HAPPY NEW YEAR, GREATER PROVIDENCE YMCA COMMUNITY.
January is about fresh starts, and across our Y, there is a lot to be excited about. We are kicking off 2026 with new leadership, expanded offerings, and continued improvements to our spaces.
First, a leadership update. Anthony Gibney will now serve as District Executive Director for both the Cranston and East Side Mt. Hope YMCAs. Anthony has been a strong leader in Cranston, and I am excited to see his impact expand across both branches. This timing is especially exciting as East Side Mt. Hope renovations get underway, which you can read more about in the announcements section below.
I am also pleased to share that Erin Del Vaglio has joined the Greater Providence YMCA as our Human Resources Manager. Strengthening our HR capacity supports the work members feel every day, helping us recruit and retain great staff so our programs stay well-staffed and our offerings can continue to grow.
Alongside these team updates, our branches are rolling out new group exercise classes and programs to help you find a routine that fits your goals and your schedule. If you have not checked the schedule recently, January is the perfect time to jump back in.
Finally, I want to share an update on an important project at our Kent County YMCA. The gymnasium is one of the most used spaces in the building, serving more than 2,000 members each month. This spring, we will begin renovations to repair the gym floor and properly adjust the basketball hoops so the space stays safe and ready for everything it hosts. We have secured $125,000 so far and are working to raise the final $15,000 through February 28. If you are able to give, your support will make a direct difference for the thousands of members who rely on this gym.
Thank you for being part of the Y. Wherever you are starting from this January, you belong here. We look forward to welcoming you in and supporting you, one visit at a time, all year long.
Let's be honest. Camp food has a reputation. We're excited to change that. For summer 2026, Camp Fuller is partnering with Wolfoods, a leader in fresh, chef-driven camp dining, to elevate the Mess Hall experience. Think better menus, more variety, and meals campers actually look forward to. Watch the update video and learn more at wolfoods.com.
Cranston Y glow-up alert. Our Active Older Adults enjoyed complimentary makeovers at Empire Beauty School, thanks to Elsa, our AOA Coordinator, and a great community partnership. Moments like this are what the Y is all about: connection, confidence, and community at every age.
We're thankful for the Bristol County Savings Bank Charitable Foundation's $10,000 grant to Providence Youth Services YMCA. Support like this helps ensure Providence youth have access to safe spaces, learning opportunities, and healthy routines after school and during the summer.
Renovations are underway at the East Side/Mt. Hope YMCA as we create a more welcoming and accessible lobby and Welcome Center. This work reflects our ongoing commitment to spaces that are safe, inclusive, and built to serve our community well. This spring, we will also be improving the entrance ramp and parking lot to further enhance safety and accessibility for members and guests.
Your support of the Greater Providence YMCA opens doors to possibility. From life-changing camp experiences to affordable childcare and programs that promote health and well-being, your gift makes a lasting impact across our community.
GIVE TODAY AND HELP BUILD A STRONGER FUTURE FOR ALL.