JERSEY SHORE — The YMCA of the Jersey Shore will open its doors to the public for free programs, fitness opportunities and cultural activities during Welcoming Week, scheduled for Sept. 10 through 19.
The nationwide initiative, organized in partnership with the nonprofit Welcoming America, encourages residents from different cultures and backgrounds to connect with one another and build stronger communities.
“Every day, people from all ages, nationalities and backgrounds walk through our doors to improve their physical, mental and social well-being — side by side,” YMCA of the Jersey Shore President and CEO Laurie Goganzer said. “Welcoming Week is a chance for everyone to enjoy the feeling of belonging and respect that happens at the Y every day.”
Visitors may use participating YMCA facilities at no cost during the celebration. Those who purchase memberships during Welcoming Week will not have to pay enrollment fees.
Programs will differ by location and may include arts and crafts, fitness activities, job fairs, storytelling, performances, voter registration and information from community organizations.
Representatives from Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey, a recently added YMCA program, will also participate. The organization assists older adults in Monmouth, Ocean and Middlesex counties by offering transportation to medical appointments, help with grocery shopping, therapy-dog visits and other services intended to improve their quality of life and reduce social isolation.
The Ocean County YMCA in Toms River will provide refreshments and interactive exhibits. Its facility will be open to the public for free, and enrollment fees will be waived for visitors who become members during the event.
Participating community organizations include Monmouth County Social Services, the League of Women Voters, the Monmouth County Division of Aging, Disabilities and Veterans, several area libraries, the VNA WIC Program, UnitedHealthcare, Kaleidoscope ABA Therapy and the United Methodist Church.
Welcoming Week activities will be offered at the following locations:
Bayshore Family Success Center at the Henry Hudson Trail Activity Center, 945 Route 36, Leonardo
Freehold Family YMCA, 470 E. Freehold Road, Freehold
Ocean County YMCA, 1088 W. Whitty Road, Toms River
Old Bridge Family YMCA, 1 Mannino Park Drive, Old Bridge
Red Bank Family YMCA, 166 Maple Ave., Red Bank
Additional details are available at ymcanj.org/welcomingweek-2026 and ocymca.org/events/welcoming-week/.
