
Social media has become an almost unavoidable part of growing up.
According to the U.S. Surgeon General, as many as 95% of teenagers use social media, and roughly one in three report using it almost constantly. These numbers raise an important question: in a world competing for so much of our children's attention, are we giving them enough opportunities to disconnect?
At the Y, we believe the answer starts with giving kids something worth putting their phones down for.
It's the excitement of learning to swim, the friendships formed at summer camp, the confidence that comes from trying a new sport, or simply having a safe place to spend the hours after school. These experiences might seem ordinary, but they play an extraordinary role in helping young people develop healthy habits, build relationships, and discover what they're capable of.
And they're becoming more important than ever.
Rhode Island's recent $49 million settlement with Meta has brought renewed attention to the impact of social media on young people and create an opportunity to rethink how we support their well-being. While access to mental health treatment is essential, we cannot overlook the value of the everyday experiences that help children grow up healthy, active, and connected.
For generations, the Y has provided those opportunities through childcare, before and after school programs, summer camp, sports, swimming, and recreation. We see firsthand the difference a caring adult, a new friendship, or a sense of accomplishment can make in a child's life. And we believe every child deserves access to those experiences, regardless of their family's financial circumstances.
As conversations about the settlement continue, we're looking forward to sharing what we've learned from the thousands of children and families we serve. We also hope we can count on our members to share their own stories about what the Y has meant to their families and why these opportunities deserve our collective support.
After all, there is a whole world waiting for our kids beyond the screen. Let's make sure they have every opportunity to enjoy it.
Warmly,
