East Orange YMCA - Y-Child (Past)

Y-Child (Past)

SHINE. ON.

WELCOME TO THE EAST ORANGE YMCA "Y-CHILD"

The EAST ORANGE YMCA "Y-CHILD" is a new and exciting endeavor from our branch that highlights children who are currently registered in our programs...our Y-Child!

Starting September 2011, a new child will be featured each month on our website through words, pictures and/or video on how that child is actively and postively growing and participating in our programs. It's a fresh and fun way to get our Y-families (parents, guardians, grandparents, God parents, siblings, friends, etc...) further involved and engaged in what their children are doing at our YMCA and a great way for them to brag about their little or not so little one(s).

Please see our main Programs-Y-Child page for the most current child.

OUR Y-CHILD FOR MARCH 2012

JEREMIAH

We are always excited when parents show their children so much support...even with the little BIG things like this Y-Child feature. Jeremiah's mother was overwhelming forthcoming answering the questions we asked her, so let's jump right in...

What did you notice about Jeremiah at an early age that is still true to this day and give an example of that trait (i.e. outgoing, shy, loving, artistic, good at math, an entertainer, busy, likes to help people, etc...)?

Jeremiah has always been a loving child; kind and friendly to everyone with a gentle spirit. He's very fun loving and has an infectious personality that everyone who encounters him falls in love with.

How long has Jeremiah attended the EAST ORANGE YMCA, what has he participated in and why is it important to you that he continues?

Jeremiah has attended the After School Program since the 2009-10 school year when he entered in PreK. Although a financial burden at times, the sacrifice is worth it when I see the happiness and good times he experiences there and the great relationships he has with the YMCA staff.

Of the four Y values - caring, honesty, respect and responsibility - which one best describes Jeremiah and why?

All four describe my child! There is an expectation set to live these traits everyday. I take parenting very seriously and have goals to achieve and values to instill in Jeremiah, so when the time comes he will be a walking testimony of great character, have the values of manhood and a bright future because of it.

Who is Jeremiah's favorite person at the EAST ORANGE YMCA and why? Who is your favorite person and why?

Jeremiah's favorite person is Ms. Ashley although they all have taken great interest in him and he is excited about being connected to all of them. I cannot choose. I think very highly of them all. There is a genuine goodness about them and they are the best staff the entire YMCA has and I have encountered many.

Please share a moment with us when you were at the EAST ORANGE YMCA with Jeremiah and it made you laugh, cry for joy, happy or proud.

I am very proud of the Multi Cultural dinner at the After School Program site organized during the Thanksgiving season. It shows that people are still willing to go beyond the norm for our children to create memories. It was a very proud moment from start to finish.

The Y is for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. How has the EAST ORANGE YMCA demonstrated these areas of focus for Jeremiah?

I often find the staff taking time to discuss with the children good character development, being a nice friend and not accepting anything, but making sure they understand the why of it all.

What's something that Jeremiah immediately talks about when he leaves the EAST ORANGE YMCA Program for the day?

Going outside often! I am a single mother who works a full-time very demanding job, therefore on nice days it's refreshing to know Jeremiah enjoyed playing outside when I may have been too tired to take him myself. He loves the outdoors, jungle gym and playing with the other children.

Anything else you'd like to share?

Ms. Ashley and Ms. Rakiyyah have exceeded my expectation as "staff" for the After School Program site. These young people are invested in educating, caring for and doing what is right for children. Jeremiah is very blessed to have them be a part of his life, as am I because I am at ease and comfortable everyday he attends!

OUR Y-CHILD FOR FEBRUARY 2012

IYANNA

"Iyanna used to be very shy, but thanks to the East Orange YMCA she's not shy anymore." - Mrs. Shell (Iyanna's mother)

It's really wonderful to be a part of something positive and we're so happy that our YMCA environment could help Iyanna blossom a little more then she has already.

We asked Mommy a few questions about their experience with us...

Of the four Y values - caring, honesty, respect and responsibility - which one best describes Iyanna and why?

The best one that describes Iyanna is caring. She likes to help everyone. If someone is crying or hurt, she always asks if they're ok.

Who is Iyanna's favorite person at the EAST ORANGE YMCA and why? Who is your favorite person and why?

Mr. Merv is my child's favorite and he's also mine. He's taught both of my children, so I'm very pleased.

What is Iyanna's favorite activity at the EAST ORANGE YMCA?

Iyanna loves playing in the computer lab.

How long has Iyanna attended the EAST ORANGE YMCA, what has she participated in and why is it important to you that she continues?Iyanna has attended since she was 3 years old and she's participated in the gymnastics program. It's important that she continues because the programs teach her to listen better.

The Y is for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. How has the EAST ORANGE YMCA demonstrated these areas of focus for your child?

Iyanna's social skills with her peers has really developed.

Anything else you'd like to share?

The Y is like family and I love it there.

Iyanna Johnson bumble bees 11 138 polaroid comp

Sharon Parker, our Childcare Director, wants you to know:

"The first year Iyanna started, she was very quiet. She explored in all the learning labs and played with other children, but she was still very shy. This year, she blossomed into a talkative, eager student who really takes control of her class. She helps the younger children and guides the other children with what to do. Iyanna always greets me with a smile and a wave whenever I visit the Bumble Bee class. That always makes my day!"

OUR Y-CHILD FOR DECEMBER 2011

KENDRICK

Kendrick has attended Pre-School at the EAST ORANGE YMCA since September 2010. As you can tell from the photo he is a very honorable child. Mommy says "he understands that he is a very fortunate kid and is concerned when he encounters a child less fortunate. He is always willing to share."

We asked Mommy and Kendrick about the time they've spent with us so far...

Of the four Y values - caring, honesty, respect and responsibility - which one best describes your child and why?

Kendrick exemplifies honesty. He is always willing to tell the truth even to his detriment. Most days he tells on himself when a behavorial problem exists.

What did you notice about your child at an early age that is still true to this day and give an example of those traits (i.e. outgoing, shy, loving, artistic, good at math, entertainer, busy, likes to help people, etc...)?

Kendrick has always been very independent and very much a self-starter from walking at eight months to always wanting to try things before asking for help. He hasn't met an obstacle that he believes he can't conquer.

From the time your child started at the EAST ORANGE YMCA through today, what positive changes have you noticed in your child that you contribute to her being with us and how has that impacted her home and/or school life?

Being an only child, Kendrick has become more caring and giving since attending the Y. I have noticed that while he still wants to always be first, he is willing to give in to the next child.

Who is/was your favorite person at the EAST ORANGE YMCA and why?

"Mrs. Alston because she keeps me intelligent, Ms. Thais because she teaches when Mrs. Alston is absent and we both like the Cowboys and Ms. Shakira becasue she rewards me for being good." - Kendrick

Please share a moment when you were at the EAST ORANGE YMCA and it made you laugh, cry for joy or proud.

Every Tuesday at swim class I am proud watching him navigate his way through the waters and seeing the progress from week to week.

Anything else you'd like to share?

As a parent, I am very proud of the progress Kendrick has made socially while attending the Y. I am more then impressed with his educational progress and the Y's willingness to work with the parents in the child's success.

Sharon Parker, our Childcare Director, wants you to know:

"Kendrick began his Pre-School experience at the East Orange YMCA in September 2010. He is very opinionated and independent. He is creative, knowledgeable and very smart for his age. I have witnessed Kendrick display many acts of kindness with all the children. On several occasions I have called Kendrick the "Mayor of the Crayola Kids" becasue he has has to know everything that goes on in his class. Every morning I have to speak to Kendrick because he has to be the line leader when his class is ready to go downstairs. Kendrick is a great communicator and a pleasure to watch grow and develop."

OUR Y-CHILD FOR NOVEMBER 2011

NIECEY

Niecey has been a member of the EAST ORANGE YMCA for 2 years since the first grade. We're very proud of her for receiving an Honor Roll Certificate from her school this past school year.

We asked her mother a few questions about Niecey since she's been with us...

The Y is for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. How has the EAST ORANGE YMCA demonstrated these areas of focus for your child?

The After School Program's schedule helps a lot with this. Niecey and the children have time to do homework, learn, play and socialize.

What did you notice about your child at an early age that is still true to this day and give an example of those traits (i.e. outgoing, shy, loving, artistic, good at math, entertainer, busy, likes to help people, etc...)?

My child has always been friendly, loving and loves to help. She was always a reader, good at math and artisitc. She can be shy at times.

From the time your child started at the EAST ORANGE YMCA through today, what positive changes have you noticed in your child that you contribute to her being with us and how has that impacted her home and/or school life?

Niecey is growing up to be more respectful and responsible. She shares more and gets along with others, which is great being that she is an only child.

Who is/was your favorite person at the EAST ORANGE YMCA and why?

Neicey likes Miss Rhonda because she is nice and she also like Miss D because she is kind and gentle. I admire everyone for their hardwork and determination and respect.

Please share a moment when you were at the EAST ORANGE YMCA and it made you laugh, cry for joy or proud.

It's always when the Counselors or Directors approach me and say "your daughter is so nice and respectful. She is no bother and she is always welcomed here anytime."

Rhonda Singleton, our On-site After School Program Director, wants you to know:

"Niecey Caesar is a wonderful addition to our After School Program here at the East Orange YMCA. Niecey exemplifies the Y's Four Core Values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility. She excels in school and is committed to complete her homework assignments before engaging in all of the enriching activities we offer. She is a joy to work with and I am certain that she will attribute greatly to our society in the near future."

OUR Y-CHILD FOR OCTOBER 2011

EMANI

Emani was camera shy, but believe us she is a beautiful young lady inside and out! She has been on our gymnastics team for 4 years and also our cheerleading team, so you know she has a lot of spark! We asked her mother a few questions about her...

What did you notice about your child at an early age that is still true to this day and give an example of those traits (i.e. outgoing, shy, loving, artistic, good at math, entertainer, busy, likes to help people, etc...)?

Emani loves to help others and is very shy when she first meets people.

Who is your child's favorite person at the EAST ORANGE YMCA and why? Who is your favorite person and why?

Ebony is Emani's favorite person at the Y. She is her coach and she really looks up to her. My favorite person is Bettie Jones. Mrs. Jones has helped me and my family on many occasions. She genuinely cares about the kids.

Please share a moment with us when you were at the EAST ORANGE YMCA and it made you laugh, cry for joy, happy or proud.

Seeing the progress of Emani's gymnastics ability gives me all of these emotions. To see her compete and place at almost all meets makes me proud. I only hope one day she can go to the Olympics and get a scholarship to college.

Of the four Y core values - caring, honesty, respect and responsibility - which one best describes you and why?

Responsibility. Emani has always been very responsible and independent. She keeps things in order and takes ownership.

OUR Y-CHILD FOR SEPTEMBER 2011

TATIANA

For our first Y-Child, we asked the child herself some questions, although now she is a teenager. Tatiana has been participating in our programs since she was 6, including After School and camp, so we are proud and excited that she volunteered this summer with Camp Discovery counseling our preschoolers.

What is your favorite activity at the EAST ORANGE YMCA?

Growing up, my favorite activity at the YMCA was playing kickball and doing arts and crafts with my age group.

What did you notice about yourself at an early age that is still true to this day and give an example of those traits (i.e. outgoing, shy, loving, artistic, good at math, entertainer, busy, likes to help people, etc...)?

A trait that I've always had and will always describe me is that I love to help people out and to make them feel better and lend a helping hand. To also communicate with others and participate.

Please share a moment with us when you were at the EAST ORANGE YMCA and it made you laugh, cry for joy, happy or proud.

Every year at the end of summer would make me a little sad because I had to leave the friends I recently met and when I turned 15 and had to stop being a part of the program, but then I started volunteering, which makes me happy.

Of the four Y core values - caring, honesty, respect and responsibility - which one best describes you and why?

I feel that "respect" describes me the most because wherever I go I try to display this act of courtesy with whomever and I carry this around at all times.

Please share a comment and/or testimony.

The YMCA has always been a major part of my life. It was like a second home for me. I've met longlasting friends here and I have learned a lot. I'm more then happy to be a part of the Y-Family.

Sharon Parker, our Child Care Director, wants you to know:

"I have the pleasure of watching Tatiana grow and develop from a young girl to a respectable teenager while she participated in many past gym programs - After School and Summer Camps. This summer, Tatiana volunteered with Camp Discovery, assisting the preschool children. She modeled the four core values, while working with the children and staff. I am very proud of Tatiana."

For more information:

EAST ORANGE YMCA Main Building

100 North Arlington Avenue

East Orange, NJ 07017

P 973 673 5588

F 973 673 6415

www.eastorangeymca.org

eoymca@metroymcas.org