Chapter 17 | June 2024

Dear YMCA Colleagues,

As the rays of the summer sun start to shine upon us, we want to extend our warmest wishes for a summer filled with joy, relaxation, and rejuvenation. With the summer camp season just around the corner, it's the perfect time to remind ourselves of the importance of self-care and prioritizing our mental health. Remember to take moments to recharge, ensuring we can continue to provide the best support and care for our communities.

This June, we celebrate a variety of important occasions. It's Pride Month, a time to honor and support our LGBTQ+ community. We also observe Juneteenth, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and recognizing the ongoing journey toward equality. Additionally, June is Immigrant Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich cultural contributions of immigrants to our nation.

In June, we also celebrate Father's Day! Did you know that Father's Day was first proposed at a YMCA in 1910? This is a testament to our enduring spirit of innovation and influence, a legacy that spans 180 years since the first YMCA was founded on June 6, 1844. As we reflect on our history, let's continue to be a source of creativity and positive change in our communities.

Wishing everyone a fantastic summer filled with growth, connection, and well-being.

Warmest Wishes,

YPN Chapter 17 Board Leadership Team

The Emerging Multicultural Leadership Experience (EMLE)

2024 will mark the 10th National EMLE since the inaugural experience in 2010.

EMLE provides a space for multicultural Y staff and volunteers to learn, grow, thrive and connect with hundreds of peers from across the Movement. Attendees access personal and professional growth opportunities, from mentoring and career coaching sessions to networking events to breakout sessions on a wide variety of topics relevant to staff at any level in their careers. Attendees return to their Ys with an increased knowledge of professional development resources, an expanded network and a stronger commitment to the Y.

At the heart of our organization lies a commitment to professional development, recognizing its crucial role in empowering you in your role and making a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. Through a variety of training opportunities, we aim to provide you and your teams with the tools, knowledge, and resources necessary to thrive in your careers. Investing in professional development not only enhances individual skill sets but also contributes to a more vibrant and dynamic organizational culture. Please view our upcoming opportunities below!

Mental Health First Aid

The NJ YMCA State Alliance will be offering two Adult Mental Health First Aid trainings and one Youth Mental Health First Aid training this summer. These free trainings will be held virtually via Zoom, and can accommodate up to 30 participants, first come, first serve. The training includes approximately 2-hours of self-paced online pre-work, followed by a 6-7 hour live instructor session held over Zoom (including breaks and lunch).

Mental Health First Aid courses teach participants how to recognize the signs and symptoms that suggest a potential mental health challenge, how to listen nonjudgmentally and give reassurance to a person who may share they are experiencing a mental health challenge, and how to refer someone to appropriate professional support and services. This year, a Youth MHFA training is also available for those working directly with children and teens. Please note that Mental Health First Aid does NOT:

• Train participants to diagnose or treat others
• Provide any type of mental health counseling/direct support

Attendees must register in advance for any training(s) through the links below. Once registered, attendees will receive an email in advance of the training date(s) with more information and a link to complete the required pre-work:

• 6/26/2024 ADULT Virtual MHFA Training (register by 6/20 at 5:00 PM) – 19 spots available
• 7/26/2024 ADULT Virtual MHFA Training (register by 7/12 at 5:00 PM) – 22 spots available
• 8/01/2024 YOUTH Virtual MHFA Training (register by 7/18 at 5:00 PM) – 10 spots available

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Julia Wieczorek at jwieczorek@njyalliance.org.

Y-USA Training Links (New Jersey locations)

Help shape the State Alliance's training programs by filling out this survey! Your input will guide the Alliance in identifying training needs, potential trainers, and new locations for hosting sessions. Let's enhance learning and development across our YMCAs together!

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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