Dodge YMCA

Samantha Cruz's experience at YMCA Day Camps started when she was just 5 years old. Her journey comes full circle, as she now stands as the Camp Director of the Dodge YMCA.

The Y is perfect for my family. We all find different activities — swimming, weights, yoga — then meet up afterwards. What I love most about the Y is how it brings people together. New York City can be so rushed and noisy and anonymous. Not the Y. In the locker room, I have conversations with people I never would otherwise. With our country so divided, we need places like that.

Y members have formed countless, unique friendships at branches across the city. Employees take special interest in members’ well-being, while also forging meaningful friendships among themselves.

Many associate seniors at the Y with Silver Sneakers and water aerobics classes. But older adults at New York City’s YMCA participate in a wide array of activities, including dance parties, holiday potlucks, healthy living seminars, and more.