Chapter 17 | September 2024

Dear Y Colleagues,

As we approach October, we are reminded of the importance of embracing the values of inclusion, health, and awareness within our communities. October marks National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Family Health Month, and National Diversity Awareness Month—all crucial areas where YMCA professionals can make an impact. Whether it’s supporting diversity in the workplace, promoting healthy lifestyles for families, or fostering inclusive environments for all, we each have a role to play in advancing these missions within our Ys.

In line with these values, we'd like to remind you of an incredible opportunity to deepen your professional development and leadership skills through the YPN Prime Membership, which is now FREE for all YMCA staff. This membership offers an array of benefits, including:

• Leadership and Recognition Opportunities: Prime members can take on local YPN leadership roles and receive recognition for their contributions to the Y movement.
• Exclusive Professional Development Experiences: Gain insights from Y leaders through exclusive eLearning courses.
• Discounts and Emergency Assistance: Save on event registrations and access grants through the Emergency Assistance Fund during difficult times.

This is an exciting chance to invest in your career, connect with like-minded professionals, and enhance your leadership journey—all at no cost. To register, simply visit link.ymca.net and become part of the YPN Prime network today!

Let’s continue to lead with purpose, especially as we move into a month focused on health, diversity, and inclusion.

Best,

YPN Chapter 17 Board Leadership Team

The Emerging Leaders Resource Network (ELRN) with YMCA of the USA is proud to celebrate young YMCA leaders who are making a difference and blazing trails in their communities. This prestigious award honors individuals under 30 who have demonstrated outstanding innovation, leadership, and a commitment to the YMCA's mission of community strengthening and inclusion.

Do you know a rising star who deserves to be recognized? Nominate them today by clicking the link below!

Nominations close on September 20. Don't miss this opportunity to spotlight the next generation of changemakers in the YMCA movement!

Are you under 30 yourself? - SELF NOMINATIONS ARE WELCOME! Anyone can nominate anyone who meets the criteria of this award. See below for additional FAQs.

R-EMLE is a dynamic event that celebrates and supports the Y's next generation of multicultural leaders through networking and mentoring opportunities, educational presentations, and resources that inspire staff to deepen their commitment to a career in the Y movement. 

This year's theme, "Unleash the Power of You: Grow Your Career in the Garden State", empowers staff to unlock their potential as they discover new skills and opportunities for professional growth within the Y. Through interactive sessions and networking, participants will learn how to thrive in their careers within the Y's dynamic landscape.

NJ Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect 2024 Conference

On October 7, 2024 from 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM at the Westin, Forrestal Village in Princeton, the NJ Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect will host professionals from New Jersey’s health care, education and law enforcement communities, to hear from child welfare experts about mandatory reporting and ways we can empower and assist families to prevent child abuse and neglect.

The NJ Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect is delving into the issue of mandatory reporting with nationally renowned child welfare experts. For context, over 35% of all American children – and over 50% of America’s Black children – will be reported to a CPS hotline before turning 18.* Many jurisdictions across the United States – including New Jersey – are beginning to examine the dynamics surrounding neglect investigations, taking steps to ensure that efforts to help families in poverty do not unnecessarily involve the child protection system, while also ensuring that children are kept safe from harm.

We value your voice in this process of reflecting on current practices and identifying needed areas for change. Please register at www.stockton.edu/tfcan by September 30, 2024. We look forward to having you join us for this important dialogue.

As part of the New Jersey YMCA State Alliance (NJYSA)’s strategic planning process, we are gathering input from Peer Communities and Network Groups across New Jersey to ensure the Alliance continues to provide meaningful support to all YMCAs and the communities they serve. Your feedback is essential in helping us shape how NJYSA can better support your group and your organization moving forward.

Aaron Proietti, an independent facilitator, has been retained to help guide this process. Aaron will be attending several upcoming peer community meetings this month to have important conversations about the support and services provided by NJYSA. In addition to these discussions, we are also collecting feedback through a 15-20 minute survey for those who are unable to attend a meeting. We encourage everyone to take the survey, even if you attend one of the discussions with Aaron.

Please complete the survey by Friday, September 20th, using the link below. Your input is critical to this process, and we thank you for your time and feedback.

If you are interested in joining YPN Chapter 17's Equity Committee, please reach out to Krys Jensen (krys.jensen@rbaymca.com) and Charitie Bruning (cbruning@campbernieymca.org). The first meeting will occur on Tuesday, September 17th!

Y-USA Training Links (New Jersey locations)

YPN Peer Communities are dynamic networks designed to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and professional growth among young professionals. These communities provide a platform for individuals to connect with like-minded peers, exchange ideas, and explore common interests or challenges within their respective fields. By offering a supportive environment for networking and mentorship, YPN Peer Communities empower young professionals to expand their skills, broaden their perspectives, and navigate their career paths with confidence. Whether through virtual discussions, workshops, or social events, these communities serve as valuable resources for personal and professional development, enabling members to thrive in their careers and make meaningful contributions to their industries.

Let's be social!

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