‘A great day to be a kid’

As the wellness director here at the South Orange Family Y, I would love to give a huge “shout out” to all the Y staff, and other volunteers who stepped up and contributed to the grand success of our first community “Healthy Kids Day” held on April 28.

Thank you to personal trainer Ronaldo Robledo for offering fire safety awareness information and to the Monroe Fire Department (Matt and Matt) for letting the kids try on the firefighter suits and hats.

Thank you to Ana Deleon and Kristi Wickes, who taught the kids how to do their resting heart rate and target heart rates.

Thank you to Richard Papaleo, who held a fun “physical education contest” complete with prizes.

Thank you to Danielle Lions, who taught children’s yoga while Lauren Alberti finished up with children’s Zumba.

Thank you to Officer Steve Dunn of the Village of Monroe Police Department, who headed up our outdoor “Bicycle Rodeo,” while other volunteers did children’s fingerprinting, tinsel hair extensions and blood pressure screenings. The kids (and their parents) even had great snacks like whole wheat cream cheese and jelly wraps and giant fruit kebobs.

And thank you to our youth center team, who headed up kickball, dodge ball, and flag tag, while other kids creatively enjoyed “make and take” crafts.

Our friendly front desk staff helped keep everyone organized and well-informed throughout the event.

Thank you team for making our special day so great to be a kid! What a Y!

I encourage everyone who is not yet a member to learn about all the good things the Y offers the community and to consider become part of our family.

Michele Bernieri Wellness Director

South Orange Family YMCA