SARATOGA SPRINGS –
Welcoming Week is a national celebration of new Americans. Taking place today through September 22, the Capital District and Saratoga Regional YMCAs join hundreds of YMCAs across the country in hosting events that celebrate immigrants’ contributions to our communities. Welcoming Week activities are free and open to the public. Activities include a variety of free class demonstrations, from Badminton classes to ping pong to seminars about nutrition to potluck dinners to henna demonstrations to bounce house fun for children.
“At the Capital District YMCA, we believe our community is stronger when everyone in the community feels welcome and we can all work together toward the common good,” said Capital District YMCA President and CEO David Brown. “Welcoming Week is an opportunity for immigrant and American-born neighbors to celebrate our shared values and our rich cultural diversity. We are proud to be a part of Welcoming Week, which demonstrates the value of bringing people of all backgrounds together to create stronger communities.”
“Welcoming Week is an opportunity for neighbors, both immigrants and U.S. born, to learn more about one another and to celebrate our different cultures. It’s also a time of education and connection in an effort to make our communities more vibrant and prosperous for all,” said Scott Clark, Vice President of Operations at the Saratoga Regional YMCA.
“These events are part of a powerful, growing movement in our country and around the world, demonstrating that communities want to be welcoming,” said Rachel Peric, Executive Director of Welcoming America. “Welcoming Week is a reminder of the resilient, inclusive spirit of American communities. Thousands of local leaders nationwide are bringing their communities together to build stronger local economies where everyone belongs.”
More events are being added as more community partners join Welcome Week, so check cdymca.org and srymca.org for the most up-to-date information.
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