Join Us for Welcoming Week – September 13-22

At the Whatcom Family YMCA, we believe our community is stronger when everyone feels they belong. That's why we're excited to celebrate Welcoming Week from September 13-22! This is a chance for us to show our support for newcomers and everyone who calls our community home.

What is Welcoming Week?

Welcoming Week is a nationwide initiative that brings together newcomers and long-time residents to build connections and celebrate what unites us. It’s an opportunity to create a welcoming environment where all feel accepted and valued. At the Y, we’ve been supporting newcomers for over 170 years through various programs and services that promote integration, self-reliance, and community engagement.

Why We Celebrate Welcoming Week

• 13% of the U.S. population (over 40 million people) is foreign-born.
• 1 in 4 children under the age of 6 in the U.S. has a parent who was born outside the country.
• Welcoming Week is a time to honor the positive contributions of newcomers and the diversity that strengthens our community.

Join Our Celebration!

During Welcoming Week, we invite you to join us in celebrating the rich diversity of our community:

• $0 Join Fee Promotion: From now through September 22, we're offering a $0 Join Fee for new memberships. It's our way of encouraging newcomers to become part of our Y family.
• Welcoming Wall: We’re setting up a "Welcoming Wall" in our lobby where members can leave messages of support and inclusion. Stop by to fill out a "Welcomer" sign and share why you welcome newcomers to our community.
• Spread the Word: Use the hashtags #WelcomingWeek and #YforAll on social media to share your stories and show your support for a more inclusive world.

Together, We Create a Community for All

At the Whatcom Family YMCA, we strive to be a place where everyone feels safe, supported, and welcomed. Welcoming Week is a reminder that we are all neighbors, and our community is enriched by the diverse experiences and backgrounds of every individual.

Let’s come together to celebrate what makes our community vibrant and unique. Whether you're a newcomer or a longtime resident, you belong here at the Y.

Learn More and Get Involved

Visit us during Welcoming Week to find out more about our programs and how we support newcomers. We look forward to celebrating with you!

Happy Welcoming Week!