Summer is in full swing, and there is no better place to make the most of it than the Greater Scranton YMCA. Whether your family is looking for a splash in the pool, a great read, a fitness class or a way to give back to the community, the Y has something for everyone this season.

SUMMER SWIM

There is truly no place like the Y pool. Summer swim lessons are underway, welcoming swimmers of all ages and abilities from infants as young as 6 months on up. From first bubbles to first freestyle, the Y is where children build skills that last a lifetime while families find a community that supports them every step of the way.

SCHOLASTIC BOOK FAIR

Now through July 17, the Greater Scranton YMCA is hosting a Scholastic Book Fair in our lobby. Members, families, staff and visitors are invited to browse and purchase a wide variety of children’s books, educational materials, and reading resources. The Book Fair features selections for all ages and interests, making it easy for families to start or grow their home libraries and foster a lifelong love of reading. Proceeds support our Early Learning Centers and help provide books and educational resources for our youngest learners. Stop in and pick up something great.

YOUTH PROGRAMMING

August youth programming registration is now open. The Y’s youth programming lineup is designed with something for every child, including a mix of sports, arts and STEM activities. Whether your child wants to shoot hoops, get creative, or explore something new, the Y has a place for them this summer.

NEW GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES

The Y has added two new group exercise classes to our schedule this summer. Yin/Yang Yoga meets Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. It is the perfect blend of effort and ease, combining vinyasa flow and balancing postures with passive poses that promote relaxation and flexibility. You will leave feeling both energized and deeply restored. Sculpt and Flow meets Fridays from noon to 12:45 p.m. This 45-minute workout combines yoga, weights, core and barre exercises to build muscular and core strength, improve mobility and flexibility and boost your posture. Energizing music included. Both classes are open to members.

Need a little backup while you get your workout in? The Y’s Child Watch program is available to family members at no additional cost. Drop your children off, get your sweat on and pick them up ready to go.

SUMMER CLOTHING DRIVE

The Greater Scranton YMCA is hosting a Summer Clothing Drive, and we are inviting our community to join us in making a difference for those in need. From Aug. 3 through Aug. 7, we will be collecting gently used, clean, wearable clothing for individuals and families of all ages. Donations can be dropped off at the Y’s Welcome Center. All donated items will then be made available to community members free of charge from Aug. 10 through Aug. 13. This is a meaningful opportunity to give back while promoting sustainability and community support. All are welcome.

THE Y: YOUR ONE-STOP SUMMER DESTINATION

At the Greater Scranton YMCA, there is a membership to fit every lifestyle and every stage of life. From individual and family plans to options for seniors and young adults, Y membership opens the door to everything the Y has to offer. We are committed to ensuring that cost is never a barrier. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. To learn more about membership options or to apply for assistance, visit greaterscrantonymca.org or stop in and speak with a member of our team.

To learn more about everything the Greater Scranton YMCA has to offer this summer, visit greaterscrantonymca.org or call 570-342-8115.

There is no place like this place. We hope to see you here this summer!

Colleen Burns Ecklund is the marketing and development director at the Greater Scranton YMCA. A lifelong YMCA person, Ecklund has served the organization in a variety of roles over the years, from camp counselor to program leadership. Most recently, Ecklund worked in community and economic development. Her current work focuses on sharing the Y’s impact, building community partnerships and connecting people to the resources they need to thrive. Helping tell the story of the Greater Scranton Y’s mission, and the people behind it, is what she loves most about her role.