OUR VOICE

A newsletter for members and volunteers of the Y

NORTH VALLEY FAMILY YMCA 11336 Corbin Ave, Northridge, CA 91326

AUGUST 2013 www.ymcala.org/nv

READY FOR SCHOOL

YMCA CHILD CARE
Children are like sponges they watch and absorb knowledge, skills and values from everything and everyone around them. At the Y, we believe the values and skills learned early on are vital building blocks for quality of life and future success. Thats why our child care, afterschool and Child Watch programs are staffed with people who understand the cognitive, physical and social development of kids, the need children have to feel connected and supported in trying new things, and the caring and reinforcement parents and families need to help each other.
MORE on P. 4 & 5

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

AUGUST 4th: Friendship Day

Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art... It has no survival value; rather is one of those things that give value to survival. - C. S. Lewis This month we take a moment to value our friendships. Whether within our family units, or amongst our peers, these are the special people in our lives that encourage us, support us and join us in whatever we do.

FOR KIDS:
There is nothing like a camp to make the deepest lasting friendships. But dont forget, there are also great child care programs with enrichment classes and arts and active classes at the branch to grow with. And dont forget team sports! Read more on P.3.

FOR ADULTS:
Make a new friend at a Zumba or Cycling class or on with a pick-up game on the Sports Court. Strengthen friendships with volunteer opportunities at Y Leaders, fitness clubs like Summit Seekers and Marathon Training Group, and social clubs like Red Hats. Trying something new or making a promise to get healthy is so much easier with a friend!
Guides

FOR FAMILIES:
Its always the right time to strengthen bonds within families. Check out Parent-Child classes and Adventure Guides, plus be on the lookout for Family Nights at the Y.,

OUR VOICE | A newsletter for members and volunteers of the Y

INSIGHT

READY FOR SCHOOL

Child Care: continued from p.1

By John Trent, Chair of North Valley Family YMCAs Board of Managers

Infant & Preschool Center and Preschool Learning Center

Give your child the caring, nurturing and fun experiences they need at this special time in their life. Well provide exposure to language development, creative art, music and movement, and activities that cater to the uniqueness of every child and encourage them to grow at their own pace. Infant Program: ages 6 weeks to 2 years: With three special rooms designed to meet the growing needs of these ages, the Y nurtures early development of every child. You will feel safe and your child will feel loved. Note: this program offered exclusively at the Mission Hills location only. TOddler Program: ages 2 to 2 1/2 years in diapers: The adventurous spirit of these youngsters is rewarded with our dedicated teachers and ever-changing experiences for them to explore.

This month I complete my 3rd year as Board Chair of the North Valley Family YMCA (NVFY). It has been a very rewarding experience and I have enjoyed working with Jane Stanton, NVFYs Executive Director, as well as with the Y staff who supports this branch with a positive and proactive attitude. Although my term ends, I will remain on the Board of Managers as Past Chair. I want to welcome my successor, John Sinnema, as the NVFYs new Board Chair who begins his term in September. John, whose family has been involved in the NVFY for many years, has been active on our current board serving on many committees. I look forward to his leadership and tenure as our new Y Board Chair. As a final note, please continue to take advantage of the NVFYs many programs and classes that are offered for both adults and children. They are the key to a healthier and well-balanced lifestyle.

Preschool Program: ages 2 to 2 1/2 or potty-trained to 5 years: The Y believes in promoting programs that will help each child become the best that they can be. Our goal is to help our kids adapt easily to the kinder environment and offer a variety of creative ways to prepare them for that next big step.

BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CHILD CARE (K-5th Grade):

Our programs facilitate the development of the whole child through meaningful experiences, activities, and collaborations that build relationships and a sense of community. With a site at more than a dozen elementary schools in the north San Fernando Valley, were here and ready for you. And dont miss out on these life-changing benefits & programs: CHARACTER COUNTS! Coalition: focusing on building the Six Pillars of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship. STEM immersion program: takes student explorers on virtual expeditions with world class scientists while bringing science, technology, engineering, and math to life. Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Standards: to align with and support the Partnership for a Healthier America (PHA). Traveling Enrichment Program: Education Support, Arts & Recreation

CLUB MID: After School Program

Give your child something fun and onstructive to do after school each day. This program is tailored specifically for those in middle school. Strong emphasis on Character Development which will assist in providing the students with the tools needed to develop and grow into successful young adults. Located on the campus of GEORGE K. Porter Middle SCHOOL.

OUR CAUSE | STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY

TEAM WORK: BUILDING LEADERS THROUGH PLAY

Youth Sports The Y is the starting point for many youth to learn about becoming and staying active, and developing healthy habits theyll carry with them throughout their lives. And the benefits are far greater than just physical health. Whether its gaining the confidence that comes from learning a new skill or building the positive relationships that lead to good sportsmanship and teamwork, participating in sports at the Y is about building the whole child, from the inside out. Registration starts August 12th and practices begin the week of September 16th (once per week/ one hour each at local schools) Mandatory Parent Meeting: September 10th Fall Basketball Leagues Ages 3-17 FALL SOCCER Ages 3 - 6 / IN-DOOR Ages 7 - 12 / OUT-DOOR ARENA VOLLEYBALL LEAGUES Ages 8-12 & 13-17 For more information, please contact: Daniel Daniel Zadikov, Youth Sports Director, 818 -368-3231 ext 2307 DanielZadikov@ymcala.org

AUGUST CALENDAR
Fall Child Care: Sign Up Now See Ready for School on P.2 FREE Intergenerational Bingo Friday August 2nd 12:30-2 pm Come try your luck and join us for an exciting afternoon of BINGO. This is sure to be a fun filled event with friendly competition and prizes! Bring your family and tell your friends! Sign up at the Welcome Center. End of Summer Luau: Saturday, August 10th, 3-5pm End summer with a splash at our FREE Luau Pool Party. Enjoy time with your family in the pool with food, fun and games. Register at the Welcome Center. Family Picture Day Fundraiser: Saturday, August 10th, 1:30-7:30pm Sunday, August 11th, 10am-6pm Come get your picture taken and help us purchase mirrors for the dance programs. Packages starting at $30. Member Appreciation Day: Wednesday, August 14th 9 - 11am & 3 - 5pm Join us for our monthly Member Appreciation Days filled with delicious, healthy foods as our little thanks to you for being part of our Y family. Summit Seekers Hikes: All the hikes are free, open to the community and geared for beginner/intermediate hikers. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks. See you on the trail! Email Jody Guerrero @ jodyguerrero@ ymcala.org for more information and future hikes. Wednesday, August 21 Full Moon Night Hike at Calabasas Peak. 4 miles, moderate+ Y Business Leaders: Friday, August 30th , 7:30 9 am Join us each month at Porter Valley Country Club as we feature a new dynamic speaker along with many networking opportunities!

And DONT LET KIDS HAVE ALL THE FUN.... JOIN OUR ADULT MENS & WOMENS BASKETBALL LEAGUE!

HEART HEALTH MATTERS

Heart Health Seminar Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States yet many people are unaware of their risk factors and dont recognize the symptoms of a heart attack. UCLA Cardiologist Dr. James S. Lee will discuss action you can take to stay heart healthy and how new technology is transforming the treatment of cardiovascular disease. Light refreshments will be served.

MY Y STORY
The North Valley Family YMCA is a big part of the community, and in individuals lives. Thank you to John for sharing with us why he thinks its important to share your time and treasures witht the Y... John, YMCA Board Member & Donor The Y is a bedrock in our community. Their focus on Youth Development, Social Responsibility and Healthy Living is extremely important to ensuring the health and well-being of both our youth as well as adults. I donate to the NVFY because I believe that the programs and classes will support a more vibrant community through focused education and uplifting activities..

Wednesday, August 14, 2013 Noon 1 p.m.in the COMMUNITY ROOM CONTACT: Bryson Atkins 818-368-3231 ext. 2304

Share your Y Story with us today!