The Greater Joliet Area YMCA will be joining YMCAs across the country to celebrate Welcoming Week from September 13-22! Welcoming Week, an initiative of Y-USA’s national partner Welcoming America, elevates the growing movement of communities that fully embrace new Americans and their contributions to the social fabric of our country. This week-long celebration is an opportunity for neighbors – both immigrants and US-born residents – to get to know one another and celebrate what unites us as a community.
This week, when you visit your local Y branch, you’ll be able to participate in fun activities that will get you in to the spirit of Welcome Week.
EXPAND YOUR WORLD
Members will be invited to participate in nine fun and easy activities to expand their perspectives and make our community a more welcoming place for all. You can grab an activity card by visiting the Membership Desk or download a card today by clicking below. How many can you accomplish during the week?
Welcome Week Activity Card
BRINGING PEOPLE CLOSER
Members will have the opportunity to pin their country of origin on a map located in the lobby. We are so excited to display a worldwide community throughout the week!
LEARN, GROW, THRIVE
Kid Zone sites will help celebrate YMCA Welcoming Week with group readings of ‘Stand in My Shoes’ by Bob Sornson. This short story will help children understand the importance of empathy when interacting with others.
The C.W. Avery Family YMCA’s Advisory Council is excited to host a special Celebrity Bartender Event! Stop by to see some of your favorite Y friends and support a great cause! All cash tips collected at the bar will benefit the YMCA Mission Strong Fund. Please remember to bring cash for raffles and to tip your bartender. Complimentary appetizers will be served. 
The C.W. Avery Family YMCA invites families to participate in a series of Family Fitness Fridays this fall! These family oriented group fitness classes will help you and your family create healthy habits and have fun together!
