Greater Wyoming Valley Area Ymca

Health and well being for all programs - the gwva ymca views health holistically: a healthy person has unity of body, mind and spirit. The wv ymca has identified the growing national obesity rates in this country as a critical social issue that must be addressed and our health and well being programs are designed to help people develop new skills and grow in spirit, mind, and body by setting realistic goals for self improvement and disease prevention through an active lifestyle, proper nutrition, stress management, and health education. Gwva ymca programs promote interaction, teamwork, and development of moral and ethical behavior, social skills, and self esteem. The wv ymca serves all ages, abilities, races, nationalities, and religions and provides financial assistance to those who need it. The wv ymca is the largest youth service agency in the wyoming valley area of pennsylvania. It is visited daily by approximately 1,500 people of which half are children. Healthy kids' day activities and youth fitness programs are now part of the gwva ymca activities for children. Youth programs include before and after-school and evening programs that are designed to keep children, ages five through twelve years old, active and healthy. Programs offered include basketball, indoor soccer, t-ball, karate, gymnastics, swimming, wrestling, and arts and crafts. Teenagers also have a number of opportunities available from the various leagues and programs offered including gym activities, swimming, exercise, and church youth groups. The gwva ymca also participates in the silver sneakers program, whereas the older adults of the community are able to have access to various exercise programs, swimming programs, and social gatherings.

Camping programs - the gwva ymca has an 1,100 acre site located in the pocono mountain area which is used for its camping programs. The residential and day camping at camp kresge offer adventure and learning activities that provide challenge, education, and promote spiritual awareness, mental development, physical well being, social growth, and self-respect. The camps provide a reverence for nature and respect for the inter-relatedness of all living things on earth. The camps are open to all regardless of income or special needs, so that children appreciate diversity, become community leaders and develop lifelong values. The camping programs for children ages six to twelve years old include hiking, archery, boating, and outdoor education. Camp kresge also hosts camp for children with asthma and the state police troop "p" camp cadet program. Family weekends and special weekends such as halloween camp are also part of the camp kresge programs.

Student housing programs - the gwva ymca provides high quality apartments to a local college to house students attending the college.

Social responsibility - gwva ymca believes in giving back and supporting our neighbors. We have been listening and responding to our community's most critical social needs. Gwva ymca programs are examples of how we deliver training, resources and support that empower our neighbors to effect change, bridge gaps and overcome obstacles. We engage wv ymca members, participants and volunteers in activites that strengthen our community and pave the way for future generations to thrive.