The YMCA of Ithaca and Tompkins County will participate in Welcoming Week from Sept. 10 through Sept. 19, joining a national YMCA campaign centered on helping neighbors from different backgrounds connect with one another.
The local observance will be based at the YMCA's facility at 50 Graham Road in Ithaca. The organization said the week is open to community members, though its announcement did not list a separate schedule of programs or activities.
Welcoming Week is intended to highlight communities that work to make residents feel welcomed, valued and connected. The Ithaca YMCA said the observance offers neighbors an opportunity to meet one another and recognize shared experiences across cultures and generations.
Christie Thornton, CEO of the YMCA of Ithaca and Tompkins County, said the organization views belonging as something community members create together. She said the local YMCA wants to continue its role as a place where neighbors can find connection and community.
The national YMCA movement began in Boston in 1851, according to the release. The organization said YMCAs historically helped young people arriving in rapidly growing cities and have since developed into community hubs serving families and people from a range of backgrounds.
The Ithaca and Tompkins County YMCA said its work focuses on access to resources, relationships and opportunities that support health, learning and social connection. It also described Welcoming Week as an extension of its broader effort to bring together people of different ages, perspectives and experiences.
Residents seeking more information can visit ithacaymca.com. Questions about the local observance can also be directed to Membership Director Emily LeViere at eleviere@ithacaymca.com.
Welcoming Week runs for 10 days, beginning Thursday, Sept. 10, and ending Saturday, Sept. 19. The YMCA announcement identifies the Graham Road facility as the location for the observance but does not specify registration requirements or fees.
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