The Y’s Sporting Legacy
The YMCA’s dedication to serving communities worldwide runs deep! We take great pride in our contributions to youth development, social responsibility, and promoting healthy living. Among our significant contributions, did you know that Basketball, Volleyball, and Racquetball were actually invented at the Y?
Back in 1891, James Naismith, an instructor at the YMCA International Training School in Springfield, MA, was given a two-week challenge to create an indoor game that could engage and focus young men. On December 21, 1891, the first basketball game was played as a result of Naismith’s efforts. He drew inspiration from childhood games like duck-on-a-rock, as
Hydration Hack for the Summer
Summer is a lot of things—fun, busy, and hot! And if you live in Texas, you know that Texas tends to take summer heat to another level. When temperatures rise, many of us Texans will find a nearby pool, splash pad, lake, or even backyard sprinkler to escape the heat. Cooling down your body is a must when it’s hot out, but don’t forget about the inside of your body! No matter how young or old you may be, it is essential to stay hydrated this summer—and all year long!
Today we’re sharing a simple hydration hack to keep you
Greater Austin YMCA announces new additions to metro Board of Directors
The Greater Austin YMCA is excited to announce three new additions to its Metropolitan Board of Directors Board Members along with re-electing its new slate of officers for 2023-24.
Composed of 27 members, the Metro Board helps guide the nonprofit’s strategic direction, advocates on key issues and raises support to strengthen the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
“The Y is a volunteer-led organization that depends on effective board leadership to deliver our mission and ensure that everyone can access our life-changing programs,” said Kathy Kuras, Greater Austin YMCA President & CEO.
The new YMCA Board members are as follows:
U.S. Soccer Foundation & YMCA Coalition
The U.S. Soccer Foundation has partnered with 16 YMCAs across the United States, including those in the 11 U.S. World Cup Host Cities, to launch a joint campaign named “The Road to 2026: Making an Impact in Local Communities.” The goal of the campaign is to increase access to soccer and promote its health and wellness benefits to at least 1 million youths before the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. The collaboration will see Ys offering the U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Soccer for Success after-school program and Just Ball League as well as
Reintroducing Adrienne Barnett – Senior Executive Director
Some of you may already know Adrienne as the Senior Executive Director of Northwest Family YMCA. She will be leading both Northwest Family Y and the Four Points location upon its opening in 2024. With a deep connection to the community, Adrienne proudly calls the Four Points community her home, as she grew up in the neighboring Anderson Mill area from the young age of 7.
Adrienne’s journey with the Greater Austin YMCA began as the Executive Director and swiftly progressed to her
Summer Birthday Party Ideas
Do you have a little one with a summer birthday? If you’re looking for some fun ideas for summer birthday parties, you’re in the right place! We’re sharing some unique summer party ideas that might be perfect for your little one. And while we love a good pool party, they’re pretty common, so you won’t find that party idea on our list.
Ice Cream Party
Who needs cake when you can have ice cream? There’s so much you can do for an ice cream party. Build your own ice cream sundae, pin the ice cream scoop on the cone…you could even make
