April Newsletter: See What's Blooming at the Y
You're invited to Healthy Kids Day!
Kids of all ages are invited to Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 26 at the Corpening Memorial Y in Marion. Nationally sponsored by Peanuts, this free annual event focuses on getting children and families to move more and develop healthy habits. Activities will include games, healthy cooking demonstrations, arts and crafts, and fun competitions. Find all the details here and learn more about the local sponsors that make this event possible.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Excel after the bell
Reserve your child’s spot in the Y’s enriching afterschool programs and rest easy knowing they have a safe, nurturing place to study and have fun. Registration is now open for 2025-26 afterschool programs in Asheville City Schools, Buncombe County Schools, and McDowell County Schools. Financial assistance is available. Learn more here.
Great summers start at the Y
This summer, let your kids embark on an epic adventure at YMCA Camp Watia in Bryson City! For one unforgettable week, campers aged 8 to 17 will dive into thrilling activities, forge lifelong friendships, and uncover hidden talents. From mastering archery and canoeing to creating masterpieces in arts and crafts and conquering mountain biking trails, there's excitement around every corner. Give your child the gift of adventure and memories that will last a lifetime. Click here to register today!
Put some spring in your step
Celebrate spring with a lively garden dance party at the Reuter Family Y on Saturday, April 12 from 5:30-7 p.m. Enter a contest for a chance to win prizes for the most colorful, largest, and most unique hats. Put some spring in your step and join us for an afternoon filled with movement, laughter, and togetherness. Learn more and sign up here.
Explore, play, and learn over spring break
Looking for a fun way for your younger kids to spend spring break? The Asheville Y and Reuter Family Y are offering half-day camps with a variety of activities to keep kids entertained, active, and learning over the break. April 14-18 from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., campers ages 3-5 will have a great time while parents have peace of mind. Learn more and sign up here.
Half-day camp, full-day fun
From May 26-Aug. 11, the Y offers half-day camps that are just right for kids up to age 13:
- Camp Kiddos introduces children ages 3-5 to structured camp through arts, crafts, song, outdoor play, and water safety.
- Sports of All Sorts Camp teaches the fundamentals of the game, sportsmanship, and teamwork in basketball, soccer, flag football, kickball, dodgeball, and more!
- STEM Camp at the Corpening Memorial Y makes learning fun. Campers ages 6-12 will enjoy a week of activities, projects, experiments, and more.
All half-day camps run from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Monday-Friday. Financial assistance is available. Learn more and sign up here.
Take the whole family to camp
Disconnect from technology and reconnect with each other at YMCA Camp Watia Family Camp, May 16-18. Your group will enjoy a fun and relaxing weekend with stunning mountain views, exciting activities, and quality time together, all while creating lifelong family memories. Find more details here.
Be the difference
Discover new ways to support young people with Youth Mental Health First Aid training. Designed for adults who regularly interact with young people, this free two-day course is an opportunity to learn how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health issues in youth. Learn more and find our upcoming trainings here.
HEALTHY LIVING
Get ready to run
As the official training partner of the annual Chamber Challenge 5K, the Y is hosting free training sessions designed for ALL fitness levels. Sessions are open to everyone, whether or not you’re registered for the race. Join personal trainer Suzanne Ion every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. at the Asheville Chamber (36 Montford Ave, Asheville, NC 28801) from now until Apr. 22. Learn more, get training tips, and sign up for the race here.
Celebrate healthy aging
Healthy aging means living life as fully as possible, and the Y is here to help! Celebrate Healthy Aging Day with us on May 19 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Corpening Memorial Y in Marion. Presented by Hopscotch Primary Care, this free community event will feature group exercise classes, pickleball, informative lectures, free health screenings, vendor booths, free food and drinks, and giveaways. Learn more here.
Think outside the box
CrossFit can help you accomplish your fitness goals, from improved health to weight loss to better athletic performance. Westridge CrossFit offers the region's most affordable box, and all skill levels are welcome. Financial assistance is available, as well as childcare while you work out. You'll also have access to seven area YMCAs and thousands of facilities nationwide. Learn more here.
More time for you
Exciting news: The Black Mountain Y is expanding Sunday hours! Starting April 6, the facility will be open from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Now there’s even more time to get your workout in on the weekend.
Reduce your diabetes risk
The Y offers a research-based Diabetes Prevention Program to help you make lasting healthy lifestyle changes and reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This free program is available to the public in English and Spanish. For more information, email [email protected] or call 828-209-5012.
Find more at the Y
The Y has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether it's games and celebrations to workshops and support groups, there are plenty of options to choose from. Click here to find out what's going on at the Y this month.
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Make a difference this summer
Looking for the perfect summer job? Be a part of the Y team! We’re hiring for multiple positions, including lifeguards, sports instructors, camp kitchen staff, and childcare attendants. We offer flexible schedules, career opportunities, and free YMCA membership. Apply to join our team today. Plus, we’re now offering signing bonuses for lifeguards! Learn more here.
Get free, fresh food
The YMCA's free Mobile Food Markets visit dozens of locations each month, pairing free healthy food with tasty recipes and valuable nutrition information that's easy to understand. The food markets are open to the public, no questions asked. Learn more about our food programs and find this month's schedule here.
Give your time
April is National Volunteer Month, so it’s a great time to connect and give back to the community. Find ways to make a difference here. The Asheville YMCA will be hosting an Earth Day Volunteer Day on April 19 from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Learn more here.