NEWS & UPDATES
HOCKOMOCK AREA YMCA


Posted on: Saturday, November 30th, 2024

Inclement Weather Policy

The safety of our members and staff is a priority for our YMCA. During extreme weather conditions we employ an inclement weather policy, using our website home page and branch home pages to alert members of any facility closings or delays and class cancellations.

FACILITY CLOSINGS AND DELAYED OPENINGS

The Hockomock Area YMCA will monitor the weather during the winter months and will be mindful of the safety of our members and staff when deciding to continue a consistent class schedule or to modify the schedule based on the weather conditions.

For all group exercise classes, youth programming and adult programming, the Hockomock Area YMCA will make a decision two hours prior to the start of class and will notify all participants via our website and our social media pages.

In the case that the YMCA must close, this communication will be done through our website, member email blast, social media pages and on our phone messages.

CHILD CARE CANCELLATIONS AND DELAYS

It is our intention to operate Child Care and our school-age School’s Out program during regularly scheduled hours. Please be sure to provide your contact information and cell phone number to the facilitator of your child’s program who will alert you in case of any delay or cancellation.

Posted on: Saturday, November 30th, 2024

December Break Programs

When School Is Out, the Fun Is In!

When school is not in session due to the December break, kids and teens are invited to join us at the Y for fun, educational, day programs.

We believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve! That’s why, through Y day camps, children are cultivating the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health, and educational achievement.

Our experienced staff takes the right steps to ensure your camper’s safety and happiness during an action-packed day!

School Break Camps: Dec 23 – Dec 31.

  • Before Care 7:00 am—9:00 am available
  • A variety of fun activities available for ages 3 through 14
  • Break Programs 9:00 am—4:00 pm (and some half day programs as well)
  • After Care 4:00 pm—6:00 pm available
  • Note: If participating in a full day program, please bring a lunch, drink, snacks and water bottle. Half day programs, please bring lunch and water bottle.

in North Attleboro

We are pleased to offer a variety and specialized day camp options out of the North Attleboro Y. Choose from Camp Elmwood our traditional summer camp program to specialties like Gymnastics, Sports, Swim & Cooking. We are also offering a Teen Voyagers program which includes field trips and outdoor exploration & adventure!

REGISTER TODAY (NORTH ATTLEBORO)

REGISTER TODAY FOR TEEN & TWEEN PROGRAMS

in Foxboro:

We are pleased to offer a variety and specialized day camp options out of the Foxboro Y. Choose from Camp Wapawca our traditional summer camp program (which includes field trips!) to specialties like Sports, Gymnastics Dance, and Swim.

REGISTER TODAY (FOXBORO)

in Franklin

We are pleased to offer a variety and specialized day camp options out of the Franklin Y. Choose from Camp Wiggi our traditional summer camp program (which includes field trips!) or our Swim specialty program.

REGISTER TODAY (FRANKLIN)

in Mansfield

We are pleased to offer an Intro to Showcase 2025 through our Theatre Program. High Schoolers (and 8th graders, too!) will learn new theatre skills through Script Analysis, reading scripts, and learning their types of characters. We will also work on new audition techniques and how to be a good ensemble.

REGISTER TODAY (MANSFIELD)

Posted on: Saturday, November 23rd, 2024

Holiday Happenings This Season

“THE FINAL COUNTDOWN” HOLIDAY INCENTIVE:

  • Pick up a punch card at one of our Member Service Desks to take part in our “Final Countdown” program.
  • This incentive program is offered to help you stay on track with your fitness over the holiday, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve.
  • Members who receive 15 hole punches during the 11/28-12/31 time period can place their card into the raffle basket at Member Services for cool prizes.
  • Prizes include Y sweatshirts, tote cooler, water bottles, gift cards and more! See you at the Y!

A HOLIDAY TRADITION – FUN WITH SANTA EVENT:

  • Friday, December 13th 6:30pm – 8:30pm at our branches in Foxboro, Franklin and North Attleboro.
  • Free event for family-type YMCA members, but registration is required by calling the Branch for promo code. Cost for non-family type members is $6 and non-members is $12 and can be purchased in-branch or online.Register today!
  • Festivities include a meet & greet with Santa and photo opportunity, holiday games & crafts (representing a variety of holidays) and a take home goodie bag.
  • The event will have a 6pm soft opening for those who need a quieter sensory experience.

HOLIDAY THEME WEEKS:

  • Have fun with us during the holidays! Dress up for your youth program, group exercise class, or just to exercise!
  • Week of Nov. 25: ALUMNI WEEK – dress & support your favorite high school and college teams.
  • Week of Dec. 2: TROPICAL WEEK – It may be cold but things are heating up at the Y. Wear your favorite tropical attire.
  • Week of Dec. 9: WACKY WEEK
  • Mon. 12/9: Wacky Sock Day
  • Tues. 12/10: Crazy Hair/Hat Day
  • Wed. 12/11: Backwards/Inside Out Clothes Day
  • Thurs. 12/12: Neon Day – wear your favorite fluorescent colors
  • Fri. 12/13: Mismatch Day – wear clash patterns, mismatched colors, different socks, etc.
  • Week of Dec. 16: Ugly Sweater Week – holiday themed or not, wear it to the Y.
  • Week of Dec. 23: Pajama Week

HOLIDAY CHARACTER LUNCHES & PARENTS NIGHT OUT EVENTS:

  • At the Y, we strive to create a supportive, caring community where family joy & memories are made. We offer a variety of character luncheons throughout the year. In December, the Grinch will be joining us!
  • We also want to help parents & caregivers by creating opportunities for children to enjoy a night at the Y while parents & caregivers can enjoy time together, especially during the holiday season. Our theme this December is The Polar Express!
  • View all of our offerings, by branch and register today!

GIVING TREE PROGRAM:

  • Help local families in need this holiday season through our 19th annual Giving Tree Program
    How it works:
  • Pick a tag from our Giving Tree.
  • Purchase the gift listed on the tag.
  • Return unwrapped gift with original tag by Dec. 8 to the Member Service Desk.
  • Thank you for your support! Giving Trees in our branch lobbies are a powerful example of the generosity and spirit of social responsibility exhibited by our members and staff. Thank you for joining with us to create meaningful moments for YMCA families in need.


From all of us at the YMCA, thank you for being part of our Y family and happy holidays.

Posted on: Wednesday, November 20th, 2024

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Classes

Our Winter LIVESTRONG at the YMCA classes will begin the week of January 6th.

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is a no-cost, 12-week program designed for cancer survivors and their families seeking to regain health, build strength, and connect with other cancer survivors. Participants work with staff trained in supportive cancer care to safely achieve goals such as building muscle mass & strength, increasing flexibility & endurance, and improving confidence & self-esteem. By focusing on the whole person and not the disease, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA is helping people move beyond cancer in spirit, mind and body. The program meets twice a week for 90 minutes, using traditional exercise methods to ease you back into fitness and help participants improve confidence and self-esteem.

A cancer survivor is defined as anyone who has been diagnosed with a form of cancer in their lifetime.

Check out the locations, dates, and times of the upcoming LIVESTRONG at the YMCA classes beginning the week of January 6th.

Bernon Family Branch, Franklin

45 Forge Hill Road
Franklin, MA
Day & Time: Mondays and Wednesdays: 6:15pm-7:45pm
Day & Time: Wednesdays and Fridays: 10:45am-12:15pm

Invensys Foxboro Branch

67 Mechanic Street
Foxboro, MA
Day & Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays: 10:30am-12:00pm
Day & Time: Tuesdays and Thursdays: 6:00pm-7:30pm

Hurley Family Branch, North Attleboro

300 Elmwood Street
North Attleboro, MA
Day & Time: Mondays & Wednesdays: 10:30am-12:00pm

Participants receive a free family membership to the Hockomock Area YMCA during the program.

Cancer survivors are encouraged to contact Jackie Robison, LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Director, at 508-772-1310 or jackier@hockymca.org for more information and to enroll. For additional information, click here.

When there’s the Y, there’s a way to learn about healthier living.


Inspiring Stories from Cancer Survivors

From gaining physical strength to finding encouragement along the way, community members share their journeys at the Y.

Posted on: Thursday, October 17th, 2024

Legends Ball

OUR 19TH ANNUAL LEGENDS BALL: OCTOBER 15, 2024

We were proud to honor New England Patriots special teams standout Brenden Schooler with our 2024 Legends Award for his accomplishments on the field coupled with his commitment to giving back off the field. Brenden believes in our cause and our collective commitment to inclusion and community. We are proud to have Brenden as part of our YMCA family. He is a true champion for our Integration Initiative.

We celebrated the children, adults and families in our Integration Initiative and heard from Integration Initiative participant Niall Pike on the program’s impact on his life.

Emily Joyce received the 2024 Brock Award, presented annually to an Integration Initiative participant whose growth, confidence, poise and accomplishments exemplify why inclusion isn’t just important, it’s the greatest gift anyone can give another person.

All proceeds from the Legends Ball benefit the Hockomock Area YMCA’s Integration Initiative, a program providing children, teens and adults with special needs and their families an opportunity to be included in all aspects of our YMCA community.

An Amazing Night!

Posted on: Wednesday, October 16th, 2024

Experience the Thrill: Join Our Ski Club

Get ready for an exciting winter with the YMCA Ski Club! This year, youth ages 11-17 can hit the slopes at Wachusett Mountain on Fridays or Sundays. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, everyone is welcome!

What to Expect:

  • Dates: Fridays from January 3 to February 7 and Sundays from January 5 to February 9.
  • Transportation: We’ll take a bus from the YMCA to Wachusett Mountain, leaving at 2:30 PM and returning by 10:00 PM.
  • Skills for Everyone ages 11-17: Enjoy group lessons and rentals available at the mountain.

Important Dates:

  • October 2: Passes go on sale
  • December 2: Pass prices increase
  • December 13: Last day to order passes

Make sure to mark your calendars so you don’t miss out!

PURCHASE PASSES NOW!

The Ski Club makes for a fantastic gift for teens/tweens eager to enjoy the outdoors this winter, regardless of their skill level! Please note that space is limited. For more details, feel free to reach out to Ken at Kenf@hockymca.org or call 508-643-5290.

Posted on: Wednesday, October 16th, 2024

YBL: Join our Basketball Skills and Drills Program

Are you ready to take your basketball game to the next level?

Our upcoming program is designed to help participants learn and practice essential skills and drills, develop the fundamentals of basketball, and put their new knowledge to the test during exciting scrimmages and games.

What You’ll Learn in YBL (Youth Basketball Leagues):

  • Skills and Drills: Participants will engage in a variety of drills to improve their dribbling, shooting, passing, and defensive techniques.
  • Fundamentals: Our experienced coaches will focus on teaching the core principles of basketball, ensuring that every player builds a strong foundation.
  • Scrimmages and Games: Practice what you’ve learned in real-game scenarios, enhancing your understanding and application of basketball strategies.

Details about YBL:

  • Season runs: December 14, 2024 – February 9, 2025
  • Age groups begin at 4 and extend through grade 4, depending on the branch where you register.
  • All skills can join. Non-members welcome.
  • Cost: $84 member, $113 non-member.

Exclusive Offer for Family Members: Family-type members can participate in this program at no cost, aside from the price of a T-shirt. To access the YBL discount, you will receive a promo code via email. If you don’t receive your promo code, please reach out to our Member Service Desk for help.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to improve your basketball skills and have fun! Register today and get ready to hit the court with confidence.

REGISTER NOW: YBL

Preseason clinics accepting sign-ups!

Quick note: preseason clinics are open for registration! Clinics will be held Saturday mornings in Foxboro and Sunday mornings in North Attleboro, starting the weekend of November 9.

Don’t let your 3 year old miss out on all the fun this winter. They’ll love it!

Is your child eager to learn the fundamentals of basketball and get ready for future league play? Our Basketball Leagues Prep program is the perfect opportunity for young athletes to develop essential skills in a supportive group class setting.

Skills Class Overview: In this parent/child class, children will focus on:

  • Dribbling: Working on controlling the ball and moving with it.
  • Passing: Practicing how to pass the ball accurately and well.
  • Shooting: Getting the hang of shooting the ball correctly and making it go in.
  • Defense: Learning how to play defense and where to stand.
  • Basic Game Play: Using what you’ve learned in actual games to feel more confident and get a better grasp of the game.
  • Why Join Our Leagues Prep Program? This class is part of our comprehensive Leagues Prep program, specifically designed to help children prepare for participation in Y Sports Leagues as they grow older. By focusing on fundamental skills and game play, we ensure that each child builds a strong foundation for future success in basketball.

Details about classes for children who are 3:

  • Class Times: Classes will be held Saturdays from 9:00 – 9:45 am in Foxboro and Sundays from 8:45 – 9:30 am in North Attleboro.
  • Duration: The program runs for 8 weeks, starting on December 14 and ending on February 9.
  • Location: All classes will take place at the Y Gymnasium. The start and end dates of this class align with our Youth Basketball League (YBL) schedule, making it easy for families to plan and participate.
  • Cost: $78 member, $152 non-member.

REGISTER NOW: YBL PREP

Get your kids involved in youth basketball teams and leagues at your local Y, and watch them have a blast while learning the game!

Posted on: Tuesday, September 24th, 2024

Before & After School Care Programs

LEARN AND THRIVE WITH US IN OUR BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CARE PROGRAMS

Our YMCA partners with local school districts to provide affordable before and after school programs for families in our communities.

Our Y provides quality before & after school programs through our School’s Out Program for children starting in kindergarten. We are an EEC licensed program. We offer 2, 3, 4 & 5 day options. Our before school program begins at 7:00am and our after school program ends at 6:00pm each week day. Join us this upcoming school year!

Our On-Site School Programs include:

  • Bellingham: Bellingham Middle School; Stall Brook and DiPietro Elementary Schools
  • Foxborough: Foxborough Regional Charter School– after school care only
  • North Attleborough: Amvet, Falls, Martin, Community and Roosevelt Elementary Schools
  • Wrentham: Delaney Elementary School. Children at Roderick Elementary School can attend our program at Delaney Elementary School.

Our On-Site Hockomock Area Branch Programs include:

  • Franklin Y: for Franklin Public Schools
  • Foxboro Y: for Foxborough Public Schools
  • Mansfield Y: for Jordan/Jackson and Robinson Elementary Schools

If you are enrolled in our School’s Out program, we offer care on school vacation days, professional development days, half days and snow days. We close for major holidays including Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and Columbus Day. We provide full day programming with fun field trips and activities.

TO REGISTER WITH US: CLICK HERE.

Registration for the 2024/2025 school year begins March 1, 2024. (Current program families begin registration on February 15, 2024.)

To learn more about the program or if you have questions, please contact: Erin Brennock at erinb@hockymca.org.

For questions regarding registration or billing, please contact: Monica Schmidt at monicas@hockymca.org or 508-643-5255.

Our mission is to enhance the quality of life of our members and our community, offering programs and services to all regardless of ability to pay. A financial assistance program is available for those that qualify. Please visit our website for more information. State vouchers are accepted.

Posted on: Monday, September 23rd, 2024

Join us for Vacation Days packed with action

When School Is Out, the Fun Is In.

Kids ages 5-17 are invited to join us during Columbus Day and Veterans Day school breaks for fun, social, and educational activities.

We believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve! That’s why, at the Y we offer flexible schedules and the opportunity for kids to learn skills and build relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health, and educational achievement, all while having a lot of fun.

Our experienced staff takes the right steps to ensure your child’s safety and happiness during an action-packed day!

For our outdoor enthusiast pre-teens and teens, join us on a summit hike, with transportation to and from the North Attleboro Branch. Everyone else, get off that couch and onto the court! Join our sports team for mini sports camps running in Foxboro and North Attleboro all day and half day options available.

REGISTER TODAY!

Posted on: Thursday, September 5th, 2024

Send a Kid to Camp

Give the Gift of Summer Camp to a Child in need this Holiday Season!

Your support makes a difference

PLEASE GIVE NOW

100% of every gift goes directly to helping support children right here in your neighborhood by providing confidential financial assistance to those who need it to experience the Best Summer Ever!

Did You Know? Every Gift Matters!

  • $50 will support one camper for a day
  • $150 will support one camper for 3 days
  • $250 will support one camper for a week

In 2024, 25% of campers received confidential financial assistance to attend camp. You can make a difference and Send a Kid to Camp this holiday season! Our campaign will run now through December 21st.

With your support we will provide a safe, fun, thriving environment for more young people to explore the world around them, build confidence, develop life skills and make lasting friendships and memories.