IN THE PRESS

06880:Roundup: YMCA’s Bedford Fund $$

“When Ruth Bedford died in 2014, at 99, the last surviving grandchild of Westport Weston Family YMCA founder Edward T. Bedford left the organization a giant — and unexpected — $40 million bequest.”

December 15, 2024: Dan Woog Article:Roundup:YMCA’s Bedford Fund $$, Veterans Wreaths…
December 17, 2024: Westport Journal: YMCA’s Bedford Fund awards $315k to education nonprofits

06880:Roundup: Jingle Bell Jamboree, at the Y.

“You may be tired of hearing “Jingle Bells” (and/or “Jingle Bell Rock”) everywhere you turn. But the Westport Weston Family Y’MCA’s Jingle Bells Jamboree is well worth checking out. The Saturday, December 14 family event (5:30 to 7 p.m.) includes ornament decorating, face painting, a bouncy house, and a bus ride/light show to the “North Pole” (Mahackeno Outdoor Center).”

December 6, 2024: Dan Woog Article:Roundup: Tree Lighting, Holiday Giving, Wreath Sale…
December 11, 2024: Westport Journal: YMCA Invites Families to Mingle at ‘Jingle Bells Jamboree’

06880:Roundup: Westport Weston Family YMCA: 10 years old!

“Today (Saturday, 11 a.m to 1 p.m.), the Westport Weston Family YMCA celebrates its 10th anniversary of the Bedford Family Center at its Mahackeno site. The family event includes bounce houses, crafts, live entertainment with a magician, refreshments including birthday cake, and giveaways.”

06880:Roundup: Paulie’s Push, Paralympics, Jim 2024Himes…

“Matthew Torres — the longtime Westport Weston Family YMCA Water Rat swim team member — finished 5th in the 400 meter freestyle yesterday, at the 2024 Paralympic Summer Games in Paris. ”

How New Habits and Medicine Can Help Westporters Lose Weight

“Balanced nutrition provides essential benefits for your overall health, while regular exercise improves your cardiovascular health. Managing your weight improves insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health. Start small and make gradual adjustments when incorporating lifestyle changes. Westporters looking to enhance their exercise routine can take advantage of the Westport Weston Family YMCA.”

Westport YMCA Swimmer to Compete in Paris Paralympics

“Matthew Torres, who has been a member of the local swim team since he was 13, won a bronze medal in the 400-meter freestyle at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics and is poised to compete for Team USA in the same event at the 2024 Paris games, which run Aug. 28 through Sept. 8.”

06880:Roundup:WWFY Celebrates 100th Annual Meeting

“The Westport Weston Family YMCA marked its 100th annual meeting last week with a number of awards. Honorees included Diane Dubovy Benke (Lee J. Edelstein Volunteer of the Year0; Robin Tauck (Legacy & Impact Award), and Kate Murray and Andrew Berkowitz (Youths of he Year).”

06880:Roundup: Y Cap, Y Swim…

“When the Westport Weston Family YMCA received permits for its new facility off Wilton Road, town officials insisted on certain restrictions. One was a Planning & Zoning Commission limit of 12,500 members. The Y has now reached that limit. They’ll institute a waitlist.”

06880: Slam Dunk: PAL, Y Join Youth Basketball Forces

“Westport PAL and the Westport Weston Family Y announced this week that their 2 travel basketball programs, for 3rd through 8th graders, are joining forces. There will be 20 teams, overall. Both program logos will be on the uniforms.”

8th Annual Golf Tournament Raises Funds for the Y’s Financial Assistance Program

“The 8th Annual Golf Tournament hosted by the Westport Weston Family YMCA (WWFY) was a resounding success, drawing a record number of participants and supporters to the picturesque Aspetuck Valley Country Club on May 20, 2024. This year’s event saw over 100 golfers and guests come together for a day of fun and philanthropy, in support of making YMCA programming more accessible to all.”

‘Pollinator’ non-profit networking hosted at Westport Weston Family YMCA

“The “Pollinator” luncheon, an event designed to promote networking among local nonprofits, will be hosted June 4 by the Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund of the Westport Weston Family YMCA. This inaugural program will take place at noon Tuesday, June 4, in the YMCA, 14 Allen Raymond Lane.”

06880: The Westport Weston Family YMCA is all about health for all — especially youth.

“Part of a national Y program, Healthy Kids Day highlights the importance of nutritious eating, physical activity, mental resilience, and developing lifelong healthy habits. The event includes mini-classes, food trucks with healthy options, a bounce house, water safety demonstrations, and community vendors and partners.”

YMCA Seeks to Expand Outdoor Summer Camp Offerings

“John Fallon, a Fairfield lawyer representing the Y, has filed a special permit/site plan application with the Planning and Zoning Commission “with regard to modest upgrades and enhancements to our Mahackeno campus in anticipation of the start of the 2024 summer camp season.” The application seeks to add features for summer campers, from June through August, on its grounds.”

Tickets on Sale for YMCA’S Golf Tourney

“Ticket sales are teeing up for the 8th annual golf tournament sponsored May 20 by the Westport Weston Family YMCA. The fundraising event will take place, starting at 10 a.m. Monday, May 20, at the Aspetuck Valley Country Club in Weston.”

A Lesson in Resiliency – Meet Evelyn, the 2023 Race4Chase Sportsmanship Award recipient from Westport Weston Family YMCA

“What does resiliency look like as an 8-year-old? At the Westport Weston Family YMCA, it looks like Evelyn Sullivan. Evelyn was a leading participant in the 2023 Race4Chase (R4C) triathlon training program at the Westport Weston Family YMCA (WWFY). Sponsored by the CMAK Foundation, R4C honors Chase Michael Anthony Kowalski, who tragically lost his life in Sandy Hook.”

06880: WWFY Launches LIVESTRONG session this Winter.

“Cancer takes an emotional as well as physical toll. Livestrong is a national program that helps cancer patients rebuild cardiovascular endurance and muscle strength, increase flexibility, and improve confidence and self-esteem, in a supportive, small group setting.”

Y’s Bedford Fund: Ruth’s Gift Keeps On Giving

“The Bedford family is the gift that keeps on giving. In 1923, Edward T. Bedford endowed and built the YMCA downtown. In 1944 his son, Frederick T. Bedford, provided the funding to buy Camp Mahackeno, on Wilton Road.”

“Pizza with Santa, a hearty helping of holiday fun!”

“Pizza with Santa” is a popular slice of holiday fun served up annually at the Westport Weston Family YMCA. This year was no exception, as more than  140 youngsters and adults turned out Saturday to share some pizza, games and, of course, a chance to meet Old St. Nick and pose for photos.”

Westport Weston Family Y Special Olympics Participants.

“For many years, the Westport Weston Family Y has opened its doors and programs to the special needs community. This winter, the Y expand its programming, and reestablishes its partnership with Special Olympics Connecticut.”

Documentary Sparks Discussion of Healthy Longevity.

“What can a water aerobics class teach us about living a long and meaningful life? A lot, it turns out. A new documentary short film called Below Surface tells the story of one such class at a Connecticut YMCA where older participants join for physical fitness but keep coming back for the friendships and sense of community.”

“We Make it Home When We Are Here.” Connecticut Netball Looks to Promote Sport.

“A group of netball players in Westport is hoping to promote their sport. Connecticut Netball practices every Wednesday night at the Westport-Weston Family YMCA.”

“06880” Podcast with Anjali McCormick

“When Anjali McCormick took over as Westport Weston Family YMCA CEO, the pandemic was still in full swing…”
September 6, 2023: Dan Woog Podcast: Anjali McCormick

Kick Your Heels Up at the Y’s Centennial ‘Sneaker Ball’

“To celebrate its 100th birthday, the Westport Weston Family YMCA is putting its best, sneaker-shod foot forward..”
August 17, 2023: Westport Journal: Kick Your Heels Up…

Parkison’s Boxing & Conditioning Gets a Slogan, ‘Knock Parkinson’s Out’

“A year ago, Bob Levy and his wife Doree joined the Westport Weston Family YMCA. They swim up to 5 times a week, and love it: the welcome at the front desk, the lifeguards, all the staff.”
August 16, 2023: Dan Woog Article: YMCA Boxing

The Best Summer Ever, Camp Mahackeno 2023

“Charlie Taylor’s recent ode to Camp Mahackeno reminded readers of the long-time summer institution in the woods off Wilton Road. The Westport Weston Family YMCA has run programs there for over 70 years.”
July 29, 2023: Dan Woog Article: Camp Mahackeno Gallery
July 21, 2023: Dan Woog Article: Mahackeno Memories

WWFY Announces Byron Knox Named Full-Time Director of Gymnastics, Effective June 19, 2023

“A former USA National Team gymnast himself, Mr. Knox brings over 40 years of competition, coaching and program development experience, at both the collegiate and club levels. ”
June 17, 2023: Dan Woog Article: Byron Knox
June 13, 2023: Press Release

WWFY to Co-Host “In Conversation with Chris Paul” Event at Westport Library

“The basketball (and State Farm) star will discuss his life — and his new memoir “61: Life Lessons from Papa, On and Off the Court,” an ode to his grandfather and family — with journalist, FOX Sports anchor and Westport resident Lindsay Czarniak.”
June 16, 2023: Dan Woog Article: Chris Paul Event

Registration Open for Point-to-Point Compo Beach Swim

“Registration is open for the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s annual Point to Point Compo Beach swim (July 16, 7:30 a.m.). The annual open water race raises funds to benefit aquatics safety at the Y, through swim lessons for children and adults.”
June 11, 2023: Dan Woog Article: Point to Point

Ashlee Grieb’s Cool Cardio Dance Jam

“If you like music and dancing, this is for you,” Ashlee says. “We laugh a lot. We have so much fun. Newcomers are welcomed in. “Not everyone feels comfortable dancing in front of others,” she acknowledges. “But it doesn’t matter. We foster a community of acceptance.
May 25, 2023: Dan Woog Article: Y Instructor Ashlee Grieb

The Westport Weston Family YMCA is Ready for their First Holi Color Festival

“This celebration unites people with different beliefs, cultural traditions and experiences in the vibrant colors of friendship, renewal and acceptance. At the Y we believe in creating spaces where people of all backgrounds can come together, learn from one another, and build meaningful connections. We invite everyone to join us as we strengthen the bonds that make our community truly exceptional.”
June 4, 2023: Dan Woog Article: Holi Festival Recap
May 28, 2023: Westport Journal: Holi Color Festival
May 19, 2023: Dan Woog Article: Holi Festival

YMCA at 100″ a Changing Face, a Continuing Commitment

“The Westport Weston Family YMCA is an impressive organization not only because of its 100-year legacy as a dynamic community focal point.
But, over the course of a century, it has continually evolved into a place that meets the needs and interests of more than 1,000 people who check in daily for a far-reaching slate of activities and programs.”
May 8, 2023: Westport Journal

Robin Tauck Announces $100,000 Matching Challenge in Honor of the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s 100-year Anniversary

“For every dollar donated at $500 and above, Robin will match it with an equal contribution. The challenge will run through June 30. Funds raised will go towards new programs for seniors, adults, and youth that will improve health outcomes in each of these populations in the community.”
May 6, 2023: Dan Woog Article: Robin Tauck Matching Challenge
May 5, 2023: Patch: $100k Matching Challenge
May 5, 2023: Press Release

Westport Weston Family YMCA Hosts 100 for 100th Outdoor Yoga Event on May 11th to Benefit Financial Assistance Program

“Last year, because of generous contributions from donors and sponsors, we were able to provide over $446K in financial assistance to 600+ individuals and families in need giving them the opportunity to participate in programs they otherwise might not be able to, including summer camp and school-age childcare.”
April 29, 2023: Dan Woog Article: 100 for 100th Yoga Event
April 26, 2023: Press Release

From workouts to cancer groups, Westport Weston YMCA celebrates 100 years

“The Westport Weston Family YMCA is celebrating its 100th anniversary with a year’s worth of events and programs for the community to partake in.”
April 23, 2023: CT Insider (Hearst Connecticut Media Group)

Westport Weston Family YMCA Hosts Annual Healthy Kids Day to Encourage Active and Healthy Lifestyles for Children.

“We are thrilled to host our annual Healthy Kids Day and provide an opportunity for families to come together and learn about healthy living,”
April 24, 2023: Dan Woog Article: Healthy Kids Day
April 20, 2023: Press Release

Westport Weston Family YMCA Joins Five Days of Action to Protect Children from Sexual Abuse, April 24-28.

“By joining in the Five Days of Action campaign, we hope to inspire other organizations and members of our community to create safe spaces that protect children from sexual abuse.”
April 19, 2023: Dan Woog Article: Five Days of Action
April 18, 2023: Press Release

Water Rats Swim Team Videos

“The Westport Weston Family YMCA is branching out into video. They’re creating a series of shorts, highlighting their impact. The first 2 feature the Water Rats swim team.”
March 30, 2023: Dan Woog Article: Water Rats Videos

Diverse Abilities & Adaptive Fun For All

“The Westport Weston Family YMCA has long championed inclusivity for people with disabilities and other differences. This spring, they’ll run 4 great programs: Adaptive Gymnastics, Adaptive Yoga, Soccer Shots Empower and Adaptive Swim.”
March 18, 2023: Dan Woog Article: Adaptive Programs

Westport Weston Family YMCA Celebrates 100-Year Anniversary, Honors the Past & Looks to the Future

“This milestone 100th anniversary year, the WWFY invites members and the community to celebrate its rich history with a nostalgic look at the past, including engaging community activities and special events.”
March 18, 2023: Dan Woog Article: 100 Faces of the Y
Feb 24, 2023: Westport Journal: 100 Faces of the Y
Feb 23, 2023: Dan Woog Article: Share Your Y Story
Feb 27, 2023: Dan Woog Article: 100-yr. Kickoff
Feb 24, 2023: Press Release: 100-yr. Kickoff
Feb 23, 2023: Westport Journal: 100-yr. Kickoff

Westport Weston Family YMCA Board of Directors Seeking Candidates for Junior Director Positions

“The WWFY strives to provide leadership opportunities to empower youth to reach their full potential. Junior Board Directors enjoy full voting rights and participate actively in the governance process, including having the opportunity to share fresh ideas, learn from seasoned Directors who provide insight and perspective into non-profit management, and become aligned with the Y’s mission to strengthen community. The two-year term runs from June to June of each year.”
Feb 5, 2023: Westport Journal
Feb 2, 2023: Dan Woog Article
Feb 1, 2023: EINNews.com

Honoring Our 2022 Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund Grant Recipients

“The board of trustees established the Ruth Bedford Social Responsibility Fund. Its endowment supports grants to organizations that provide direct or supplemental educational opportunities in Fairfield County…the Y honored the 31 recipients for 2022.”
Dec. 2022: Dan Woog Article

New YMCA COO Champions Her Cause

“…as the Westport Weston Family YMCA’s new chief operating officer, she can combine her love of sports, her appreciation for the community, and her MBA-honed business acumen, to manage the organization’s operations as effectively and efficiently as possible.”
November 3, 2022: Dan Woog Article

WWFY Lauded by Westport Journal Over Point to Point

“It’s an amazing community event…”  “The Y is all about community.”
June 10, 2022: Westport Journal

WWFY Point to Point Open Water Swim Rising the Tides

The Westport Weston Family YMCA’s Point-to-Point Compo Beach Charity Open Water Swim, one of Westport’s longest running sporting events, will take place on Sunday, July 10 from 7AM-11AM. The 43rd annual charity swim covers a 1 mile distance and kicks off near the Compo Beach cannons. All proceeds go to the Y’s aquatics programs to improve aquatics safety in the community, including swim lessons that teach children and adults essential lifesaving water safety skills that build confidence in and around water and help to minimize the risk of drowning.
July 7, 2022: Dan Woog Article
July 5, 2022: Westport Journal
June 30, 2022: EINnews.com
June 27, 2022: Press Release

WWFY to Award 15 Needs-Based Lifeguard Certification Scholarships

WWFY has received funding to award 15, needs-based, Lifeguard Certification Scholarships leading up to the Summer season. These scholarships allow us to reach underserved young adults (ages 15-23) in Lower Fairfield County, and give them access to transformational opportunities and experiences to learn new skills, meet new people, and find purpose in gainful employment.
May 5, 2022: Press Release
May 5, 2022: EINnews.com
May 5, 2022: Westport Journal

WWFY Aqua Fit Group Raises Awareness for Veterans’ Groups

Throughout May, the Aqua Fit group is sponsoring a donation box with “Wish List”, in the Y lobby and hosting a ‘drop-in’ Aqua Fit class for $20 per person. Both collections support Homes for the Brave, a nonprofit helping homeless veterans.
May 2, 2022: DanWoog06880 Roundup

AAPI Festival to be held at WWFY on May 7, during ‘AAPI Heritage Month’

AAPI Westport, a group focusing on awareness of the Asian American Pacific Islander community, plans a series of AAPI Heritage Months events in May to highlight its mission. An AAPI Festival, featuring performances and food, will take place at the WWFY on May 7 from 2-4PM. 
April 28, 2022: DanWoog06880 Article
April 29, 2022: Westport Journal

Introducing LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA Program on May 9

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is a research based, free 12-week program that provides a safe, supportive environment for adults living with, through, and beyond cancer to participate in physical, educational, and social activities.
May 9, 2022: News12 TV Clip
May 6, 2022: newstimes.com Community News
May 6, 2022: ctinsider.com, Community News
April 28, 2022: Press Release
April 28, 2022: EINnews.com
April 27, 2022: DanWoog06880 Roundup

Y Member, Jane Laska’s Story of Ukraine, shared by Lindsay Czarniak

Lindsay Czarniak is a Fox Sports anchor and reporter, who shared a story of Jane Laska from the Ukraine. Ashlee Grieb, WWFY Cardio Dance Jam instructor developed choreography and played the song — “Good Evening, We Are From Ukraine” — as a way to support Jane. It was a special moment, for Ashlee and Jane. Click on the article below to see the video for yourself.
April 8, 2022: DanWoog06880 Roundup
April 8, 2022: Lindsay Czarniak Instagram Video, Over 13k Views

Dedication of the “Sally Silverstein Viewing Area”

Naming of the ‘Sally Silverstein Viewing Area’ to be held on March 4.
February 23, 2022: DanWoog06880 Unsung Hero #228 Article
February 25, 2022: Press Release
February 25, 2022: EINnews.com
March 1, 2022: DanWoog06880 RoundUp
March 7, 2022: Westport Journal by Jarett Liotta

Lunar New Year

AAPI held their Lunar New Year Celebration at our Y on Feb 5th.
February 5, 2022: Y News
February 5, 2022: Westport Journal
February 5, 2022: Westport News
February 5, 2020: AAPIwestport.com Event Photos

Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund 2021

At the BFSRF Awards Ceremony, $290,000 in grants were dispersed to 28 organizations in the Greater Fairfield County area whose programs focus on supporting equitable educational programs for students in our community.
January 15, 2022: Dan Woog LifeBridge Article
December 16, 2021: Press Release

Bedford Family Social Responsibility Fund Aids Nonprofits; Grant Application Deadline Approaches
September 8, 2021: Dan Woog Article