Michael Whitten, Executive Director of the James P Gills Family YMCA, joins staff, members and volunteers in Welcoming Week activities.
The YMCA of the Suncoast joined Welcoming America and YMCAs across the country to celebrate Welcoming Week, which took place from September 13th to the 22nd.
Established in 2012 by Welcoming America, Welcoming Week invites individuals and communities to express their commitment to celebrating welcoming values through events and initiatives. Throughout the week-long celebration, our branches engaged our members in various activities designed to foster connection and understanding.
These celebrations often include potlucks with family recipes, interactive activities for children and visual aids that recognize our diverse membership. Each event encourages understanding between immigrants and non-immigrants, fostering a deeper sense of belonging for all.
Stephanie Zaragoza, Vice President of Community Impact at the YMCA of the Suncoast, shares, “At the YMCA of the Suncoast, we love celebrating Welcoming Week. This national celebration is a growing movement of inclusive communities that fully embrace New Americans and their contributions to the social fabric of our country. It’s a chance for neighbors — both immigrants and U.S.-born residents — to get to know one another and celebrate what unites us as a community.” She adds, “Seeing our staff, members and volunteers come together and celebrate common interests is moving. We are better together!”
The YMCA is proud to be one of the many organizations striving to create a sense of belonging and togetherness in communities worldwide. Welcoming Week is our largest annual event, which allows the YMCA to celebrate diversity, build connections, promote inclusion, empower youth and extend the welcoming spirit.
As we reflect on the success of Welcoming Week, we are reminded of the power of community and the impact we can achieve when we come together. Each conversation, shared meal and collaborative activity helped bridge gaps and break down barriers, reinforcing our belief that diversity enriches us all.
The YMCA of the Suncoast is committed to continuing this important work year-round. We invite everyone to carry the spirit of Welcoming Week into their daily lives, embracing the richness that each individual brings to our community. Let’s create a future where everyone feels valued, included and empowered to thrive.
Thank you to all who participated in and contributed to this meaningful celebration. Your engagement strengthens our community. Here’s to building a welcoming world, one connection at a time!
Published Friday, September 27, 2024.