Get a Jumpstart on Summer Adventures

The YMCA of Greater Monmouth County invites area children and families to Healthy Kids Day, a free and fun-filled event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday April 26, at Camp Zehnder in Wall Township.

The Y’s signature annual event is open to all and will feature kid-friendly activities, including a Fishing Derby, and a chance for families to explore summer possibilities at the 140-acre day camp where kids ages 3 to 15 enjoy outdoor adventures, build friendships, and learn new skills.

“The Y knows that keeping kids moving and learning during the summer months is key to avoiding the learning dip known as the ‘summer slide,’” said Laurie Goganzer, president and CEO of the YMCA Greater Monmouth County and the Ocean County YMCA.

“Research shows that students benefit from quality summer experiences and extended learning, especially children in less-served communities who often lack the resources to continue their development when school is out,” Goganzer said. “Healthy Kids Day helps families take the first step toward shaping a summer filled with growth, discovery, and making new friends.”

On Healthy Kids Day, kids can dive into engaging games like Gaga, get creative with nature crafts, plant veggies to take home, and explore the expansive camp alongside their parents. The Fishing Derby will take place at the camp pond where young anglers can cast a line and enjoy some outdoor excitement. Fishing gear will be provided.

Families can also register for the summer day camp on Healthy Kids Day and enter a drawing to win a free week of camp. Summer camp kicks off June 23 and runs through August 29, with weekly themed adventures like Space Odyssey, Home on the Range, and Camp Olympics. Extended care will be available, making it easy and convenient for families all season long.

Camp Director Karen Little emphasized that YMCA summer camp and all Y programs are open to everyone. As a charitable organization, the Y offers financial assistance on a sliding scale that reflects each family’s individual needs.

“YMCA summer camps are designed to nurture the potential of every child and help all kids grow in confidence,” Little said. “We encourage all area families to come out to Camp Zehnder on Healthy Kids Day to play, learn, and plan for a summer of fun and connection.”

Camp Zehnder, located at 3911 Herbertsville Road, is accredited by the American Camp Association, Little added.

Healthy Kids Day events will also take place on April 26, 10 a.m.- 1 p.m., at the following YMCA of Greater Monmouth County locations:

• Freehold Family YMCA, 470 East Freehold Road, Freehold, 07728

• Old Bridge Family YMCA, 1 Mannino Park Drive, Old Bridge, 08857

• Red Bank Family YMCA, 166 Maple Ave., Red Bank, 07701

For more information on Healthy Kids Day visit YMCANJ.org.

About YMCA of Greater Monmouth County
For 150 years, YMCA of Greater Monmouth County has empowered youth, improved health, and fostered connections that unite and uplift the community. Serving 42,000 people annually, we’ve provided over $5 million in financial assistance in the last five years. With locations in eight communities and programs integrated into more than 100 schools across Monmouth and Ocean counties, we are dedicated to strengthening communities. Named a New Jersey Top Workplace for three consecutive years by NJ Advance Media, we’re based in Shrewsbury, NJ. Learn more at www.ymcanj.org.