Gleason Family YMCA shines bright with walk/run
Christmas has passed, but the holiday spirit blazes on, as the Gleason Family YMCA held its second annual “Snowy Night, Bright Lights,” event for its Annual Support Campaign.
The Y’s campaign creates scholarships for memberships, child care, camp experiences and youth and adult programs.
The Y, on Dec. 27 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., invited both members and non-members to indulge in the best of holiday traditions. With a $15 registration fee toward the campaign, people of all ages could view Christmas lights and candles which decorated the trees and trail.
Glowing milk carton luminaries lit the outdoor track, leading to a bonfire with s’more kits and carolers.
“The YMCA is full of opportunities that are awesome,” shared Georgi Battaglia, 13-year-old caroler and YMCA camper.
“Yeah, the Y is where it’s at,” agreed friend of Battaglia, Lauren Silva, of Wareham.
“It’s one of our many events where the money comes in and goes right out to the community to people who require financial assistance at the YMCA,” said Danielle Gilmore, aquatic coordinator.
Gilmore was in charge of organizing the carolers, music and songbooks for the singing around the fire. “It’s a fun event to spend time with friends and utilize our camp space in the winter.”
Mel Dyer, aquatic director, “dreamed it up in a night,” as Gilmore explained.
“She is a very creative, artistic person and dedicated quite a few weeks setting up decorations with Keith Estes (facility director) and staff volunteers,” Dyer said.
JoAnn Watson, special events coordinator, helped to transform this idea into something tangible.
“People had a good time tonight,” stated Watson. “We want this to grow and become a signature event for the Gleason YMCA that family and friends can look forward to every year.”
Watson shared that the Y is thinking of having “Snowy Night, Bright Lights,” before Christmas next year, with Santa and Mrs. Claus as part of the event.
Donated refreshments were served, including popcorn, chili, corn bread, muffins and hot chocolate. Goodie bags containing jingle bells, glow bracelets and an event T-shirt were also given out.
Pets were welcomed as well and were given treats. Every gift and feature was donated, ensuring that all of the money from the event would go directly to the fund.